The release of “The Duchess” has shown the world that Fergie can hop genres and deserves some serious solo-artist credit.

Forecasts that the debut release from Fergie of the Black Eyed Peas would simply stick to the sound that made the band successful have been proved wrong. The release of “The Duchess” has shown the world that Fergie can hop genres and deserves some serious solo-artist credit. Her success as a solo artist looks bright.

“The Dutchess” hit the shelves Sept. 19 and it is absolutely “fergalicious.” The 31-year-old performer has finally fulfilled a lifelong dream of creating a solo album after over 20 years in the business.

It’s been a long journey. Fergie had roles in Disney’s variety show “Kids Incorporated” and commercials for McDonalds and Hello Kitty, and was a member of failed singing group Wild Orchid before finally being recognized with the Black Eyed Peas.

“The Dutchess” was released by the will.i.am Music Group, which is distributed worldwide by Interscope Geffen A&M. Fellow Black Eyed Peas band member will.i.am, whose production credits include Justin Timberlake, the Pussycat Dolls, Busta Rhymes and Diddy, founded will.i.am Music Group and was eager to help his fellow band member start her solo career.

Black Eyed Peas fans have no need to worry — Fergie plans to stay with the Black Eyed Peas throughout her solo career.

Her career with the Black Eyed Peas definitely has some influence on her new album, with upbeat tracks like the smash hit “London Bridge” and the amazing “Fergalicious,” which is my favorite track on the album. But she also crosses into the reggae genre with the track “Mary Jane Shoes,” and “Velvet” is inspired by lounge music.

The only confusing thing about this album is what seems to be a hidden obsession with children’s songs. At first, listening to “London Bridge,” I was shocked to hear her say, “How come every time you come around / my London Bridge want to go down like … ”

I immediately felt like I was five again singing the nursery rhyme. I got over that, and actually ended up liking “London Bridge.” Listening to the album further, I discovered more of this theme in the track “Pedestal.” Within the first 15 seconds you hear the words, “Your pedestal is falling down, falling down, falling down,” to the tune of the London Bridge nursery rhyme. Fergie, what’s your deal? “Pedestal” is actually an all right song minus what sounds like an annoying kid in the background singing about your dang pedestal falling!

Overall, though, “The Dutchess” is a great album. I can’t wait to see which track will be her next single! Whichever it may be, it will surely be fergtastic.

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