Written by Banana on Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Christina MarĂa Aguilera (born December 18, 1980) is an American pop singer, songwriter and record producer. She was signed to RCA Records after recording "Reflection" for the film Mulan.
She came to prominence following her debut album Christina Aguilera (1999), which was a critical and commercial success. A Latin pop album Mi Reflejo, and a Christmas album, My Kind of Christmas, followed during this period and also sold very well.
After parting from her management, Aguilera took creative control over her second studio album Stripped (2002), which received mixed reviews and produced substantial sales.
The overtly sexual image Aguilera displayed during the promotion of the album became the subject of intense criticism and ridicule. The second single, "Beautiful" was of commercial success and sustained the album's sales.
Aguilera's third studio album Back to Basics (2006) included elements of soul, jazz, and blues music. Mainly produced by DJ Premier, it was released to strong sales and positive critical reception.
Aside from being known for her vocal ability, musically she includes themes of dealing with public scrutiny, her childhood, and female empowerment. Aguilera's work has earned her numerous awards including five Grammy Awards amongst eighteen nominations. She has sold 30 million albums worldwide.