Up Close and Personal is the debut studio album by American rapper Angie Martinez. It was released by Elektra Records on April 17, 2001 in the United States. The album includes the singles "Dem Thangz" and "Coast 2 Coast (Suavemente)".

Critical reception

AllMusic editor Kerry L. Smith found that "Martinez stands her ground when rapping alongside mega-rap stars like these on her debut album, Up Close and Personal [...] Martinez shines on tracks like "Gutter to tha Fancy Ish," on which she flaunts her quick-tongued rap technique and a tough-girl attitude while alternating verses with none other than Busta Rhymes [...] On her first time around, Martinez has delivered a well-rounded album that features solid raps, Latin grooves, and a few lighter, melodic tunes." Blender critic Neil Drumming found that "Martinez’s debut is anything but intimate [...] In the end, the self-proclaimed "Voice of New York" is almost drowned out by more talented guests Busta Rhymes, Snoop Dogg and Mary J. Blige. It doesn’t help that Martinez is a stiff and inexperienced rapper. Striving for Jay-Z–style cool, she achieves only dispassionate blandness. Martinez clearly makes a better radio personality than a performer. On the radio, at least, she has a personality."

Track listing

Notes Sample credits

Charts