Ten

Released in 2006, Ten marks a pivotal transition in Brian McKnight's career, being his first and only release for Warner Bros. Records following a long tenure at Motown. The album's title signifies his tenth project (including compilations) and reflects a self-described 'maturity and depth of honesty' inspired by his life following a divorce. Musically, the album sees McKnight collaborating with heavyweight producers like Tim & Bob and Bryan-Michael Cox, resulting in a sound that bridges the gap between classic 90s soul and the more rhythmic, polished R&B of the mid-2000s. A notable anomaly in his catalog is the track 'Red, White, and Blue,' featuring country stars Rascal Flatts, showcasing a rare crossover attempt. While the album saw a commercial decline compared to his multi-platinum peak, it was praised by critics at AllMusic and About.com for its rejuvenated energy and sophisticated songwriting, solidifying McKnight's status as an 'elder statesman' of the genre.