Barnes & Noble
Country-music fans couldn't believe their ears when LeAnn Rimes's debut, Blue, was released in 1996. Not only did her voice embody the spirit of Patsy Cline, but the singer was only 13 years old. The title tune was written specifically for Cline, who died in 1963 before getting the chance to cut it. Over the years the song was recorded unsuccessfully by various artists, but in Rimes's hands it became a thrilling throwback to country's golden era, complete with soulful wail and dead-on Cline-like yodel. It was truly one of the most memorable recordings in years. The rest of Blue features some of Rimes's better moments on record. "One Way Ticket (Because I Can)" shows her belting some meaty pop-rock, and "The Light in Your Eyes" proves she can croon a smooth pop ballad. Finally, she duets on Eddy Arnold's "Cattle Call" with Arnold himself -- a move that underscores her instant elevation to Major Player in contemporary country music. Bob Cannon
All Music Guide
With this fabulous record that brought joy and fun to all avid listeners of country music, LeAnn Rimes arrived just in the nick of time, when country needed it most, amidst all the regulars of the scene such as Garth Brooks, Holly Dunn, etc. The record is a delightful free-for-all of sassy pick-me-up country that spells GOLD in many sorts of ways. Of course, the sleeper hit is "Blue," Rimes' radio-friendly airplay single that landed her a Grammy at the tender young age of 15. "Blue" -- both the song and the record as a whole -- certainly should and does affect listeners in a charismatic and lighthearted way. At the time, since she was still a teen herself, this collection of songs meant so much to Rimes and her adoring fans; it inspired thousands of teens then and continues to inspire them through to this day. Perhaps people of any age or style of interest will feel youthful again after a good listen and a half. This record of songs written by the best songwriters in country music served as a stepping stone for Rimes, and was deservedly a breakthrough album for the country music scene. ~ Shawn M. Haney, All Music Guide