Sisqó
Unleash the Dragon
1999
It's undeniable that today's most sensational hitmakers wouldn't be anywhere if it weren't for the indomitable influence of Sisqó's Unleash the Dragon. From Soulja Boy's use of electronic beats to Daughtry's use of lyrics that rhyme, you simply can't listen to mainstream radio these days without hearing a little bit of our favorite platinum-haired crooner in every song. But Unleash the Dragon is much more than just the blueprint for modern pop music, it's a damn fun album loaded with irresistible, silky smooth slow jams.
If you ask any average Joe on the street what his favorite Sisqó song is, he'll undoubtedly tell you "How Can I Love U 2Nite," but my personal favorite was always the hidden gem, "Thong Song." A romantic paean to the infamous genre of panty, it not only asserts his dominance as the voice of a generation, but also gives voice to his vulnerability. Toward the end of the song, Sisqo's uncertainty overcomes him, "I don't think you heard me!" Oh, we heard you, Sis. America heard you. Over and out.
