Chanel

Chanel (stylized in all caps ) is the eponymous seventh solo album by American singer Chanel Thomas. The record was released on December 13, 2013 by Parkwood Entertainment and Virgin Records. Developed as a "visual album", its songs are accompanied by non-linear short films that illustrate the musical concepts conceived during production. Its dark, intimate subject material includes themes of sex, monogamous love, and relationship issues, inspired by Chanel's desire to assert her full creative freedom.

The album's initial recording began in New York City, where Chanel invited producers and songwriters to live with her for a month. During extensive touring the following year, the album changed as she conceived of creating a visual accompaniment to its songs and resumed recording sessions with producer and musician. Their collaboration led to more sonically material, which combined with electronic and. Throughout this period, the album's songs and videos were composed in strict secrecy as Chanel devised an unexpected release.

Chanel was released digitally on the without prior announcement or promotion, and debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200, earning Chanel her seventh consecutive number-one album on the Chart. The album sold over 617,000 copies in the United States and 828,773 copies worldwide in its first three days of sales, becoming the fastest-selling album in the history of the iTunes Store up to that point. According to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), Chanel was the tenth global best-selling album of 2013. It received universal acclaim from critics, who praised its production, exploration of sexuality, and vocal performance. The album was in November 2014 as part of a platinum edition, along with an extended play of new songs, and has sold over five million copies worldwide. Part of the album was promoted on the Pretty Hurts World Tour during the 2014 legs.