I Forgive You is the second studio album by British singer-songwriter Cynthia Erivo. It was released on 6 June 2025, through Verve and Republic Records. Developed over two years in collaboration with songwriter and producer Will Wells, the album features various genres, such as pop, R&B, Brit pop, folk, and gospel. Recorded during breaks from filming Wicked (2024), Erivo described it as a collection of stories about forgiveness—both of others and herself—and journeys through love, heartbreak, and renewal.
Critically, I Forgive You has been praised for its thoughtful production, emotional honesty, and sophisticated exploration of themes rarely foregrounded for Black women in music, including sensuality and identity. Reviews highlighted Erivo's restrained vocal delivery and the album's blend of genres. Though noted for its ambitious length, the album's nuanced songwriting and raw expression have earned it acclaim as a significant artistic statement.
Background and development
With her 2021 debut, Ch. 1 Vs. 1, she felt it lacked cohesion and didn't fully showcase her vocal abilities.[1] Recorded during breaks from filming Wicked (2024), I Forgive You was described as "a collection of stories and songs that are both personal for things that are happening now, things that have happened in the past, and I think some of which I have had to forgive people for." Erivo added, "And honestly, some of which I've had to forgive myself for."[2] The album was developed over a period of more than two years, including collaborating with songwriter and producer Will Wells.[3] The second single, "Worst of Me", was released on 11 April 2025, following the lead single "Replay".[3][4][5] At a listening event in London, Erivo shared that I Forgive You reflects a desire to fully embrace and express all facets of herself, including her sensuality and sexuality; an aspect she noted is often overlooked, particularly for Black women. She cited artists like Toni Braxton and Prince as inspirations, referencing their bold exploration of such themes in music. During the event, she previewed several tracks from the album, including "Why", "More Than Twice", "Best for Me", "She Said", "I Choose Love", and "Brick by Brick".[6]
Composition
I Forgive You blends various genres such as pop,[7][8]R&B,[9][7][8]Brit pop,[7]folk,[10][7][8] and gospel.[10][7] Credited as a co-writer for each track,[3] Erivo experiments with vocal extremes and unconventional techniques, such as whistling, yodelling, and percussive sounds made with her fingernails.[11] She also explores themes of forgiveness and humanity, aiming to present a more vulnerable, authentic self.[12] Softer and more intimate than her past work, the album emphasises forgiveness and vulnerability.[13] According to a press release, it also "[traces] a personal, poetic and poignant journey through romance, heartbreak, love, forgiveness, rebirth and new beginnings".[5] The album's "sensual grooves and breathy vocals" reflect her return to soul influences like Marvin Gaye and Brandy.[13] Described by Erivo as more unified than her debut, the album aims to present a complete and honest self.[11]
Variety noted that while I Forgive You contains elements of contemporary R&B, its overall sound leans more toward a moody, Hozier-like aesthetic. The review also highlighted Erivo's restrained vocal delivery, diverging from expectations of theatrical belting.[9]Melodic Magazine praised the album's emotional honesty and thoughtful composition, describing it as a musically impressive work that explores love, pain, and resilience with refreshing sincerity.[15]Attitude described the album as a sonic reflection of Erivo's powerful presence and identity, praising its sophistication and emotional intensity, while noting its ambitious length as a minor drawback.[14]The Skinny praised I Forgive You as a bold blend of genres — from gospel and folk to pop and even yodelling — calling it a raw and expressive statement of intent that showcases Erivo's artistry beyond a vanity project.[10]
This page is based on this Wikipedia article Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply. Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.
