January Joy is the only studio album by American singer Mashonda. It was released on September 13, 2005 through Full Surface/J Records in Japan and Hong Kong. The recording sessions took place at Sound on Sound Studios, 36 Chambers Studios, Monza Studios, Sony Studios, The Hit Factory in New York City, at Unsung Studios in Sherman Oaks, at Powerhouse Studios in Yonkers, at Doppler Studios in Atlanta, and at Blakeslee Recording Co. in North Hollywood. Production was handled by Swizz Beatz, who also served as executive producer, DJ Scratch, Neo Da Matrix, Brian "All Day" Miller, Bryan-Michael Cox, Gerald Flowers, Harvey Allbangers, Jason Rome, Mike City, Mr. Devine, Raphael Saadiq, Reggie Flowers, The Buchanans and Victor Flowers, with co-producers Sean Garrett and Bryce Wilson. It features guest appearances from Jadakiss, Kanye West, Raphael Saadiq, Snoop Dogg and Nas.

Promotion

The album was supported with three singles — "Used To", "Back of da Club" and "Blackout", however the album and its singles were met with commercial failure. "Back of da Club" and "Blackout" made it to the US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, reaching No. 86 and 96, respectively.

Critical reception

Vibe editor Dimitri Ehrlich wrote about January Joy: "Sexiness [...] pervades her debut, from standout production to her near-orgasmic delivery [...] The album has its delicate moments, too [...] And while Mashonda may not shatter any glasses, she sings like a woman who’s comfortable in her skin."

Track listing