Ciara
{{Short description|American singer-songwriter (born 1985)}}
{{About|the American singer|the album|Ciara (album) {{!}}Ciara (album)|the given name|Ciara (given name)|other uses|Ciara (disambiguation)}}
{{Use American English|date=October 2024}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2024}}
{{Infobox person
| name = Ciara
| image = Russell Wilson and Ciara 2019 (Cropped - Ciara).png
| alt =
| caption = Ciara in 2019
| birth_name = Ciara Princess Harris
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1985|10|25}}
| birth_place = Fort Hood, Texas, U.S.
| education = Riverdale High School
| occupation = {{flatlist|
- Singer
- songwriter
- dancer
- actress
}}
| works = {{hlist|Discography|filmography}}
| years_active = 2001–present
| spouse = {{marriage|Russell Wilson|2016}}
| children = 4
| awards = Full list
| module = {{Infobox musical artist
| embed = yes
| origin = Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.
| genre = {{flatlist|
}}
| instrument = Vocals
| label = {{flatlist|
}}
| website = {{URL|officialciara.com}}
}}
{{Infobox
| child=yes
| header = Logo
| headerstyle = background:#b0c4de
| data1 = 150px}}
}}
Ciara Princess Wilson ({{IPAc-en|s|i|ˈ|ɛər|ə}} {{respell|see|AIR|ə}};{{cite book|last1=Olausson|first1=Lena|last2=Sangster|first2=Catherine|year=2006|title=Oxford BBC Guide to Pronunciation|publisher=Oxford University Press|page=73|isbn=0-19-280710-2}} {{née}} Harris; born October 25, 1985) is an American singer, songwriter, dancer and actress. She was discovered by record producer Jazze Pha in the early 2000s, and rose to prominence with her debut studio album, Goodies (2004). Its namesake lead single (featuring Petey Pablo) peaked atop the Billboard Hot 100, while the follow-ups, "1, 2 Step" (featuring Missy Elliott) and "Oh" (featuring Ludacris), both peaked at number two on the chart. The album received quadruple platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), and received two nominations at the 48th Annual Grammy Awards. Ciara also guest appeared on the 2005 singles "Lose Control" by Missy Elliott and "Like You" by Bow Wow, both of which peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100.
Her second studio album, Ciara: The Evolution (2006), topped the Billboard 200 and spawned three platinum-certified songs: the top ten single "Get Up" (featuring Chamillionaire) and the top 20 singles "Promise" and "Like a Boy." Ciara's third studio album, Fantasy Ride (2009), spawned top ten single "Love Sex Magic" (featuring Justin Timberlake), which was nominated for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals at the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards. Her fourth studio album, Basic Instinct (2010), spawned the top 50 single "Ride" (featuring Ludacris), but saw a steep commercial decline. She then signed with Epic Records to release her self-titled fifth album (2013), which peaked at number two on the Billboard 200 and spawned the double platinum single "Body Party". Her sixth album, Jackie (2015) spawned the platinum single "I Bet".
The following year, Ciara signed a modeling contract with IMG,{{cite web|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/ciara-has-signed-a-modeling-deal-with-img-news.21596.html?|title=Ciara signs deal with IMG Models|last=Smith|first=Trevor|date=May 13, 2016|website=Hotnewhiphop|access-date=May 13, 2016}} became a Global Brand Ambassador for the cosmetics company Revlon,{{cite web|url=http://people.com/style/ciara-is-revlons-new-ambassador-reveals-my-name-came-from-one-of-their-fragrances/|title=Ciara Is Revlon's New Ambassador, Reveals 'My Name Came From One of Their Fragrances'|last=Fields|first=Jackie|date=October 18, 2016|magazine=People|access-date=June 15, 2017}} and married quarterback Russell Wilson.{{cite web|last=Melas|first=Chloe|date=6 July 2016|title=It's official: Ciara and Russell Wilson get married|url=https://edition.cnn.com/2016/07/06/entertainment/ciara-russell-wilson-married/index.html|url-status=live|access-date=7 May 2021|website=CNN|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160706225655/http://edition.cnn.com/2016/07/06/entertainment/ciara-russell-wilson-married/index.html |archive-date=July 6, 2016 }} Her seventh album and first independent release, Beauty Marks (2019), entered the Billboard 200 and spawned the platinum single "Level Up". She signed with Uptown Records for the release of her first extended play, CiCi (2023).{{cite web|author=Jason Lipshutz |url=https://www.billboard.com/business/record-labels/ciara-republic-records-uptown-records-label-deal-new-single-jump-1235108466/ |title=Ciara Signs Label Deal With Republic, Uptown Records: Exclusive – Billboard |publisher=Billboard.com |date=2022-06-29 |accessdate=2022-06-30}} Her eighth studio album, also titled CiCi, is slated for a July 11, 2025 release; it is being preceded by the single "Ecstasy".
In her acting career, she has appeared in the films All You've Got (2006), Mama, I Want to Sing! (2012), That's My Boy (2012), and the television series
The Game (2013). Ciara starred in the 2023 remake of The Color Purple as Nettie.{{cite web|url=https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/greenlt-ciara-joins-the-color-purple-74925/|title='The Color Purple' Adds Ciara to Its All-Star Cast|website=Backstage|last=Steves|first=Ashley|date=March 31, 2022|access-date=October 3, 2022}} Ciara has received multiple accolades, including a Grammy Award, two BET Awards, the Woman of the Year award from Billboard Women in Music, two MTV Video Music Awards, eight Soul Train Awards, and fifteen Ascap Music Awards. As of 2019, Ciara has sold over 45 million records worldwide.{{cite press release |url=https://www.theamas.com/2019/11/just-announced-ciara-to-host-kesha-to-perform-at-amas/ |title=Just Announced: Ciara to Host & Kesha to Perform at AMAs |publisher=American Music Awards |date=November 14, 2019 |access-date=March 21, 2022}}
Early life
Ciara Princess Harris was born in Austin, Texas,{{Cite news|last=Baron|first=Zach|title=Russell Wilson & Ciara: The Superstar Couple In Pursuit of Perfection|url=https://www.gq.com/story/russell-wilson-ciara-march-modern-lovers-cover|access-date=February 11, 2021|website=GQ|date=February 11, 2021|language=en-us}}{{cite web |last= |first= |date= February 11, 2021|title=Ciara {{!}} Biography & History |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7dnI3btuvlM |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210211200004/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7dnI3btuvlM&gl=US&hl=en |archive-date=February 11, 2021 |access-date=February 12, 2021 |website=AllMusic}} on October 25, 1985,{{cite web |last=Jeffries |first=David |title=Ciara Biography |url=http://www.allmusic.com/artist/ciara-mn0000215513/biography |access-date=April 30, 2017 |publisher=AllMusic.com}}{{cite news |last=Ogunnaike |first=Lola |date=December 6, 2006 |title=One Name, Many Goals for a Driven R&B Star |newspaper=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/06/arts/music/06ciar.html?_r=1&oref=slogin |access-date=November 18, 2008}} the only child of Jackie and Carlton Clay Harris.{{cite web|url=http://www.biography.com/people/ciara-21330599|title=Ciara: Singer (1985–)|publisher=Biography.com (FYI / A&E Networks)|access-date=April 30, 2017}} An army brat, she grew up in Georgia, New York, Utah, California, Arizona, and Nevada.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/299324/ciara/biography|access-date=April 19, 2023|title=Ciara - Biography|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150331095219/https://www.billboard.com/artist/299324/ciara/biography |archive-date=March 31, 2015 }}{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/299324/ciara/biography|title=Ciara – Biography|magazine=Billboard|access-date=November 14, 2015}} She was named after the Revlon fragrance Ciara which was introduced in 1973.{{cite web|url=http://people.com/style/ciara-is-revlons-new-ambassador-reveals-my-name-came-from-one-of-their-fragrances/|title=Ciara Is Revlon's New Ambassador, Reveals 'My Name Came From One of Their Fragrances'|date=October 18, 2016|website=People|access-date=July 11, 2017}} During her teens, Ciara and her family settled in College Park, Georgia, a suburb of Atlanta, where she attended North Clayton High School before graduating from Riverdale.{{cite news |last1=Alexander |first1=Otis |title=Ciara/Ciara Princess Wilson (1985- ) |url=https://www.blackpast.org/african-american-history/ciara-1985/ |date=24 March 2022}}
In her mid-teens, Ciara formed the all-girl group Hearsay with two of her friends.{{who|date=January 2016}} The group recorded demos, but as time went on, they began to have differences and eventually parted ways. Despite this setback, Ciara signed a publishing deal as a songwriter.
Her first writing credit was on Blu Cantrell's debut album, So Blu, for the song "10,000 Times". She also wrote the song "Got Me Waiting" for R&B singer Fantasia Barrino's debut album, Free Yourself. It was when she was writing songs that she met music producer Jazze Pha, whom she called her "music soulmate". In 2002, the two recorded four demos: "1, 2 Step", "Thug Style", "Pick Up the Phone", and "Lookin' at You", which all appeared on her debut album that was released two years later. "1, 2 Step" was the second single released from the album and it was a hit.
Career
=2003–2005: ''Goodies''=
After graduating from Riverdale High School in Riverdale, Georgia, in 2003, she was signed by LaFace Records executive, L.A. Reid, whom she was introduced to by Jazze Pha.{{cite web|url=http://www.hitquarters.com/index.php3?page=intrview/opar/intrview_MarkPitts.html|title=Interview with Mark Pitts|publisher=HitQuarters|date=April 24, 2006|access-date=December 10, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024082039/http://www.hitquarters.com/index.php3?page=intrview/opar/intrview_MarkPitts.html|archive-date=October 24, 2012|url-status=dead}} She began production on her debut album later that year. In early 2004, she wrote a demo with record producer, Sean Garrett, which came to the attention of Lil Jon and became her debut single "Goodies". Lil Jon stated later that he knew it would be big seeing how it sounded similar to Usher's international hit, "Yeah!".
Ciara released her debut album Goodies on September 28, 2004. The album debuted at number three on the U.S. Billboard 200, selling 125,000 copies in its initial week{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1492000/20041006/duff_hilary.jhtml|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041026021514/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1492000/20041006/duff_hilary.jhtml|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 26, 2004|title=Hilary Duff Debuts at No. 2, Ciara Lands at No. 3 On Albums Chart|first=James|last=Montgomery|work=MTV News|publisher=MTV Networks (Viacom)|date=October 6, 2009|access-date=July 21, 2010}} and topped the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. Following the release of the album, Ciara was called the "First Lady of Crunk&B". Goodies had a 71-week run on the Billboard 200, and was certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America on October 10, 2006.[https://archive.today/20120913013050/http://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinumdata.php?resultpage=1&table=SEARCH_RESULTS&action=&title=&artist=Ciara&format=&debutLP=&category=&sex=&releaseDate=&requestNo=&type=&level=&label=&company=&certificationDate=&awardDescription=&catalogNo=&aSex=&rec_id=&charField=&gold=&platinum=&multiPlat=&level2=&certDate=&album=&id=&after=&before=&startMonth=1&endMonth=1&startYear=1958&endYear=2008&sort=Artist&perPage=25 RIAA Searchable Database – "Ciara"]. Recording Industry Association of America. Accessed May 21, 2008. Charting at twenty-two on the Canadian Albums Chart, it was certified Platinum by the Canadian Recording Industry Association.{{cite web|title=Database Search|work=Canadian Recording Industry Association|url=http://www.cria.ca/cert_db_search.php|access-date=July 29, 2007|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100501065534/http://www.cria.ca/cert_db_search.php|archive-date=May 1, 2010}} The album charted at 26 on the UK Albums Chart, and spent 20 weeks on the chart.{{cite web|url=http://www.bpi.co.uk/certifiedawards/search.aspx|title=Certified Awards|work=British Phonographic Industry|access-date=July 20, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090924015932/http://www.bpi.co.uk/certifiedawards/search.aspx|archive-date=September 24, 2009}} It was certified Gold by the British Phonographic Industry.{{cite web|url=https://www.bpi.co.uk/brit-certified/|website=British Phonographic Industry|access-date=May 25, 2022|title=BPI Goodies Certification}}
Goodies{{'}} lead single, the title track, featuring Petey Pablo, was released on June 8, 2004. Conceived as a crunk female counterpart to Usher's "Yeah!", the lyrical content goes against the grain, speaking of abstinence, rejecting advances because "the goodies will stay in the jar." Critics hailed it as an "anthem of the summer" and one of the best singles of the year, complimenting its dance-feel and beat, and the irony of the "clever" lyrics. The single performed well worldwide, topping the charts in Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom, and charting in the top 10 of other charts, receiving Platinum certification in the United States.{{cite web|url=http://www.ultratop.be/en/showinterpret.asp?interpret=Ciara|title=Discography Ciara|work=Ultratop.be|publisher=Hung Medien|access-date=July 22, 2007}}{{cite magazine|url={{BillboardURLbyName|artist=ciara|chart=all}}|title=Ciara Album & Chart History|magazine=Billboard|access-date=December 16, 2010}} "1, 2 Step" featuring Missy Elliott was released as the album's second single.{{cite web|url=http://gfa.radioandrecords.com/publishGFA/GFANextPage.asp?sDate=11/02/2004&Format=9|title=R&R :: Going For Adds :: Rhythmic|access-date=July 22, 2010|work=Radio & Records|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130526021237/http://gfa.radioandrecords.com/publishGFA/GFANextPage.asp?sDate=11%2F02%2F2004&Format=9|archive-date=May 26, 2013}} The song peaked in the top 10 of many countries, topping the charts in Canada, and went on to become Platinum or Gold in many countries. "Oh" featuring Ludacris was released as the third single on March 5, 2005. The song performed well worldwide, appearing in the top 10 of seven charts, and certified either Platinum or Gold in multiple regions.
Following the success of the album, Ciara released a CD/DVD entitled Goodies: The Videos & More in the United States on July 12, 2005, which featured remixes to "1, 2 Step" and "Oh", as well as two new songs. The release was certified platinum in the United States. She made guest appearances on Missy Elliott's single "Lose Control" and on Bow Wow's single "Like You", which both peaked at number three in the United States and obtained worldwide success. She was an opening act for Gwen Stefani's Harajuku Lovers Tour 2005 and went on tour with Chris Brown and Bow Wow on the Holiday Jam Tour in December 2005. At the 48th Annual Grammy Awards, Ciara received four nominations for Best New Artist, Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "1, 2 Step", Best Rap Song for Missy Elliott's single "Lose Control", and won her last nomination, Best Short Form Music Video for "Lose Control".{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/life/music/awards/grammys/2005-12-08-grammy-list-nominations_x.htm|title=Complete list of Grammy Award nominations|work=USA Today|date=August 8, 2005|access-date=July 21, 2010}}
=2006–2007: ''Ciara: The Evolution'' and acting debut=
On December 5, 2006, Ciara released her second studio album, Ciara: The Evolution. According to the singer, the title of the album is "about so much more than just my personal growth – it's about the evolution of music, the evolution of dance, the evolution of fashion."{{cite magazine|last=Hope|first=Clover|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/57003/ciara-previewing-evolution-on-tour|title=Ciara Previewing 'Evolution' On Tour|magazine=Billboard|date=October 10, 2006|access-date=December 13, 2006}} The source of the album's creativity such as the sound and edge comes from Ciara in general.{{cite web|last=Jones|first=Bomani|url=http://www.vibe.com/news/news_headlines/2006/09/ciara_continues_her_evolution_with_new_album/|title="Ciara Continues Her "Evolution" with New Album"|work=Vibe|date=September 19, 2006|access-date=December 13, 2006|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061017021524/http://www.vibe.com/news/news_headlines/2006/09/ciara_continues_her_evolution_with_new_album/|archive-date=October 17, 2006}} Ciara: The Evolution became Ciara's first and only number one album on the U.S. Billboard 200, and her second number one on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums charts with sales of 338,000 in the first week. The album went on to be certified platinum by the RIAA in the United States, and has sold 1.3 million copies according to Nielsen SoundScan.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/chart-beat/957692/ask-billboard-jewel-ciara-ricky-martin|title=Ask Billboard: Jewel, Ciara, Ricky Martin|first=Gary|last=Trust|magazine=Billboard|date=June 18, 2010|access-date=July 27, 2010}}
File:Ciara Live 2 (cropped).jpg in November 2006]]
The album's international lead single, "Get Up", which features Chamillionaire, reached number seven in the United States and gained a platinum accreditation. It reached number five in New Zealand.{{cite web|url=https://charts.nz/showitem.asp?interpret=Ciara+feat.+Chamillionaire&titel=Get+Up&cat=s|title=Ciara feat. Chamillionaire – Get Up|publisher=charts.nz|access-date=December 17, 2010}} The song was used for the film Step Up (2006) and featured on the film's soundtrack. The album's US lead single, "Promise", reached number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became her third number one single on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. "Like a Boy" was released as the second international single which reached within the top 20 in the UK,{{cite web|url=http://www.everyhit.com/searchsec.php|title=everyHit.com search results|publisher=everyHIT.com|access-date=December 16, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012195559/http://www.everyhit.com/searchsec.php|archive-date=October 12, 2008}} Finland,{{cite web|url=http://finnishcharts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=Ciara&titel=Like+A+Boy&cat=s|title=Ciara – Like a Boy|publisher=finnishcharts.com. Hung Medien|access-date=December 17, 2010}} France, Ireland, Sweden{{cite web|url=http://swedishcharts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=Ciara&titel=Like+A+Boy&cat=s|title=Ciara – Like a Boy|publisher=swedishcharts.com. Hung Medien|access-date=December 17, 2010}} Switzerland, and also in the United States.[{{BillboardURLbyName|artist=ciara|chart=all}} Ciara – Billboard Artist Chart History]{{dead link|date=July 2011}} Billboard Charts; retrieved December 17, 2010. The fourth and final single from the album, "Can't Leave 'em Alone", reached number 10 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and number 40 on the Billboard Hot 100.{{cite web|url={{BillboardURLbyName|artist=ciara|chart=all}}|title=Can't Leave 'Em Alove – 50 Cent|access-date=July 16, 2012}} The song became Ciara's fifth single to peak in the top in New Zealand, peaking at number 4.{{cite web|url=https://charts.nz/showitem.asp?interpret=Ciara+feat%2E+50+Cent&titel=Can%27t+Leave+%27Em+Alone&cat=s|title=Ciara feat. 50 Cent – Can't Leave 'Em Alone|publisher=charts.nz|access-date=July 16, 2012}} The song achieved moderate success in other international markets.
In support of the album, Ciara went on her first headlining tour in October 2006. The tour went to seventeen different clubs in cities throughout the United States. The tour was met with mixed to positive reviews; critics were divided regarding the pre-recorded backing tracks and remarked that Ciara was slightly under-prepared to host her headlining tour, but ultimately praised her energetic choreography. In August 2007, she headlined the Screamfest '07 tour with fellow rapper, T.I. Critics praised her performance for her gracious dancing and being able to command a sold-out arena.{{cite web|url=http://backtorockville.typepad.com/back_to_rockville/2007/08/review-screamfe.html|title=Review: Screamfest '07|access-date=July 16, 2012}} Ciara, along with Chris Brown and Akon, was a support act for Rihanna's Good Girl Gone Bad Tour in the United Kingdom. She made a guest appearance on "So What" by Field Mob. The single went on to become a top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. She also appeared on Tiffany Evans' single "Promise Ring". The song achieved little success on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.
In addition to her music, Ciara made her acting debut in the MTV Films production All You've Got in May 2006. In the movie she played Becca Whiley, a teenager who is competing in a volleyball tournament. The movie received mixed to positive reviews; critics said the movie was predictable but still enjoyable.{{cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0458465/externalreviews|title=All You've Got (2006) – External reviews|website=IMDb|access-date=July 16, 2012}}
=2008–2011: ''Fantasy Ride'', ''Basic Instinct'' and label change=
File:Oliver Mark - Ciara Princess Harris, Berlin 2008.jpg, Berlin 2008]]
In October 2008, Ciara was honored as Billboard{{'}}s "Woman of the Year", because of her success as a recording artist and leadership in embracing the changing music business.{{cite web|last=Joszor|first=Njai|url=http://www.singersroom.com/news/2498/Billboard-Names-Ciara-Woman-Of-The-Year|title=Billboard Names Ciara "Woman Of The Year"|work=Singers Room|date=October 15, 2008|access-date=December 17, 2010}}
Although her third album was originally scheduled for a September 2008 release, Fantasy Ride was released after several delays in May 2009. The album combines her R&B and hip hop sound from her previous albums along with a new pop and dance sound. While talking to MTV News, Ciara said, "I'm having a bit more fun with my lyrics. I'm not afraid. In the beginning, I was conscious and really protective and somewhat scared about doing some things. With this album I'm not holding back, there's freedom. It's just the space I'm in right now."{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1610701/ciara-talks-fantasy-ride-im-not-holding-back.jhtml|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140419023005/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1610701/ciara-talks-fantasy-ride-im-not-holding-back.jhtml|url-status=dead|archive-date=April 19, 2014|title=Ciara Talks Fantasy Ride: 'I'm Not Holding Back'|website=MTV|access-date=July 16, 2012}} It became Ciara's first top ten album in the UK.
"Go Girl" was the first single released from the album. It was originally the lead single from the album, but the single achieved minimum success and was later deemed a promo single. However, the single managed to reach the top of the charts in Japan. The album's official lead single, "Never Ever", which features Young Jeezy, was released in the United States in January 2009 and reached a peak of number nine on the U.S. Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs. The second single, "Love Sex Magic", featuring Justin Timberlake, became a worldwide hit, peaking within the top 10 in 20 countries including the U.S., where it peaked at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. It went on to be certified platinum in Australia{{cite web|url=http://www.aria.com.au/pages/httpwww.aria.com.aupageshttpwww.aria.com.aupageshttpwww.aria.com.aupagesARIACharts-Accr.htm|title=ARIA Charts – Accreditations – 2009 Singles|publisher=Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA)|access-date=December 17, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120212185140/http://www.aria.com.au/pages/httpwww.aria.com.aupageshttpwww.aria.com.aupageshttpwww.aria.com.aupagesARIACharts-Accr.htm|archive-date=February 12, 2012}} and received a gold accreditation in New Zealand.{{cite web|url=http://www.radioscope.net.nz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=77&Itemid=63|title=Gold / Platinum Singles|publisher=RadioScope|access-date=August 16, 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110724195729/http://www.radioscope.net.nz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=77&Itemid=63|archive-date=July 24, 2011}} It received a nomination for "Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals" at the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards and also for Best Choreography in a Video at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards. "Work", the final single, achieved moderate success in international markets.File: Ciara 2009.jpgIn July 2009, Ciara headlined the Jay-Z & Ciara Live tour with Jay-Z. Her performance received mixed reviews; critics said although her dancing was top-notch, she seemed disconnected from the crowd.{{cite news|url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2009/07/live-review-jayz-keeps-his-friends-close-in-las-vegas.html|title=Live review: Jay-Z keeps his friends close in Las Vegas|access-date=July 16, 2012|work=Los Angeles Times|date=July 4, 2009}} She was also the support act for Britney Spears's Circus tour, where she performed eight nights at London's prestigious O2 Arena during June 2009.{{cite web|last=Lewis|first=Pete|url=http://www.bluesandsoul.com/feature/410/minx_to_the_max/|title=CIARA: STAR BRIGHT|year=2009|work=Blues & Soul|access-date=October 27, 2010}} Her performance received rave reviews from critics and fans alike, who noted her dancing skills as being spectacular and arguably better than Britney Spears'.{{cite web|url=http://gossiponthis.com/2009/06/04/ciara-britney-spears-perform-for-the-circus-starring-britney-spears-tour-at-the-o2-arena-in-london/|title=Ciara & Britney Spears Perform for "The Circus: Starring Britney Spears Tour" at the O2 Arena in London|date=June 5, 2009|access-date=July 16, 2012}} Ciara made a guest appearance on Nelly's single "Stepped On My J'z" from his album Brass Knuckles. The song achieved minimal success in the U.S.. Ciara was also featured on Enrique Iglesias' single, "Takin' Back My Love", from his Greatest Hits album. The song became an international hit, peaking in the top 10 of over 15 countries, and being certified Gold in Russia, with sales of over 100,000. In February 2010, Ciara along with Pitbull was featured on the remix to Ludacris' hit single "How Low". The following month, Ciara made a cameo appearance in the music video of Usher's single, "Lil' Freak".
Ciara released her fourth studio album, Basic Instinct, on December 14, 2010. She told Pete Lewis of Blues & Soul magazine that the album is about her trusting her instinct and going back to the R&B/urban basics, in the days of "Goodies" and "1, 2 Step".{{cite web|last=Lewis|first=Pete|url=http://www.bluesandsoul.com/feature/560/sometimes/its_a_dirty_job|title=Ciara: Killer instincts|date=July 2010|work=Blues & Soul|access-date=December 16, 2010|archive-date=January 20, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120120084008/http://www.bluesandsoul.com/feature/560/sometimes/its_a_dirty_job/|url-status=dead}} It was executive-produced by the singer alongside her A&R agent Mark Pitts and writing/production duo Tricky Stewart and The-Dream who also produced records for her previous album, Fantasy Ride. Basic Instinct debuted at number forty-four on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart, with first-week sales of 37,000 copies, becoming her first album to not peak within the top three.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/948887/swift-back-at-no-1-on-billboard-200-michael-bows-at-no-3|title=Swift Back at No. 1 on Billboard 200, 'Michael' Bows at No. 3|magazine=Billboard|first=Keith|last=Caulfield|date=December 22, 2010|access-date=December 22, 2010}} On the U.S. R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, the album opened at number 11,{{cite magazine|url={{BillboardURLbyName|artist=ciara|chart=all}} |title=Artist=Ciara Album=Basic Instinct |magazine=Billboard |access-date=December 23, 2010}} her only album to not peak within the top two of the chart.
The lead single, "Ride", which features Ludacris, was released on April 26, 2010. It peaked at number 42 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, number three on the U.S. Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart,{{cite magazine|url={{BillboardURLbyName|artist=ciara|chart=R&B/Hip-Hop Songs}}|title=Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs |access-date=August 8, 2010 |date=August 7, 2010 |magazine=Billboard}} becoming her twelfth top ten hit on the chart,{{cite press release|url=http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ciara-unleashes-her-basic-instinct-106452708.html|title=Ciara Unleashes Her 'Basic Instinct' – NEW YORK, Nov. 1, 2010|publisher=PRNewswire|access-date=November 16, 2010}} and number seventy-five on the UK Singles Chart.{{cite web|url=https://www.officialcharts.com/search/singles/Harpo%27s%20Ghost|title=The Official Charts Company – Ciara Ft Ludacris – Ride|work=Official Charts Company|access-date=December 17, 2010}} The accompanying music video won the award for "Best Dance Performance" at the 2010 Soul Train Music Awards.{{cite web|last=Fulghum|first=Sherrill|url=http://www.allvoices.com/contributed-news/7465445-2010-soul-train-award-winners|title=2010 Soul Train Award Winners|date=November 22, 2010|work=All Voices|access-date=December 17, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101203003802/http://www.allvoices.com/contributed-news/7465445-2010-soul-train-award-winners|archive-date=December 3, 2010}} "Speechless" was released as the second single from the album and achieved minimal success, peaking at only number 74 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. "Gimmie Dat", the third single from the album was praised by critics but failed to become a hit, peaking at only 63 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, and number 27 on the urban charts in the UK.{{cite web|url=http://www.theofficialcharts.com/urban-charts|title=UK Urban Charts|publisher=The Official Charts Company|access-date=November 16, 2010}} In November 2010, Ciara performed at the Summerbeatz tour alongside Flo Rida, Jay Sean, Akon, Travie McCoy and Ja Rule.{{cite web|url=http://www.liveguide.com.au/Tours/676466/Flo_Rida_Jay_Sean_Soulja_Boy_Travie_McCoy/Summerbeatz_2010_feat_Flo_Rida_Jay_Sean_Soulja_Boy_Travie_McCoy_Stan_Walker|title=Summerbeatz 2010|work=Live Guide|access-date=November 27, 2010}} In the summer of 2011, Ciara was a part of the Malibu Rum Tour. She performed in seven shows across the US.{{cite web|url=http://www.usmagazine.com/entertainment/news/taio-cruz-ciara-announce-summer-tour-2011306|title=Ciara, Taio Cruz Announce Summer Tour|date=June 30, 2011|access-date=July 16, 2012}}
In February 2011, following rumors that Ciara had been dropped by Jive Records, she released an official statement to her Facebook page complaining of inadequate promotion and funding from the label. She stated that she received a lack of support from the label, and even paid for the promotion of some singles, such as "Gimmie Dat", herself. The frustration she felt while working with her third and fourth albums led her to request that she be released from her contract.{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2011/02/14/ciara-prays-for-label-to-release-her/#more-74314|title=Ciara Prays for Label to Release Her|work=Rap-Up|date=February 14, 2011|access-date=February 14, 2011}} In May 2011, Ciara was removed from the Jive Records website roster.{{cite web|url=http://www.jiverecords.com/artists |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100317135131/http://www.jiverecords.com/artists |url-status=dead |archive-date=March 17, 2010|title=Jive Label Group|publisher=Jiverecords.com|date=February 22, 1999|access-date=July 16, 2011}} On July 12, 2011, it was reported that she had reunited with L.A. Reid by signing with his record label Epic Records,{{cite web|url=http://www.singersroom.com/news/7306/Ciara-Moving-to-La-Reids-Epic-Label-Group-After-Restructure-Report|title=Ciara Moving to L.A. Reid's Epic Label Group After Restructure, Report|work=Singersroom|date=July 12, 2011|access-date=March 7, 2012}} and was confirmed in September 2011.{{cite web|url=http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/industry/record-labels/outkast-ciara-headed-for-l-a-reid-s-epic-1005354602.story|title=Outkast, Ciara Headed for L.A. Reid's Epic Records, Sources Say|publisher=Billboard.biz|date=September 15, 2011|access-date=November 24, 2011}}
=2012–2013: ''Ciara'' and further acting=
During an interview with Sway in the Morning in February 2012, Ciara revealed that she would be taking her time recording her fifth studio album, stating: "It's just really about the vibe, and I'll just tell you that it's a good vibe going. It's really important for me to take my time with this record and it's important for the whole team. It's really, really good energy."{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2012/02/23/ciara-soaks-up-the-sun-in-beverly-hills/|title=Ciara Soaks Up the Sun in Beverly Hills|work=Rap-Up|date=February 23, 2012|access-date=March 7, 2012}} She has been working on the album with a number of producers and songwriters, including Hit-Boy, Soundz, Diane Warren, Tricky Stewart, and The Underdogs.{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2011/11/15/ciara-crafts-a-hit-with-hit-boy/|title=Ciara Crafts a 'Hit' with Hit-Boy|work=Rap-Up|date=November 15, 2011|access-date=March 7, 2012}}{{cite web|author=Trent|url=http://thelavalizard.com/2012/02/boiling-point-ciaras-shaky-discography/|title=Boiling Point: Ciara's Shaky Discography|work=Thelavalizard.com|date=February 28, 2012|access-date=March 7, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120303171524/http://thelavalizard.com/2012/02/boiling-point-ciaras-shaky-discography/|archive-date=March 3, 2012}}{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2012/06/04/ciara-shares-producers-on-one-woman-army/|title=Ciara Shares Producers on 'One Woman Army'|work=Rap-Up|date=June 4, 2012|access-date=June 5, 2012}} In an interview, Ciara said "I worked with some people that are very fresh, which I'm excited about... When it comes to artists, when it comes to writers, when it comes to producers, I really wanted to push. We pretty much reached out and worked with a lot of people that I've never worked with before, which is really fun."{{cite news|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2012/06/04/ciara-shares-producers-on-one-woman-army/#more-126117|title=Ciara Shares Producers on 'One Woman Army'|newspaper=Rap-Up |publisher=Rap-Up.com|access-date=February 13, 2013}}
During a press conference with MTV in May 2012, Ciara announced her fifth studio album would be titled One Woman Army and said the lead single, "Sweat", would be out very soon.{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/music/news/a384612/ciara-confirms-new-single-sweat-album-one-woman-army.html|title=Ciara confirms new single 'Sweat', album 'One Woman Army'|last=Corner|first=Lewis|website=Digital Spy|access-date=May 31, 2012|date=May 31, 2012}}{{cite magazine|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.19932/title.ciara-announces-title-of-new-album-single|title=Ciara announces the title of her upcoming fifth solo album|last=Horowitz|first=Stephen J.|magazine=HipHopDX.com|access-date=May 31, 2012|date=May 31, 2012}} The single, which features rapper 2 Chainz, premiered online on June 4, 2012, and was to be released via iTunes on June 19, 2012.{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2012/06/04/new-music-ciara-f-2-chainz-sweat|title=New Music: Ciara f/2 Chainz – 'Sweat'|work=Rap-Up|date=June 4, 2012|access-date=June 5, 2012}} However, the release of the single was scrapped at the last minute for unknown reasons. On August 13, 2012, Ciara revealed that the official lead single for the album would be titled "Sorry".{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/music/news/a399284/ciara-teases-new-single-sorry-lyrics.html|title=Ciara teases new single 'Sorry' lyrics|website=Digital Spy|date=August 14, 2012|access-date=August 14, 2012}} On September 13, 2012, the official music video for "Sorry" was premiered on BET's 106 & Park as well as VEVO. "Sorry" was made available for purchase as a digital download on September 25, 2012, and impacted U.S. Urban contemporary and Rhythmic radio stations on October 9, 2012.{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2012/09/13/video-ciara-sorry|title=Video: Ciara – 'Sorry'|access-date=September 15, 2012}} In the United States, "Sorry" reached a peak at 40 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart{{cite magazine|url={{BillboardURLbyName|artist=ciara|chart=R&B/Hip-Hop Songs}}|title=Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs : Page 1 |magazine=Billboard |access-date=February 13, 2013}} while charting at number 22 on Billboard's Bubbling Under Hot 100 Singles chart listing of the top 25 songs that have yet to enter the Billboard Hot 100.
On October 21, 2012, Rap-Up magazine posted a behind-the-scenes sneak peek of "Got Me Good", the second single from the album. The song and video, which was directed by Joseph Kahn, premiered on the Sony JumboTron in Times Square in New York City on October 25, 2012. The single was released via digital download on November 6, 2012.{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2012/10/24/ciara-to-perform-on-kimmel-premiere-got-me-good-video-in-times-square/#more-140395|title=Ciara to Perform on 'Kimmel', Premiere 'Got Me Good' Video in Times Square|publisher=Rap-Up.com|date=October 24, 2012|access-date=February 13, 2013}} "Got Me Good" impacted rhythmic radio on November 13,{{cite web |url=http://www.allaccess.com/top40-rhythmic/future-releases |title=Future Releases |access-date=October 31, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121111180956/http://www.allaccess.com/top40-rhythmic/future-releases |archive-date=November 11, 2012 |url-status=dead }} and mainstream radio on December 4.{{cite web |url=http://www.allaccess.com/top40-mainstream/future-releases |title=Top 40/M Future Releases | Mainstream Hit Songs Being Released and Their Release Dates |access-date=October 31, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121111183609/http://www.allaccess.com/top40-mainstream/future-releases |archive-date=November 11, 2012 |url-status=live }}{{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131106063858/http://www.allaccess.com/top40-mainstream/future-releases |date=November 6, 2013 }}
On April 15, 2013, the same day the album's track listing was revealed, it was also announced that the album is not titled One Woman Army anymore and that the new title is Ciara. Due to their low performance on the charts, the label decided not to include "Sweat", "Sorry", and "Got Me Good" on the tracklist. Instead, it was later announced that a new song titled "Body Party" would serve as the lead single. It was released in March 2013 and reached number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number two on the U.S. Billboard "Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs" chart. The second single was "I'm Out" featuring Nicki Minaj. The album was released on July 9, 2013.{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/ciara/id632895294|title=Ciara by Ciara|publisher=iTunes|date=May 31, 2013|access-date=July 10, 2013}} The album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 chart, with first-week sales of 59,000 copies in the U.S.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/2005381/jay-z-scores-13th-no-1-album-on-billboard-200-ciara-bows-at-no-2|title=Jay Z Scores 13th No. 1 Album On Billboard 200, Ciara Bows At No. 2|magazine=Billboard|date=July 17, 2013|access-date=July 18, 2013}} The album became Ciara's fourth album to chart within the top three of the Billboard chart. The album charted at number two on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/2823095/chart-juice-jay-z-nets-his-fourth-largest-sales-week-ever|title=Chart Juice: Jay Z Nets His Fourth-Largest Sales Week Ever|magazine=Billboard|date=July 18, 2013|access-date=July 22, 2013}}
Aside from music in 2012, Ciara also starred in two movies during this time. She starred in the straight-to-DVD film, Mama, I Want to Sing!. She played Amara Winter, a preacher's daughter who was discovered by a well-established musician.{{cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0880569/|title=Mama, I Want To Sing (2011)|website=IMDb|date=January 19, 2011|access-date=June 2, 2012}} She appeared as Brie in the 2012 comedy film, That's My Boy. Ciara made an appearance as herself playing Lauren London's best friend on the Season 6 premiere of BET's The Game which aired on March 26, 2013, she continued to be a recurring cast member throughout the season.{{cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1232200/|title=That's My Boy (2012)|website=IMDb|access-date=June 2, 2012}}
= 2014–2016: ''Jackie'' and motherhood =
File:Ciaraat the TODAY Show Concert Series - 2015 (cropped).jpg in 2015]]
In September 2013, producer Mike WiLL Made It revealed that Ciara had begun work on her sixth studio album.{{cite web|url=http://idolator.com/7484801/mike-will-made-it-talks-miley-cyrus-musical-beginnings-ciaras-next-album#more-7484801|title=Mike WiLL Made It Talks Miley Cyrus, Musical Beginnings & Ciara's Next Album|work=Music News, Reviews, and Gossip on Idolator.com|date=September 17, 2013}} In December 2013, Ciara confirmed she was in the process of making a new album.{{cite web|url=http://www.idolator.com/7499400/ciara-sixth-album#more-7499400|title=Ciara Says She's Already Working On Her Sixth Album|work=Music News, Reviews, and Gossip on Idolator.com|date=December 23, 2013}} During an interview with Rap-Up magazine Ciara revealed that recording for her sixth album began around Thanksgiving of 2013 and she would be releasing new music "really soon".{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2014/01/15/ciara-opens-up-about-baby-new-album-beyonce/#more-177063|title=Ciara Opens Up About Baby, New Album, & Beyoncé|work=Rap-Up}} In late January 2014, Ciara premiered a live version of a song entitled "Anytime" at the Degree Women Grammys Celebration in Los Angeles, on February 2, 2014, Ciara premiered the studio version, produced Boi-1da and Katalyst featuring her then-boyfriend and rapper Future.{{cite web|url=http://www.directlyrics.com/new-music-ciara-anytime-news.html|title=New Music: Ciara feat. Future – 'Anytime'|work=Directlyrics}}
After her engagement to Future, Ciara revealed to W in April 2014 that her sixth studio album would be predominantly inspired by her then-fiancé.{{cite web|author=Sherman, Maria|url=http://www.fuse.tv/2015/01/ciara-i-bet|title=Check Out Ciara's Somber Single 'I Bet'|publisher=Fuse. SiTV Media|date=January 14, 2015|access-date=January 27, 2015}} Ciara gave birth to her first child in May 2014, a boy fathered by Future. After claims of Future's infidelity during their relationship had surfaced, it was reported that the couple's engagement had been called off.{{cite magazine|author=Ramirez, Erika|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/6436671/ciara-i-bet-exclusive-song-premiere|title=Ciara, 'I Bet': Exclusive Song Premiere|magazine=Billboard|date=January 13, 2015|access-date=January 27, 2015}} Following their very public break-up, Ciara's album release was further postponed to 2015, and during this time the singer "quietly" recorded new music, while concentrating on motherhood.{{cite news|author=Ruggieri, Melissa|url=http://music.blog.ajc.com/2015/01/14/is-ciaras-bold-new-song-i-bet-a-dig-at-future/|title=Is Ciara's bold new song a dig at Future?|work=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution|date=January 14, 2015|access-date=January 27, 2015|archive-date=January 18, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150118015353/http://music.blog.ajc.com/2015/01/14/is-ciaras-bold-new-song-i-bet-a-dig-at-future/|url-status=dead}}
"I Bet", the lead single from her album Jackie, was released on January 26, 2015.{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2015/01/13/new-music-ciara-i-bet/|title=New Music: Ciara – 'I Bet'|work=Rap-Up}}{{cite web|url=http://thecapher.com/2015/01/14/new-music-ciara-i-bet/|title=NEW MUSIC: Ciara "I Bet" – The Capher|work=The Capher|access-date=January 25, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190703103651/https://thecapher.com/2015/01/14/new-music-ciara-i-bet/|archive-date=July 3, 2019|url-status=dead}}
In May 2015, Ciara embarked on her first headlining tour in six years. The month-long Jackie Tour kicked off on May 3, 2015, in Chicago and included stops in New York, Boston, New Orleans, Dallas, and Los Angeles. The first round of US dates wrapped May 31 in San Francisco.{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2015/03/31/ciara-announces-jackie-tour/|title=Ciara Announces 'Jackie' Tour|work=Rap-Up}}{{cite press release|title=Ciara Announces Musician Auditions For U.S. Tour For Her New Album|url=http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ciara-announces-musician-auditions-for-us-tour-for-her-new-album-300047629.html|publisher=PR Newswire. The Fame Factory.|location=United States|date=March 9, 2015|access-date=March 9, 2015}}
Ciara's sixth album, Jackie, was released on May 1, 2015.{{cite web|title=iTunes – Musik – Jackie (Deluxe) von Ciara|url=https://itunes.apple.com/de/album/jackie-deluxe/id983798746|website=iTunes|publisher=Apple Inc.|location=Germany|language=de|date=May 1, 2015}} It includes the singles "I Bet" and "Dance like We're Making Love". The album debuted at number 17 on the Billboard 200 with 25,000 units (19,900 in sales), and has the lowest first-week sales amongst her first six albums.{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2015/05/13/ciara-debuts-at-no-17-with-jackie/|title=Ciara Debuts at No. 17 with 'Jackie'|work=Rap-Up|date=May 13, 2015|access-date=May 16, 2015}}
After appearing in the US talent show, I Can Do That, she host the 2016 edition of the Billboard Music Awards.{{cite web|date=2019-04-10|title='I Can Do That' Renewed for Second Season by NBC – TV By The Numbers by zap2it.com|url=https://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/1/i-can-do-that-renewed-for-second-season-by-nbc/|access-date=2021-08-31|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190410190255/https://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/1/i-can-do-that-renewed-for-second-season-by-nbc/|archive-date=April 10, 2019}} A few months later, she announced during the red-carpet of the American Music Awards that she was pregnant.{{cite web|date=2016-11-22|title=Ciara on How to Dress for the Red Carpet When You're Pregnant|url=https://www.vogue.com/article/ciara-stephane-rolland-taraji-p-henson-amas-2016-red-carpet-celebrity-video-diary-style|access-date=2021-08-31|website=Vogue|language=en-US}}
= 2017–2021: ''Beauty Marks'' and entrepreneur projects =
During 2016, Ciara worked on her seventh studio album and stated that the album would feature her undertaking a new musical direction.{{cite web|url=http://www.fuse.tv/2016/03/ciara-defends-jackie-best-seventh-album|title=Ciara defends 'Jackie', says next album will be best of her career|work=Fuse|date=March 1, 2016|access-date=November 11, 2016|author=Gracie, Bianca}} On January 27, 2017, it was announced that Ciara had signed a deal with Warner Bros. Records.{{cite magazine|last=Lamarre|first=Carl|title=Ciara Signs With Warner Bros. Records|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/hip-hop/7669857/ciara-signs-warner-bros-records|access-date=January 27, 2017|magazine=Billboard|date=January 27, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170127155239/http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/hip-hop/7669857/ciara-signs-warner-bros-records|archive-date=January 27, 2017|location=United States}}{{cite web|author1=Sam|title=Ciara Signs New Record Deal With Warner Bros|url=http://thatgrapejuice.net/2017/01/ciara-signs-new-record-deal-warner-bros/|website=That Grape Juice|publisher=PlayBigMedia.com|access-date=January 27, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170127145946/http://thatgrapejuice.net/2017/01/ciara-signs-new-record-deal-warner-bros/|archive-date=January 27, 2017|location=United States|date=January 27, 2017}} On July 17, 2018, Ciara released the single and its accompanying music video, "Level Up". The song was the first single from her seventh studio album{{cite web|url=https://ratedrnb.com/2018/07/ciara-returns-with-upbeat-single-level-up/|title=Ciara Returns with Upbeat Single 'Level Up'|website=ratedrnb.com|date=July 17, 2018|language=en-US|access-date=July 20, 2018}} Beauty Marks, released on May 10, 2019.{{cite web|url=https://www.rap-up.com/article/2019/03/28/ciara-announces-new-album-beauty-marks/|title=Ciara Announces New Album 'Beauty Marks'|access-date=March 28, 2019|work=Rap-Up}} In addition to "Level Up", the album spawned the singles "Freak Me", "Dose", "Greatest Love" and "Thinkin Bout You".{{cite web |title=Ciara – "Thinkin Bout You" |url=https://www.spin.com/2019/03/ciara-thinkin-bout-you/ |website=SpinMedia |access-date=May 3, 2019 |date=March 29, 2019}} Ciara performed "Thinkin Bout You" at the 2019 Billboard Music Awards.{{cite web|url=https://people.com/music/billboard-music-awards-2019-halsey-dan-shay-ciara-tori-kelly-perform/|title=Halsey, Dan + Shay, Ciara, Tori Kelly to Perform at 2019 Billboard Music Awards|website=People|language=en|access-date=May 6, 2019}}
In July 2019, it was announced that Ciara would appear as a judge alongside David Dobrik and Debbie Gibson in a new musical competition on Nickelodeon titled America's Most Musical Family.{{cite press release|url=https://www.nickpress.com/press-releases/2019/07/25/nickelodeon-sets-all-star-line-up-with-pop-culture-superstars-ciara-david-dobrik-debbie-gibson-and-nick-lachey-for-new-music-competition-series-americas-most-musical-family|title=Nickelodeon Sets All-Star Line-Up with Pop Culture Superstars Ciara, David Dobrik, Debbie Gibson and Nick Lachey for New Music Competition Series, America's Most Musical Family|access-date=July 25, 2019|date=July 25, 2019|publisher=Nickelodeon}} On December 23, 2019, Ciara featured on the remix of longtime friend Blanco Brown's "The Git Up".{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/country/8546985/blanco-brown-the-git-up-remix-ciara|title=Ciara Gets Low and Two-Steps All Through Blanco Brown's 'The Git Up' Remix: Listen|last=Kaufman|first=Gil|date=December 23, 2020|magazine=Billboard|access-date=May 29, 2020}}
After taking a break from music to focus on her pregnancy, Ciara released a song and video titled "Rooted", featuring Ester Dean, on August 13, 2020.{{cite tweet|url=https://www.twitter.com/ciara/status/1293219214426161152|title=#Rooted 8.13.20|number=1293219214426161152|user=Ciara|date=August 11, 2020|access-date=August 11, 2020}} Between 2020 and 2021, Ciara and her husband Russell Wilson embarked on several business projects, opening the fashion house The House of LR&C,{{cite web |date=2020-12-01 |title=With the House of LR&C, Ciara and Russell Wilson Merge Fashion and Philanthropy |url=https://www.vogue.com/slideshow/the-house-of-lrc-launch-human-nation-russell-wilson-ciara-interview |access-date=2021-08-31 |website=Vogue |language=en-US}} and signed a first look deal with Amazon Studios to start Why Not You Productions.{{cite web|last1=Del Rosario|first1=Alexandra|date=2021-05-11|title=Russell Wilson & Ciara Strike First-Look Deal With Amazon Studios Through Why Not You Banner|url=https://deadline.com/2021/05/russell-wilson-ciara-strike-first-look-deal-amazon-studios-why-not-you-banner-1234753994/|access-date=2021-05-12|website=Deadline|language=en-US}}
=2022–present: ''The Color Purple'' and eighth studio album=
In March 2022, it was announced that Ciara had joined the cast of The Color Purple as Nettie Harris.{{cite magazine|url=https://ew.com/movies/ciara-color-purple-movie-musical-adult-nettie/|title=Ciara joins The Color Purple movie musical as adult version of Halle Bailey's Nettie|first=Joey|last=Nolfi|magazine=Entertainment Weekly|date=March 22, 2022|accessdate=March 22, 2022}} The Color Purple was released in the United States on December 25, 2023, by Warner Bros. Pictures. Ciara appeared on the cover of the 2022 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, making her the third musician to do so since the issue launched in 1964.{{cite magazine | url=https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/weeks-biggest-winners-may-20-harry-styles-asap-rocky-rihanna-bad-bunny-taylor-swift-ciara-1235073739/ | title=Harry Styles, A$AP Rocky & Rihanna, Bad Bunny, Taylor Swift, Ciara and More of the Week's Biggest Winners (May 20) | magazine=Billboard }}
On June 29, 2022, it was announced that Ciara had signed a new record deal with Republic and Uptown Records, in partnership with her label, Beauty Marks Entertainment. Ciara's eighth studio album will be released through the partnership. The first release from the deal was announced to be the single, "Jump", released on July 8, 2022. In September 2022, it was insinuated that Ciara had collaborated with Summer Walker for a second time.{{cite web | url=https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/summer-walker-still-over-it/ | title=Summer Walker: Still over It | website=Pitchfork }}{{cite web|url=https://www.nme.com/news/music/ciara-teases-summer-walker-feature-on-new-single-better-thangs-3313383|title=Ciara teases Summer Walker feature on new single 'Better Thangs'|website=NME|last=Geraghty|first=Hollie|date=20 September 2022|access-date=30 September 2022}} On September 28, 2022, Ciara released the uptempo single "Better Thangs", which features Walker.{{cite web|url=https://pitchfork.com/news/ciara-and-summer-walker-come-together-for-new-song-better-thangs-listen/|title=Ciara and Summer Walker Come Together for New Song "Better Thangs": Listen|website=Pitchfork|last=Corcoran|first=Nina|date=28 September 2022|access-date=30 September 2022}}{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/ciara-summer-walker-better-thangs-song-1234601786/|title=Ciara Taps Summer Walker for 'Better Thangs,' a 'Feel-Good R&B Anthem'|magazine=Rolling Stone|last=Mier|first=Tomas|date=28 September 2022|access-date=30 September 2022}} The official music video, directed by Mia Barnes premiered online on September 30, 2022.{{cite web|url=https://thatgrapejuice.net/2022/09/new-video-ciara-better-thangs-summer-walker/|title=New Video: Ciara – 'Better Thangs' (ft. Summer Walker)|website=The Grapejuice|date=30 September 2022|access-date=30 September 2022}} On choosing Walker to collaborate with, Ciara divulged "I've always done collaborations because it felt right, it was authentic. It felt like the artist was going to bring a certain flair to this song that it needed… I played [Summer Walker] a few songs on the album and [...] this is the one song that I thought was perfect for her, but I wanted it for her because she also really liked it."{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/ciara-better-thangs-interview-new-music-1235148153/|title=Ciara Is Striving For 'Better Thangs' In Her Life: 'I Love Where I Am As a Woman'|magazine=Billboard|last=Spencer|first=Tallie|date=30 September 2022|access-date=30 September 2022}} The single has reached 13 on the US Billboard Adult R&B Songs chart, becoming Ciara's first top twenty hit on the chart.{{cite magazine | url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/ciara/chart-history/rba/ | title=Ciara | magazine=Billboard }} In November 2022 a remix of "Better Thangs" featuring rapper GloRilla was released.
On March 24, 2023, Ciara released the single "Da Girls", which was followed on April 14, 2023, with a remix with Lola Brooke and Lady London.{{cite web|url=https://open.spotify.com/album/317PcUzE4jLbru2ex8v1k9?si=a8xp-5XcTYiWdCH57W7qKA|title=Ciara - Da Girls (Girls Remix feat Lola Brooke and Lady London)|website=Spotify|date=April 14, 2023|access-date=April 17, 2023}} Ciara then appeared as a guest performer during Jackson Wang's Coachella performance; the pair performed XG's song "Left Right", and a medley of Ciara's songs: "Lose Control", "Level Up", "Goodies" and "1, 2, Step".{{cite web|url=https://thatgrapejuice.net/2023/04/ciara-delivers-surprise-performance-coachella-2023-with-jackson-wang/|title=Ciara Delivers Surprise Performance at Coachella 2023 with Jackson Wang|website=That Grape Juice|date=April 17, 2023|access-date=April 17, 2023}}{{cite web|url=https://www.nme.com/news/music/jackson-wang-ciara-coachella-x-left-right-3431142|title=Watch Jackson Wang and Ciara perform XG's 'Left Right' at Coachella|website=NME|last=Ziwei|first=Puah|date=17 April 2023|access-date=17 April 2023}} The set also included a short snippet of Wang and Ciara's song "Slow", which was released as a single on the same day.{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/gb/album/slow-single/1681945212|title=Slow - Jackson Wang & Ciara|website=Apple Music|date=April 17, 2023|access-date=April 17, 2023}} On April 25, 2023, the pair released the official music video to "Slow", featuring dance-heavy choreography.{{cite web|url=https://www.nme.com/news/music/ciara-working-with-jackson-wang-dream-slow-3442140|title=Ciara on working with Jackson Wang: "It was a dream of mine"|website=NME|last=Ziwei|first=Puah|date=11 May 2023|access-date=14 May 2023}}{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWL9dLK2meM|title=Jackson Wang & Ciara - Slow|website=YouTube|date=25 April 2023|access-date=14 May 2023}} On May 12, 2023, Ciara released Versions, an EP with remixes to "Da Girls", featuring Derrick Milano, Lay Bankz and the previously released Girls Mix.{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/gb/album/da-girls-versions-single/1687543759|title=Ciara - Da Girls Versions|website=Apple Music|date=May 12, 2023|access-date=May 14, 2023}} On June 30, 2023, Ciara released "Get Loose" with Agnez Mo.{{cite web|url=https://thatgrapejuice.net/2023/06/ciara-announces-new-single-get-loose-with-agnez/|title=Ciara Announces New Single 'Get Loose' With Agnez Mo|website=That Grape Juice|date=25 June 2023|access-date=30 June 2023}}{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/gb/album/get-loose-feat-ciara-single/1693878092|title=Get Loose|website=Apple Music|date=30 June 2023|access-date=30 June 2023}} In August 2023, Ciara announced her EP, titled CiCi would be released on August 18, 2023. The lead single from the EP was "How We Roll", which also features Chris Brown as co-lead.{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/gb/album/cici/1699432274|title=Ciara - Ci Ci|website=Apple Music|date=August 4, 2023|access-date=August 4, 2023}}{{cite web|url=https://ratedrnb.com/2023/08/ciara-announces-new-ep-cici/|title=Ciara Announces New EP 'CiCi'|website=Rated R&B|last=Samuels|first=Keithan|date=August 4, 2023|access-date=August 4, 2023}} On August 18, 2023, Ciara released CiCi; the music video to the EP's second single, "Forever", which features Lil Baby, was also released the same day.{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SvZIsYffNk|title=Ciara, Lil Baby - Forever|website=YouTube|date=August 18, 2023|access-date=August 18, 2023}}{{cite web|url=https://thesource.com/2023/08/17/ciara-announces-new-single-forever-feat-lil-baby/|title=Ciara Announces New Single "Forever" Feat. Lil Baby|website=The Source|last=Grant|first=Shawn|date=August 17, 2023|access-date=August 18, 2023}} On November 3, 2023, Ciara released a remix to "How We Roll", with a featured rap from Lil Wayne.{{cite web|url=https://open.spotify.com/album/0yMfdY4CCyG83pX3PFlLYC?si=NYdQWGcqQ8m4LNoBqegCjw|title=How We Roll (Remix)|website=Spotify|date=November 3, 2023|access-date=November 3, 2023}} On November 10, 2023, Ciara released the single "Fantasy", in collaboration with Canadian EDM trio Keys N Krates.{{cite web|url=https://ratedrnb.com/2023/11/ciara-joins-keys-n-krates-fantasy/|title=Ciara Joins EDM Trio Keys N Krates on New Song 'Fantasy'|website=Rated R&B|last=Samuels|first=Keithan|date=November 10, 2023|access-date=November 10, 2023}}{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/gb/album/fantasy-single/1712360943|title=Fantasy (single) Keys N Krates, Ciara|website=Apple Music|date=November 10, 2023|access-date=November 10, 2023}}
On June 21, 2024, a remix of Hulvey's 2023 song "Altar", featuring Ciara, was officially released.{{Cite web |last=Sarachik |first=Justin |date=June 21, 2024 |title=Hulvey & Ciara Release 'ALTAR Remix' as Rapper Gears Up for New Album |url=https://rapzilla.com/2024-06-hulvey-ciara-release-altar-remix-rapper-album/ |access-date=June 24, 2024 |website=Rapzilla}} On July 30, the singer announced her single "Run It Up" featuring Bossman Dlow was released August 9, 2024.{{Cite web |last=Samuels |first=Keithan |date=July 30, 2024 |title=Ciara Announces New Single 'Run It Up' Featuring BossMan Dlow |url=https://ratedrnb.com/2024/07/ciara-bossman-dlow-run-it-up-single-announcement/ |access-date=July 30, 2024 |website=Rated R&B}}{{cite web|url=https://open.spotify.com/album/0c7tO5okH4eQPaxD6TM7V2?si=wbFC1VIqTCq7ANnGd8Hehg|title=Run It Up - Ciara & BossMan Dlow|website=Spotify|date=August 9, 2024|access-date=August 31, 2024}} She followed this release with "Wassup", a single in collaboration with rapper Busta Rhymes, on September 27, 2024.{{cite web|url=https://open.spotify.com/album/1iAthuOBYXnPz5hNtqn1qF?si=ZQIrMJY1RLaUE6Dg_kI3Bg|title=Ciara - Wassup feat Busta Rhymes|website=Spotify|date=September 27, 2024|access-date=April 4, 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/ciara-taps-busta-rhymes-wassup-single-1235113961/|title=Ciara taps Busta Rhymes for high-energy single "Wassup"|website=Rolling Stone|last=Zemler|first=Emily|date=September 27, 2024|access-date=April 4, 2025}} In the summer of 2024, Ciara embarked on the Out of This World: The Missy Elliott Experience Tour as a supporting act for Missy Elliott, alongside Rhymes; the tour lasted for 24 dates across the United States.{{cite web|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/missy-elliott-tour-ciara-timbaland-busta-rhymes-1235000513/|title=Missy Elliott taps Ciara, Timbaland, Busta Rhymes for her first-ever headlining tour|website=Rolling Stone|last=Paul|first=Larisha|date=April 8, 2024|access-date=April 4, 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/missy-elliott-tour-ciara-busta-rhymes-timbaland-1235752232/|title=Missy Elliott Brings Out Surprise Guest Lil’ Kim As Her First-Ever Headlining Tour Hits NYC|website=Billboard|last=Lynch|first=Joe|date=August 13, 2024|access-date=April 4, 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/art-books-music/a61597473/ciara-out-of-this-world-tour-photo-diary-2024/|title=Ciara Describes Her Style on the Out of This World Tour As “Tomboy Chic on Steroids”|website=Harper's Bazaar|last=Betancourt|first=Bianca|date=July 15, 2024|access-date=April 4, 2025}}
On April 4, 2025, Ciara released the single "Ecstasy",{{cite web|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/ciara-ecstasy-single-1235310604/|title=Ciara embraces her sensuality on empowering new single "Ecstasy"|website=Rolling Stone|last=Zemler|first=Emily|date=April 4, 2025|access-date=April 4, 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://ratedrnb.com/2025/04/ciara-releases-steamy-new-song-ecstasy-listen/|title=Ciara Releases Steamy New Song ‘Ecstasy’: Listen|website=Rated R&B|last=Samuels|first=Keithan|date=April 4, 2025|access-date=April 4, 2025}} garnering universally positive reviews,{{cite web|url=https://www.essence.com/gallery/new-music-ciara-alex-isley/#1532300|title=Best New Music This Week: Ciara Returns With “Ecstasy,” Alex Isley Drops Brand New Single, Rod Wave’s “Sinners” And More|website=Essence|last=Jones|first=Okla|date=April 4, 2025|access-date=April 4, 2025}}{{cite web|url=https://themusicuniverse.com/ciara-unveils-ecstacy/|title=Ciara unveils ‘Ecstacy’|website=The Music Universe|last=Iahn|first=Buddy|date=April 4, 2025|access-date=4 April 2025}} and announced that her eighth studio album, CiCi (an extension of the EP of the same name), would be released on July 11, 2025. Ciara featured on the cover of the May 2025 issue of L'Officiel USA, sharing details of the upcoming studio album, and discussed her career and family.{{cite web|url=https://www.lofficielusa.com/music/ciara-new-album-cici-interview|title=Ciara Is in Her Rhythm|website=L'Officiel USA|last=Hughes|first=Jazmine|date=April 8, 2025|access-date=April 10, 2025}} On May 9, 2025, British DJ Flex (UK) released the single "So & So", featuring Ciara, which contains re-recorded vocals from her 2006 single "Get Up".{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/in/album/so-so-single/1811893447|title=So & So - Single - Album by Flex (UK) and Ciara|website=Apple Music|date=May 9, 2025|access-date=May 9, 2025}}
Artistry
=Vocals and musical style=
{{Listen
|filename= Goodies.ogg
|title="Goodies"
|description=Ciara's debut single "Goodies" boasts the whistle production that characterized her early sound.
|format=Ogg
|filename2=
|title2= "Body Party" (2013)
|description2 = "Body Party" is a slow R&B song that highlights the "breathy" tone she's known for.
|format2=Ogg
}}
Ciara is known for her often "breathy soprano" vocals.{{cite web|url=http://toyazworld.com/2013/03/04/single-review-ciara-body-party|title=Single Review: Ciara – "Body Party"…|publisher=Toyazworld.com|date=March 4, 2013|access-date=August 6, 2013|archive-date=May 10, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130510074903/http://toyazworld.com/2013/03/04/single-review-ciara-body-party/|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|author=Alex Macpherson|url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2009/may/01/ciara-fantasy-ride-album-review|title=Pop review: Ciara, Fantasy Ride|newspaper=The Guardian|date=May 1, 2009|access-date=August 6, 2013|location=London, UK}} Allison Stewart of The Washington Post commented that she has a "reedy, agile voice, capable of conveying the only three emotions (sexy, sassy, sad) an R&B singer needs".{{cite news|last=Stewart|first=Allison|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/04/AR2009050402810.html|title=Quick Spin: Ciara's 'Fantasy Ride' Is Lackluster, With Club Tracks|newspaper=The Washington Post|date=May 5, 2009|access-date=December 17, 2010}} Randall Roberts of the Los Angeles Times said that she "has been the most synthetic of the R&B divas over the past decade, an electro-leaning vocalist whose instrumental palate has heavily favored stark 808 beats, sassy and seductive vocal lines, and, often, weird, futuristic Gary Numan-esque bleeps woven through."{{cite news|last=Roberts|first=Randall|url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2010/12/album-review-ciaras-basic-instinct.html|title=Album review: Ciara's Basic Instinct|work=Los Angeles Times|access-date=December 17, 2010|date=December 14, 2010}} He further commented:
"Ciara's sights are mostly set on one aspect of said universal truth -- desire -- and how it manifests itself on the dance floor ... at the mall ... or in the bedroom...Ciara's debut album featured production from Jazze Pha. In reviewing the album, Slant Magazine noted the influence of Destiny's Child, and compared some of its material to Aaliyah's, albeit "less sexy".{{cite web|last=Cinquemani|first=Sal|url=https://slantmagazine.com/music/review/ciara-goodies/496|title=Ciara: Goodies: Music Reviews|date=September 25, 2004|work=Slant Magazine|access-date=December 17, 2010}} In reviewing her second album Ciara: The Evolution, Jody Rosen of Entertainment Weekly wrote: "Ciara's comfort with rave-inspired beats sets her apart from Cassie, Amerie, Rihanna, and other would-Beyoncés...[Her] singing is nimble throughout: She whispers, coos, wails, and reels off speedy syncopations worthy of Beyoncé herself."{{cite magazine|last=Rosen|first=Jody|url=https://ew.com/article/2006/12/04/ciara-evolution/|title=Ciara: The Evolution: Music|date=December 4, 2006|magazine=Entertainment Weekly|access-date=December 17, 2010|archive-date=June 7, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110607051537/http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,1564585,00.html|url-status=live}} Her third album, Fantasy Ride, saw the singer showcasing a new pop and dance direction, which she recalled later on her sixth album Jackie. Ciara's music is generally contemporary R&B, but it also incorporates other genres including hip hop, crunk, dance-pop, electropop and funk. Critics have described her singles "Goodies", "1, 2 Step", "Get Up", and "Go Girl" as club bangers.{{cite web|url=http://www.idiomag.com/peek/57292/young_jeezy#/57292/1|title=Ciara ft. Young Jeezy – Never Ever|work=Idiomag.com|access-date=December 17, 2010}} Ciara has also dabbled in gospel,{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/pro/ciara-first-top-10-hot-gospel-songs-chart-tasha-cobbs-leonard-in-spite-of-me/|access-date=April 4, 2022|title=Ciara Scores First Top 10 on Hot Gospel Songs Chart With Tasha Cobbs Leonard Collab|magazine=Billboard}} country,{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/music/country/blanco-brown-the-git-up-remix-ciara-8546985/| access-date=April 4, 2022|title=Ciara Gets Low and Two-Steps All Through Blanco Brown's 'The Git Up' Remix: Listen| magazine=Billboard}} and afrobeats.{{cite web|url=https://ratedrnb.com/2018/08/ciara-releases-afrobeat-song-freak-me-featuring-tekno/|access-date=April 4, 2022|title=Ciara Releases Afrobeat Song 'Freak Me' Featuring Tekno|date=August 10, 2018}}{{cite web|url=https://www.capitalxtra.com/news/ciara-freak-me-listen-stream-download/|access-date=April 4, 2022|title=Ciara Releases New Afrobeats-Inspired Single 'Freak Me' Featuring Tekno|website=Capital XTRA}}
=Influences=
File:Michael Jackson1 1988.jpg as one of her biggest influences.|221x221px]]
Ciara said that watching Destiny's Child and Janet Jackson perform on television inspired her to pursue a career in music, and cites Jackson and her brother Michael as her biggest inspirations.{{cite web|last=Vena|first=Jocelyn|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1614861/20090626/jackson_michael.jhtml|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090627221222/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1614861/20090626/jackson_michael.jhtml|url-status=dead|archive-date=June 27, 2009|title=Usher, Ciara, JC Chasez, More Reflect On Michael Jackson's Influence|date=June 26, 2009|work=MTV News|access-date=December 17, 2010}} Ciara considered herself to reach "a career pinnacle" when she featured on Janet Jackson's 2008 album Discipline. Ciara spoke of Michael Jackson's legacy, "Whenever someone asks me who inspires me to do what I do, I always say Michael. That's it for me. He's everything to me. He's really a part of the reason why. He's going to be remembered in so many ways for me. I feel it's important for me to continue to let my generation know how important he was to music."{{cite web|url=http://www.virginmedia.com/music/pictures/profiles/michael-jackson-influence.php?ssid=5|title=Ciara – Artists influenced by Michael Jackson – Pictures – Music|publisher=Virgin Media|access-date=February 13, 2013}}
Ciara also cites TLC, Jodeci,{{cite web|url=https://www.mm-group.org/talent/ciara/|access-date=June 25, 2022|title=About Ciara}} Sade, Frank Sinatra,{{cite web|url=https://www.wmagazine.com/story/ciara-jackie-new-album-interview|access-date=June 25, 2022|title=Ciara Talks About Jackie|date=April 14, 2015 }} Aaliyah,{{Cite web |title=7 Artists Who Have Been Influenced By Aaliyah's Legacy |url=https://v1019.com/listicle/7-artists-who-have-been-influenced-by-aaliyahs-legacy/ |access-date=2023-03-23 |website=V 101.9 WBAV |date=January 16, 2022 |language=en}} and Whitney Houston{{cite web|url= https://popculture.com/music/news/ciara-pays-tribute-to-whitney-houston-five-years-after-her-deat/|access-date=June 25, 2022|title=Ciara Pays Tribute To Whitney Houston Five Years After Her Death|date=February 11, 2017 }} as some of her other musical influences. Her second studio album Ciara: The Evolution (2006) was influenced by Michael Jackson, Prince, and pop singer Madonna.[http://musicmp3.ru/display_review.html?review_id=624] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120206051622/http://musicmp3.ru/display_review.html?review_id=624|date=February 6, 2012}}
During the recording of her fifth self-titled album Ciara (2013), she was inspired by Al Green and Missy Elliott.{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1696959/ciara-missy-elliott.jhtml|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121109231726/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1696959/ciara-missy-elliott.jhtml|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 9, 2012|title=Ciara Looks To 'Friend' Missy Elliott For Album Advice|first=Nadeska|last=Alexis|date=November 7, 2012|work=MTV News|access-date=July 23, 2013}}
=Stage presence, dancing, and music videos=
File:TODAY Show Concert Series - Ciara (52614241483) (cropped 2).jpg
Ciara has generally received praise for her stage presence and routines during live performances. Dalondo Moultrie of The Morning Call{{'s}} applauded Ciara's stage presence saying that she "put on one of the best performances I have seen yet at [Crocodile Rock]".{{cite news|title=The Week in Review|work=The Morning Call|url=https://www.mcall.com/2006/11/04/the-week-in-review-114/|last=Moultrie|first=Dalondo|date=November 4, 2006|access-date=January 15, 2012|archive-date=November 5, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105014154/http://articles.mcall.com/2006-11-04/features/3702019_1_ciara-ji-orchestra|url-status=live}} Moultrie continued to call her dance steps "incredible", notings her "pelvic thrusts", "body bending twists", "periodic bursts of light", and commending her for being in sync with the music. In summary, he praised Ciara's live performances for their "high-energy songs, sexy dance moves, flawless vocals, and [the] top-flight light show". Sia Michel of The New York Times also praised Ciara's relentless professional presence stating: "Ciara led a squad of hip-hop dancers through stylishly choreographed routines. Striding about in a headset, she was a commanding and relentlessly professional presence."{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/12/arts/music/12ciar.html|title=New Ciara: Grown-Up, Self-Made, Unmussed|last=Michel|first=Sia|date=December 12, 2006|work=The New York Times|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160109091859/http://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/12/arts/music/12ciar.html|archive-date=January 9, 2016|url-status=dead}} Bill White of Seattle Post-Intelligencer wrote that due to Ciara's high energy, "it hardly mattered that she was singing to backing tracks ... Usually this type of performance seems cut-rate and dishonest, but Ciara, with the help of slick lighting and sharp choreography, made it work".{{cite news|url=http://www.seattlepi.com/ae/music/article/Energetic-Ciara-keeps-the-crowd-in-a-sweat-1220006.php |title=Energetic Ciara keeps the crowd in a sweat |last=White |first=Bill |date=November 16, 2006 |access-date=January 15, 2012 |work=Seattle Post-Intelligencer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303221732/http://www.seattlepi.com/ae/music/article/Energetic-Ciara-keeps-the-crowd-in-a-sweat-1220006.php |archive-date=March 3, 2016 |url-status=dead |df=mdy }}
Ciara has still gotten some criticism for her performances, typically relating to her vocals. Jon Caramanica of The New York Times gave a mixed reception of Ciara's performance ability, writing that her physical style reduced her emotional impact, and that her "lack of vocal presence guarantees that it is easier to connect with her music physically than emotionally." Vincent Jackson of The Press of Atlantic City also noted Ciara's limited vocal ability when critiquing her first headlining tour, but praised her confidence and approved of her decision "to put most of her energy into her almost nonstop, aerobic dance performance".{{cite news|title=Grammy-Winner Ciara Dances Her Way Through Debut in Atlantic City|date=December 11, 2006|work=The Press of Atlantic City|url=http://infoweb.newsbank.com/iw-search/we/InfoWeb?p_action=doc&p_topdoc=1&p_docnum=1&p_sort=YMD_date:D&p_product=AWNB&p_text_direct-0=document_id=%28%20115F92FFA3255C38%20%29&p_docid=115F92FFA3255C38&p_theme=aggdocs&p_queryname=115F92FFA3255C38&f_openurl=yes&p|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100804161334/http://infoweb.newsbank.com/iw-search/we/InfoWeb?p_action=doc|archive-date=August 4, 2010|access-date=January 15, 2012|publisher=Abarta|last=Jackson|first=Vincent|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}
Dance is big part of Ciara's artistry and music videos.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/ciara-ester-dean-rooted-video-1043799/|access-date=April 27, 2022|title=Ciara, Ester Dean Show Black Pride Through Dance in 'Rooted' Video|magazine=Rolling Stone |quote=The visual features plenty of impressive dance moves — a trademark of a Ciara video...}}
Writing for The Guardian, Bim Adewunmi said "She makes music to dance to, and her videos are testament to that ... Ciara's currency as a dancer is precision and high difficulty. Her body becomes a sort of human syncopated beat – an urgent thing, parts moving seemingly independently but all working to a greater good. On a purely technical level, her dancing is damn near untouchable".{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2016/nov/19/why-i-love-ciara-bim-adewunmi|access-date=April 27, 2022|title=Why I love… Ciara|website=The Guardian|date=November 19, 2016 }} Ciara's dancing is generally praised and she's often considered one of the best or most emulable dancers in music.{{cite web|url=https://www.bet.com/photo-gallery/5qrlis/jam-on-music-s-best-dancers-since-michael-jackson/nkf8ti|access-date=April 27, 2022|title=Jam On: Music's Best Dancers Since Michael Jackson|website=BET }}{{cite web|url=https://www.popsugar.com/celebrity/ciara-best-dance-videos-on-instagram-47391714|access-date=April 27, 2022|title=Looking For Your Next TikTok Challenge? Ciara's Dance Videos Are a Trove of Inspiration|date=April 17, 2020 |quote=Whether she's breaking it down for a music video or showing off her moves on stage, Ciara is hands down one of the best dancers out there.}}{{cite web|url=https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/watch-ciara-break-down-5-140000312.html|access-date=April 27, 2022|title=Watch Ciara Break Down 5 Iconic Dance Moves to Her New Single, "Dose"|date=October 29, 2018 |quote=If there’s anyone whose dancing you want to copy, it's Ciara's. That’s why we knew we had to ask the singer—currently in the midst of working on her seventh studio album—to break down five of her most iconic moves, so that you can know exactly which one to bust out the next time you need to make waves on the dance floor.}} Ciara's dance ability has been compared to Michael and Janet Jackson.{{cite web|url=https://www.musictimes.com/articles/37753/20150506/ciara-wows-during-jackie-tour-watch-michael-jackson-tribute-review.htm|access-date=April 27, 2022|title=Ciara Wows During 'Jackie Tour,' Performs Michael Jackson Tribute|date=May 6, 2015 |quote= imitating the late pop star and legend,Michael Jackson. Although, she's been compared to Janet Jackson since her start, Ciara dominated his moves effortlessly in a mini tribute.}} Her dancing is often described as sexy, energetic, and precise.{{cite web|url=https://blavity.com/meet-the-choreographers-behind-ciaras-most-iconic-two-steps?category1=culture&category2=news|access-date=April 27, 2022|title=Meet The Choreographers Behind Ciara's Most Iconic Two Steps|date=August 16, 2016 }}{{cite web|url=https://www.eonline.com/news/677653/ciara-s-dance-like-we-re-making-love-music-video-is-damn-sexy-watch-now|access-date=April 27, 2022|title=Ciara's Dance Like We're Making Love Music Video Is Damn Sexy—Watch Now!|date=July 18, 2015 }} Ciara is noted for her often tomboyish dance aesthetic and androgynous choreography, particularly in her videos for 1, 2 Step and Like A Boy. Ciara's style of dancing is generally street, but she has also done ballroom and step in her videos and performances.{{cite web|url=https://www.bustle.com/articles/98169-ciaras-dance-like-were-making-love-music-video-is-as-stylish-as-it-is-sexy-and|access-date=April 27, 2022|title=Ciara's Music Video Style Is Just As Sexy As Ever|date=July 18, 2015 }}{{cite web|url=https://rnbphilly.com/2318481/ciara-shows-off-dance-moves-at-sprite-step-off-competition-video/|access-date=April 27, 2022|title= Ciara Shows Off Dance Moves At Sprite Step Off Competition|date=April 4, 2011 }} Ciara also did an interpretive dance routine in pointe shoes for her I Bet music video, though her use of the shoes prompted some backlash from the ballet community.{{cite web|url=https://dancespirit.com/ciara-wears-pointe-shoes-video/|access-date=April 27, 2022|title=Ciara Wears Pointe Shoes, Dancers Everywhere Cringe|date=March 9, 2015 }}
=Alter ego=
{{Quote box |quote="Super C is a character that people will learn more about on this record. That is my alter ego. Super C doesn't hold back. She is definitely aggressive. She goes hard. Super C can do some magical and funky things. She works hard. She dances to the 10th power. She does everything to the 10th power."|source = — Ciara, speaking on her alter ego Super C.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.contactmusic.com/news/ciara-becomes-super-c-onstage_1085752|title=Ciara Becomes Super C Onstage|magazine=Contactmusic.com|date=November 5, 2008|access-date=August 6, 2013}} |align=left|width=27%}}
At the time of Fantasy Ride's (2009) release, Ciara introduced her alter ego "Super C". Ciara said that Super C is her "inner strength and aggressive persona" – a futuristic, superhero-esque woman, loosely based on the robotic character Ciara portrayed in the "Go Girl" music video. Ciara described her reasoning for developing an alter ego, "There's so much negative energy in the world, especially within the blogging world, they try so hard to tear you down. [With the superhero concept] it's like, 'I refuse to let you and that negative energy tear me down or stop any blessing that I know is there for me.' That's when the inner superhero comes out."{{cite web|last=Axelrod|first=Nick|url=http://www.wwd.com/fashion-blogs/super_c_behind_ciaras_superher-09-04|title=Super C: Behind Ciara's Superhero Alter Ego – Fashion, Beauty and Retail Blogs|work=The Insiders - WWD Blog |publisher=WWD.com|date=April 2, 2009|access-date=August 6, 2013}}
Impact
With the release of her debut single "Goodies", Ciara was dubbed the Princess of Crunk{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/ciara-princess-of-crunk-123774/|access-date=March 19, 2022|title=Ciara, Princess of Crunk|magazine=Rolling Stone|date=October 20, 2004}}{{cite web|url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/15-years-ago-crime-mobs-knuck-if-you-buck-made-a-blueprint-for-crunk-music/|access-date=March 18, 2022|title=15 Years Ago, 'Knuck If You Buck' Made a Blueprint for Crunk Music|date=June 28, 2019 }} or the First Lady of Crunk&B.{{cite web|last=Gennoe|first=Dan|url=http://uk.launch.yahoo.com/070413/33/217mw.html|title=Ciara The Evolution Album Review|date=April 13, 2007|publisher=Yahoo! Inc|access-date=December 17, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070427183632/http://uk.launch.yahoo.com/070413/33/217mw.html|archive-date=April 27, 2007}} In the early to mid-2000s, "Goodies" along with other crunk music hits like "Get Low", "Yeah!" and "Freek-a-Leek" produced by Lil Jon climbed to the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 charts. "Yeah!" and "Goodies" were the first tracks to introduce the substyle of crunk music and contemporary R&B, called crunk&B, to the public. Both of those tracks (performed by Usher and Ciara, respectively) were the top mainstream hits of 2004.{{cite news|url=http://www.vh1.com/news/articles/1538791/story.jhtml|last=Shepherd|first=Julianne|title=Soul Bounce: Crunk 'n' B 101|date=August 18, 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070913142524/http://www.vh1.com/news/articles/1538791/story.jhtml|archive-date=September 13, 2007}} Since then, crunk&B has been one of the most popular genres of sung African-American music along with electropop, the genre that replaced crunk and crunk&B on the charts in 2008. "Goodies" spent seven weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the longest-running number-one debut single by a female artist since 1977.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/charts/2004-06-26/hot-100|title=The Hot 100 : June 26, 2004 | Billboard Chart Archive|magazine=Billboard|date=June 26, 2004|access-date=April 2, 2014}}
The album's lead single's success exemplified urban music's commercial dominance during the early 2000s, which featured massive crossover success on the Billboard charts by R&B and hip hop artists. In 2004, all 12 songs that topped the Billboard Hot 100 were African-American recording artists and accounted for 80% of the number-one R&B hits that year. Along with Usher's streak of singles, Top 40 radio and both pop and R&B charts were topped by OutKast's "Hey Ya!", Snoop Dogg's "Drop It Like It's Hot", Terror Squad's "Lean Back", and Ciara's "Goodies". Chris Molanphy of The Village Voice later remarked that "by the early 2000s, urban music was pop music."{{cite web|last=Molanphy|first=Chris|date=July 16, 2012|url=http://blogs.villagevoice.com/music/2012/07/sales_slump_usher_chris_brown.php?page=2|title=100 & Single: The R&B/Hip-Hop Factor In The Music Business's Endless Slump|publisher=The Village Voice Blogs. Village Voice Media|access-date=July 16, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120720033330/http://blogs.villagevoice.com/music/2012/07/sales_slump_usher_chris_brown.php?page=2|archive-date=July 20, 2012}}
Ciara is considered to be "one of the most reliable suppliers" of beat-driven party music and the female face of crunk.{{cite news|url=https://time.com/3844308/ciara-jackie-review/|access-date=February 10, 2022|title=Review: Ciara Stays in Her Lane on Jackie—And That's A Good Thing|quote='Once billed as the first lady of Crunk&B, she’s become one of the most reliable suppliers of frothy, light-on-its-feet party music, mixing the freshest parts of R&B and hip-hop with the drum-machine beats of decades past.'}}{{cite web|url=https://albumism.com/reviews/ciara-beauty-marks|access-date=February 10, 2022|title= Ciara Achieves Her Career Pinnacle to Date with 'Beauty Marks':Album Review|date=May 13, 2019 |quote='it was the Atlanta, Georgia headquartered singer-songwriter-dancer Ciara Harris that became crunk’s female face ... an alliance between the hip-hop super strain and contemporary R&B that echoed the R&B and hip-hop coalescence of the late 1980s that birthed new jack swing'}} Her debut album has been credited with helping "return R&B to Atlanta" and setting the standard for a new generation of R&B singers.{{cite web|url=https://thisisrnb.com/2019/09/15-years-later-a-look-back-on-ciaras-goodies-album/|access-date=April 25, 2022|title=15 YEARS LATER: A LOOK BACK ON CIARA'S 'GOODIES' ALBUM|date=September 28, 2019 }} Many female R&B and K-pop acts have had their image or style of music compared to Ciara's.{{cite web|url=https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/19590-twigs-lp1/|access-date= February 22, 2022|title=LP1: FKA twigs|website= Pitchfork|quote='The most obvious reference points, aside from the spectrum of breathy, synth-heavy R&B that stretches from Ciara through the Weeknd and Beyoncé .... There are also clear links to contemporary UK artists working the margins between R&B and electronic music, like James Blake, the xx, and even Sophie'}}{{cite web|url=https://www.vox.com/2014/9/1/6082461/the-debut-album-music-critics-are-raving-over|access-date=February 22, 2022|title=Meet FKA Twigs, the next big name in R&B|date=September 2014|quote='In a review of her album in Pitchfork, Philip Sherburne listed artists ranging from Ciara and Beyoncé to James Blake, the xx, and Kate Bush as potential influences'}}{{cite web|url= https://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/18777-jhene-aiko-sail-out-ep/|access-date= February 10, 2022|title= Sail Out EP: Jhené Aiko|website= Pitchfork|quote= 'The recent adoration of artist like Ciara ... may have provided a perfect incubator for a singer like Jhené Aiko}}{{cite news|url= https://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/05/arts/music/tinashes-aquarius-an-rb-slink.html|access-date=February 28, 2022|title=A Voice That Oozes Instead of Shouts|website=The New York Times|date=October 3, 2014|quote=Tinashe has taken a path charted by Janet Jackson, Aaliyah, Ciara and others...|last1=Caramanica|first1=Jon}}{{cite web|url=https://allhiphop.com/alternatives/cherish-back-for-the-first-time/|access-date=July 20, 2022|title=Cherish: Back For The First Time|date=June 2006 }}{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-album-reviews/teyana-taylors-the-album-1018585/|access-date=July 20, 2022|title=Teyana Taylor's 'The Album' Soars and Sags|magazine=Rolling Stone |date=June 22, 2020 }}{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/girls-generation-catch-me-if-you-can-video-6531160/|access-date=July 20, 2022|title=Girls' Generation Show Mind-Blowing Dance Routine in 'Catch Me If You Can' Video|magazine=Billboard }}{{cite web|url=https://grungecake.com/cl-2ne1-hello-bitches/articles/29956|access-date=July 20, 2022|title=South Korean it-girl CL (2NE1) crosses over with "Hello Bitches." Supported by Justin Bieber and manager Scooter Braun.|date=November 29, 2015 }}{{cite web|url=https://www.toneglow.net/features/tag/K-Pop|title=First Quarter Report 2018: Korean Music|date=April 16, 2018 |access-date=January 20, 2023}} Ciara peaked commercially in the mid-2000s, but she continued releasing hit songs in the 2010s. Billboard writer Natalie Weiner said that Ciara's 2013 hit "Body Party" was "one of [her] biggest and most critically acclaimed songs".{{cite magazine|url= https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/ciara-body-party-future-anniversary-video-interview-8230183/|access-date=February 10, 2022|title=Ciara's 'Body Party' Turns 5: How the Song Brought Ciara and Future Together|magazine=Billboard}} It was certified double platinum in the U.S. and received numerous accolades.{{cite web|url=https://www.riaa.com/gold-platinum/?tab_active=default-award&ar=Ciara+&ti=Body+Party&lab=&genre=&format=&date_option=release&from=&to=&award=&type=&category=&adv=SEARCH#search_section|access-date=March 19, 2022|website=RIAA|title=Gold & Platinum}}{{cite web|url=http://pitchfork.com/features/lists-and-guides/9466-the-200-best-tracks-of-the-decade-so-far-2010-2014/?page=9| work= Pitchfork Media | title=The 200 Best Tracks of the Decade So Far (2010-2014) | date=December 2013}}{{cite web|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/list/5840322/20-best-songs-of-2013-critics-picks| work= The Village Voice | title= 20 best songs of 2013 Critics Picks | date=December 18, 2013}}{{cite web |url=https://www.bet.com/photo-gallery/6fcyj6/soul-train-awards-2013-winners/6xoqog |title=Soul Train Awards 2013 Winners |work=BET.com |access-date=March 21, 2022}} Ciara's 2015 single "I Bet" also went platinum in the U.S.{{cite web|url=https://www.riaa.com/2015-gold-platinum-awards-year-in-review/|access-date=February 28, 2022|website=RIAA|title=2015 Gold & Platinum Awards - Year In Review|date=January 14, 2016}} Pitchfork journalist Katherine St. Asaph took note of Ciara's longevity, and responded to her reemergence in 2018:
"Ciara's "Goodies" came out almost 15 years ago. That's a testament to just how improbably resilient Ciara's career has been. Though she's never quite regained that initial "princess of crunk-n-B" level of mainstream stardom, she has sustained a cult fanbase and delivered a remarkably consistent run of songs to back it up.{{cite web|url=https://pitchfork.com/reviews/tracks/ciara-level-up|date=July 18, 2018|access-date=February 11, 2022|title="Level Up" Ciara|website=Pitchfork}}
Ciara's viral 2018 hit "Level Up" was likely the most saturated hit single of her career.{{cite web|url=https://www.popbuzz.com/music/news/ciara-level-up-challenge/|access-date=February 10, 2022|title=Ciara's 'Level Up' Video Has Inspired A Dance Challenge That's BREAKING The Internet|date=July 19, 2018 }}{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/ciara-level-up-challenge-videos-8466823/|access-date=February 10, 2022|title=Chris Pratt, Kelly Clarkson & More Participate in Ciara's New 'Level Up' Challenge: Watch|magazine=Billboard}}{{cite web|url=https://www.popsugar.com/celebrity/What-Level-Up-Challenge-45122456|access-date=February 10, 2022|title=The "Level Up" Challenge Is a Viral Sensation, but It Also Has an Inspiring Double Meaning|date=August 2, 2018}} Along with the wildly popular #LevelUp dance challenge that accompanied, the song was pushed to the forefront of Arizona politician Mark Kelly's winning campaign for the senate.{{cite web|url=https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/mark-kelly-becomes-4th-astronaut-elected-to-congress1/|access-date=February 10, 2022|title=Mark Kelly Becomes 4th Astronaut Elected to Congress|website=Scientific American}} The song is also noted for helping to bring Jersey and Baltimore club music to the mainstream, with the former being incorporated into its production.{{cite web|url=https://www.sparky.wtf/news/bandmanrill-jersey-club-movement|access-date=July 7, 2022|title=Bandmanrill and the Rise of Jersey Club|work=Sparky |quote='Popstar, Ciara, released a track called “Level up” which was distinctly influenced by Jersey club. The song became an online phenomenon almost instantly and the now platinum record is currently sitting at over 300 million views on YouTube alone. It was the exposure that Jersey club needed; this viral moment represents the beginning of the foray of Jersey Club sonics into mainstream records.'}}{{cite web|url=https://www.music-house.co.uk/eurosolution/news_article.html?newsitem_id=4129|access-date=July 7, 2022|title=Vibe (If I Back It Up)" Cookiee Kawaii}}{{cite web|url=https://www.theringer.com/music/2022/6/30/23188882/beyonce-drake-house-jersey-baltimore-club|access-date=July 7, 2022|title=Drake and Beyoncé Are Making House and Club Music. How Are Those Communities Reacting?|date=June 30, 2022 }} Ciara's music in general is popular and influential amongst club and underground music producers, with many remixes sampling her voice gaining popularity over the years.{{cite web|url=https://www.vibe.com/gallery/10-artists-who-should-remix-ciaras-body-party-150888/|access-date=January 22, 2023|title=10 Artists Who Should Remix Ciara's 'Body Party'|date=April 24, 2013 |quote=Ciara’s body of work has been strip-mined by dance music artists in search of valuable remix materials for years, and much to our benefit.}}{{cite web|url=https://ra.co/reviews/34387|access-date=January 22, 2023|title=Rewind: Jacques Greene - Another Girl|quote=Of all the club songs to sample Ciara—and there were a lot of them around then—is the pinnacle, especially because of the respect and restraint Greene practices with the source material. It's hard to overstate the influence that contemporary R&B had over club music at the turn of the last decade, and it wasn't only the vocalists.}} Canadian underground producer Jacques Greene was convinced to prioritize his music career after his song "Another Girl", which leaned on her vocals, gained traction.{{cite web|url=https://ra.co/reviews/34387|access-date=January 22, 2023|title=Rewind: Jacques Greene - Another Girl|quote=Though in hindsight it may not be the most obvious club hit, "Another Girl" was a paradigm shift. It encouraged Greene to go full-time with music, and now he's one of the most successful Canadian electronic artists going. It helped predict the direction that UK club music would go in after 2011, as the motley crew of post-dubstep producers started to converge on house.}}{{cite web|url=https://pitchfork.com/features/lists-and-guides/9466-the-200-best-tracks-of-the-decade-so-far-2010-2014/|title=The 200 Best Tracks of the Decade So Far (2010-2014)|website=Pitchfork |date=August 18, 2014 }} Latin R&B artist Rauw Alejandro admired Ciara early in his career because her music was 'club-friendly' and 'ripe for remixing'.{{cite web|url=https://www.onyxroom.com/why-rauw-alejandros-live-performances-are-so-special/|access-date=January 22, 2023|title= Why You Don't Want To Miss Rauw Alejandro Live|date=March 24, 2022 }}
Ciara has been credited with elevating the standard of dance, choreography, and visual art in her respective generation, and is regarded as an icon within the fields of dance, entertainment, and R&B for her contributions.{{cite web|url=https://www.ebony.com/entertainment/ciara-host-billboards-women-in-music-awards/|access-date=February 10, 2022|title=Ciara to Host Billboard's Women in Music Awards|date=January 31, 2022|quote='R&B and dance icon Ciara has been tapped to host Billboard’s Women in Music Awards, according to The Hollywood Reporter.'}}{{cite web|url=https://www.thefader.com/2015/07/22/ciara-dance-video-legacy|access-date=February 10, 2022|title= 9 Times Ciara Set A New Standard For Pop Dance Videos}}{{cite web|url= https://blog.alaskaair.com/alaska-airlines/ciara-beyond-magazine/|access-date=February 10, 2022|title=A music and fashion icon moves beyond the stage|date=January 2020}} According to The Fader, Ciara positioned herself as a "tomboyish, androgynous alternative" to her peers and the gender-swapping looks from her "Like A Boy" video both predates similar efforts from artists like Beyoncé and Lady Gaga, and made gender-swapping "cool" for female popstars. The publication also said her dance videos created a template for artists like Tinashe and raised discussion on female sexuality before feminism became more prominent in the music industry. On July 28, 2024, Ciara was honored with her own official day in Atlanta.{{cite web|url=https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/ciara-honored-official-day-atlanta.amp|access-date=July 30, 2024|title=Ciara honored with her own official day in Atlanta|date=July 30, 2024}}
Ciara has been cited as a musical influence or inspiration by many artists, including Ari Lennox,{{cite web|url= https://www.gq.com/story/ari-lennox-interview|access-date= February 28, 2022|website=GQ|title=Ari Lennox Went from Uber Driving to Headlining Her Own Tour|date= June 17, 2019|quote='But I'm also inspired by ... Ciara ... I've listened to [her], studied [her]}}{{cite web|url= https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4J13-hfxYao&feature=youtu.be |access-date= January 20, 2022|title= 'Ari Lennox says sharing a stage with Ciara, India.Arie, And Erykah Badu "Felt Like A Dream"'|website= YouTube|date= August 27, 2019|quote= 'If I could just look at her for the rest of my life that would be great. Like , so beautiful and good energy. Her first album changed my life like ... it just seems like all my dreams came true!'}} Baby Tate,{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/music/features/baby-tate-is-all-grown-up-now-1235141548/|access-date=December 18, 2022|title = Baby Tate is All Grown Up|magazine=Billboard |quote=Drawing from her Atlanta community, both in support and inspiration, Baby Tate’s musical catalog touches influences from Gucci Mane and Ciara, to Ludacris}} Chloe × Halle,{{cite web|url=https://www.highsnobiety.com/p/chloe-and-halle-interview/|access-date=May 29, 2021|title= The Kids Are More Than Alright: Chloe × Halle Are Killing It|date=June 11, 2020|quote= 'Atlanta music is so incredible. We've always been so inspired by ... Ciara'}} DaniLeigh,{{cite web|url=http://www.sheenmagazine.com/the-vibe-formally-known-as-danileigh-2/|access-date=August 14, 2022|title=DaniLeigh gives SHEEN an exclusive one of a kind look into her life, music, and the motivation of behind her art.|date=December 31, 2019|quote='Who are some of your vocal influences?' 'used to love Aaliyah when I was younger. Alicia Keys, Jhené Aiko, I was definitely inspired by them, Ciara for singing and dancing, and definitely Rihanna.'|archive-date=August 14, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220814143301/http://www.sheenmagazine.com/the-vibe-formally-known-as-danileigh-2/|url-status=dead}} Dawn Richard,{{cite tweet|user=DawnRichard|author=DAWN|number=917829073069416448|date=October 10, 2017|title=Thank U 2 everyone who loved the renegades dance story & the queens who inspired me as a dancer Janet, Ciara, Mya, Aaliyah, Missy, Madonna}} Dua Lipa,{{cite magazine|url=https://www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/art-books-music/news/a20019/dua-lipa-interview/|access-date=August 14, 2022|title=Dua Lipa Recovered from a Rough Modeling Career to Become a Pop Sensation|magazine=Harper's Bazaar|date=January 31, 2017 |quote=I feel like growing up in a musical household and always being surrounded by it, I was always kind of a performer child...It was something that I always loved to do. It was kind of inevitable, I guess, my love for music. I've always been so in love with it and so inspired by it from making shows in the living room and doing dance routines in the school playground to like, "1, 2 Step" by Ciara and Missy Elliott.}} Flo,{{cite web|url=https://www.grammy.com/news/girl-groups-timeline-evolution-blackpink-spice-girls-tlc-destinys-child-supremes-k-pop-songs-music-womens-history-month|access-date=February 13, 2024|website=Recording Academy|title=The Evolution Of The Girl Group: How TLC, BLACKPINK, The Shirelles & More Have Elevated Female Expression|quote=A British girl group whose members pull from their individual cultures to create a unique, hip-hop influenced sound, Flo was also influenced by artists like Ciara and Amy Winehouse.}} Girls' Generation,{{cite book |last=Anderson |first= Crystal S.|date= August 25, 2020|title=Soul in Seoul: African American Popular Music and K-pop|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=knv3DwAAQBAJ|location=Jackson, Mississippi|publisher=University Press of Mississippi|isbn=9781496830135|quote=In a Billboard interview, member Tiffany says, “Our main goal was to not be visually entertaining but be vocally entertaining,” and goes on to reference African American singers Ciara and Rihanna as inspiration (Benjamin 2014)}}{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/girls-generation-tts-holler-interview-video-6251587/|access-date=May 1, 2022|title=Girls' Generation-TTS on Why New 'Holler' EP Represents Their 'Mind, Body and Soul'|magazine=Billboard }} Grimes,{{cite web|url=https://www.musicworks.ca/featured-article/featured-article/braids-grimes-and-doldrums|access-date=January 20, 2023|title=Braids, Grimes, and Doldrums|quote=Grimes’ music is much more influenced by modern dance music, at the same time ... It also marks a challenge to our collective notions of what constitutes experimental music ... “I do consider my music experimental, because generally it’s kind of an experiment for me whenever I make something, even if it’s, like, ‘can I get this production to sound like Rihanna?[...] There’s lots of music that I consider experimental that isn’t treated as such in the media, such as Ciara, because the term doesn’t fit with her public image."}} Haim,{{cite web|url=https://thefortyfive.com/interviews/haim-interview-cover-story-2020/|access-date=June 25, 2022|title=Haim|date=July 15, 2020 |quote=They’ve tentatively started writing new material, and absorbed themselves deep in listening; Arca’s new album for Este and buckets of Joni for Danielle, while Alana has been “very nostalgic for my bat mitzvah seventh-grade era of my life. I’ve been listening to a lot of ‘1, 2 Step’ by Ciara and Missy Elliot}} Iza,{{cite web|url=https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=pVlAAN1hdeU&feature=share|access-date=March 1, 2022|website=YouTube Music|title=Evapora|quote=You know, back in Brazil you're just such a huge reference for all the black girls, and actually for me too. Our dancers were crying on the way here ... this is really important for us}} Jackson Wang,{{cite web|url=https://www.nme.com/en_au/news/music/jackson-wang-ciara-coachella-xg-left-right-3431293|access-date=April 19, 2023|title=Watch Jackson Wang and Ciara perform XG's 'Left Right' at Coachella|website=NME |date=April 17, 2023 |quote=“I just wanna say, thank you so much. You inspired me ... On behalf for everybody, I wanna thank you, we wanna thank you for who you are, and thank you for being such a big part of our lives. We’re too blessed to have you.”}} Jesy Nelson,{{cite web|url=https://www.papermag.com/jesy-nelson-nicki-minaj-boyz-2655251648.html|access-date=October 8, 2021|title = Jesy Nelson Can't Be Stopped|website=Paper|quote = 'And I've got so many influences. Missy Elliott is one of them. Ciara is another. All the old school bands like Jagged Edge, ATL, 112, B2K... I could literally go on forever, but for me personally, that era is the best music that was ever made.}} Jhené Aiko,{{cite web|url= https://www.factmag.com/2013/07/16/jhene-aiko-announces-sail-out-ep-featuring-kendrick-lamar-ab-soul/|access-date= March 24, 2023|title=Jhené Aiko announces Sail Out EP featuring Kendrick Lamar, Ab-Soul|date= July 16, 2013|quote=Taking cues from Ciara and Nicki Minaj, Aiko’s rap altar ego J. Hennessey will also make an appearance.}} Kehlani,{{cite web|url= https://music.apple.com/mv/post/1584196076|access-date=September 5, 2021|title= Ciara & Kehlani's full interview on Level Up Radio|website=Apple Music|quote='I'm not sure if you realize the impact you have on my generation and class of artist specifically ... you are like very legendary and I hope they give you all the legend awards ... thank you for just like, trailblazing'}} Keke Palmer,{{cite web|title=5 questions for … KeKe Palmer |work=Business Library |via=FindArticles.com |last=Henderson |first=Shirley |url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1077/is_2_63/ai_n21147752/|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120615171434/http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1077/is_2_63/ai_n21147752/|archive-date=June 15, 2012|access-date=July 12, 2012}} Kyla,{{cite news |last1=Bautista |first1=Mary Ann |title=Kyla enjoys performing more than recording |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=O1Y1AAAAIBAJ&dq=kyla+influences&pg=PA37&article_id=1158,33674866 |access-date=June 23, 2023 |newspaper=Philippine Daily Inquirer |date=May 7, 2005 |page=A2 |via=Google Books |archive-date=August 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230806205917/https://books.google.com/books?id=O1Y1AAAAIBAJ&dq=kyla+influences&pg=PA37&article_id=1158,33674866 |url-status=live }} LaTocha Scott,{{cite web|url=https://thisisrnb.com/2015/06/new-music-latocha-knee-deep/|access-date=July 7, 2022|title=NEW MUSIC: LATOCHA – KNEE DEEP|date=June 26, 2015 |quote=LaTocha, the former lead singer of the Xscape, finds inspiration in Ciara’s previous hit “Body Party,”...LaTocha commended Ciara for keeping the sexy movement going, and for giving women a voice to express their sexual desires without being labeled as a freak.}} Latto,{{cite web|url=https://power961.iheart.com/featured/dunkin-music-lounge-atl/content/2023-02-10-latto-talks-favorite-rappers-drag-racing-being-a-writer/|access-date=February 20, 2024|title=Latto talks favorite rappers, drag racing, being a writer|quote=Latto recalls Atlanta artist, Ciara, as one of her Atlanta influences when it comes to becoming an artist. "We were on the set of Goodies and I fell in love with Ciara." Alongside Ciara, Latto names Gucci Mane, OutKast, and T.I. as some of her Atlanta influences.}} Layton Greene,{{cite web|url=https://fomoblog.com/2019/07/10/layton-greene-on-signing-to-quality-control-kodak-black-sliding-into-her-dms/|access-date=February 28, 2022|title=Layton Greene On Signing To Quality Control & Kodak Black Sliding Into Her DM's|quote='What inspired your latest single “Leave Em Alone”?' 'Ciara, of course. That was the inspiration. That was a sample of her song with 50 Cent, I actually heard the record by Hitmaka'}} Lil Mama,{{cite web|url=https://www.instagram.com/p/Bjc-9ZMAkLX/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/iarchive/instagram/celebsloveciara/1791583649603404503 |archive-date=2021-12-23 |url-access=subscription|access-date=May 29, 2021|title= Lil Mama pays homage to Ciara|quote='This Girl Was & Still Is My Role Model'}}{{cbignore}} Masego,{{cite web|url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/masego-new-music-studying-abroad-ep-interview/|access-date=May 29, 2022|title=Masego Wants to Be More Than A Sax-Wielding Ladies Man|date=November 16, 2020 |quote="Mystery Lady" is a love song about a woman he's never met, inspired by Ciara and Bow Wow's "Like You"; it's a two-year old song he and his band used to warm up to during sound check, though he still sounds unsure about whether he's meant to be with just one woman.}}{{cite web|url=https://www.vogue.com/article/masego-on-self-care-and-creating-a-sonic-getaway-with-his-new-ep|access-date=May 29, 2022|title=Masego on Self-Care and Creating a Sonic Getaway With His New EP|date=November 11, 2020 }} Normani,{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/normani-ciara-impact-solo-album-almost-done-1235014825/|access-date=December 30, 2021|title=Normani Gushes to Childhood Icon Ciara About Her Impact, Says Debut Album Is 'Almost Done'|magazine=Billboard|quote='You’re somebody that I’ve looked up to forever. I always felt like representation was so key. And being a little girl, in my grandmother’s living room, learning the ‘1, 2 Step,’ ‘Goodies.’ From literally the earliest memories that I have, you are a part of that and you really helped shape the woman and the artist that I could be. You opened my mind to those possibilities.'}} Rauw Alejandro,{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/us/post/1589152842|access-date=February 10, 2022|website=Apple Music|title=Level Up Radio with guest Rauw Alejandro|quote= 'It's a pleasure to be talking with you. I'm a big fan. Thankyou for inspiring, y'know, males & females cuz' .... you've been killing the game for awhile & you're a superstar so it's an honor to be talking with you'}} Scott Hoying,{{cite web|url=https://people.com/celebrity/pentatonix-songs-playlist-for-people/|access-date=May 2, 2022|title=8 Tunes to Get You Through the Weekend, Courtesy Pentatonix|quote='we [asked] about the songs that inspire them most'}} Tate McRae,{{cite web|url=https://www.numeromag.nl/conversation-tate-mcrae|access-date=May 1, 2022|title=IN CONVERSATION WITH TATE MCRAE|date=November 5, 2021 |quote='Who and why are your biggest influences in the music industry?' 'obviously as a dancer and a singer, I've always looked up to on stage performances from Britney Spears or J.Lo, or Ciara, dancers who fully bring a performance on stage.'}} Taylor Swift,{{cite web|url=https://www.iheart.com/content/2019-05-15-taylor-swift-credits-dixie-chicks-trio-for-helping-her-think-bigger/|access-date=May 5, 2022|title=Taylor Swift Credits Dixie Chicks Trio For Helping Her To 'Think Bigger'|quote=Taylor, who is known for being crafty, creative, and launching flawless marketing campaigns, also credits Drake, Ciara, Lana Del Rey, and Alanis Morissette for her overall craft.}} Tierra Whack,{{cite web|url=https://gossipchimp.com/rapper-tierra-whack-wears-all-the-black-women-in-music-who-inspire-her-on-1-incredible-dress/|access-date=February 27, 2022|title=Rapper Tierra Whack Wears All the Black Women in Music Who Inspire Her on 1 Incredible Dress|date=March 3, 2021|quote='Frankly, that is the one strategy to recognize this graphic midi lined in photographs of Mary J. Blige, Lauryn Hill, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Solange, Alicia Keys, Cardi B, Queen Latifah, Aaliyah, Megan Thee Stallion, Ciara, Missy Elliott, Janelle Monáe, Ashanti ...}}{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/tierra-whack-visionary-women/pl.667756ea9bef4eef82bf1676551a9c00|access-date=February 27, 2022|title=Tierra Whack: Visionary Women}} Tinashe,{{cite news|url= https://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/05/arts/music/tinashes-aquarius-an-rb-slink.html|access-date=February 28, 2022|title=A Voice That Oozes Instead of Shouts|website=The New York Times|date=October 3, 2014|quote='Tinashe has taken a path charted by Janet Jackson, Aaliyah, Ciara and others: She’s a low-key sensualist with a mild undertow of brooding. She doesn’t sing with bombast, but rather in smoothly spread out phrases somewhere between whisper and lip lick.'|last1=Caramanica|first1=Jon}}{{cite web|url= https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QY9j_v1qU7g&feature=youtu.be |access-date=May 29, 2021|title=Tinashe at Powerhouse, talks not going to prom, Andre 3000, Ciara, and goals in music|website=YouTube|date=November 5, 2014 |quote='Is [Ciara] somebody that you looked up to or admired at some point in your career?' 'Yeah, I mean Ciara's a super talented individual .... you can also look to people who bring something cool to the table as inspiration...'}} Victoria Monét,{{cite web|url=https://www.complex.com/music/a/j-mckinney/victoria-monet-interview|access-date=December 7, 2023|title=Victoria Monét On How Motherhood Changed Her Vocal Tone, 'Jaguar II,' And Dream Feature|website=Complex Networks |quote=Directed by Child., the video pays homage to iconic artists like Ciara and Destiny's Child with her style choices and visual aesthetics}} and 2ne1.{{cite web|url=https://www.scmp.com/magazines/48hrs/article/1432656/2ne1-announce-hong-kong-concert-march-support-new-album-crush|access-date=January 20, 2023|title=2NE1 announce Hong Kong concert in March to support new album, Crush|date=February 26, 2014 |quote= The group claims influences from a range of musical genres and acts outside of South Korea. Vocalist and rapper Minji "Minzy" Gong ... offers up Ciara, Michael and Janet Jackson, for example}}{{cite web|url=https://thatgrapejuice.net/2014/12/watch-2ne1-perform-crush-live-sbs-gayo-daejun-2014/|access-date=January 20, 2023|title=Watch: 2NE1 Perform 'Crush' Live At 'SBS Gayo Daejun 2014'|work=..::That Grape Juice.net::.. - Thirsty? |date=December 24, 2014 |quote=The Ciara-inspired force that is 2NE1 took ‘2014 SBS Gayo Daejun’ by storm earlier this week, taking to the star-studded event to perform their #1 single ‘Come Back Home’ and the explosive ‘Crush.‘}} Ciara's public relationships have inspired K. Michelle and Summer Walker to release tracks titled "Ciara's Prayer".{{cite web|url = https://celebrityinsider.org/k-michelle-praises-ciara-for-doing-this-for-her-and-reveals-a-bold-new-career-move-that-will-take-her-to-the-next-level-366475/|access-date = October 30, 2021|title = K. Michelle Praises Ciara For Doing This For Her And Reveals A Bold New Career Move That Will Take Her To The Next Level|date = February 5, 2020|quote = 'She's one of my favorite artists ... she was one of the first artists to really give me advice ... To see her happy and in love, and every woman wants that feeling, to feel like that, I wanted to know what prayer she prayed.'}}{{citation|url = https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/summer-walker-reveals-she-close-013347178.html|access-date = October 29, 2021|title = "Summer Walker Reveals That She Will Close Out Her New Album With 'Ciara's Prayer' And Twitter Is In A Frenzy"|quote = '... Summer Walker revealed the tracklist for her upcoming album today and confirmed that she will close out the new project with a track entitled “Ciara’s Prayer.”'|archive-date = October 30, 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211030043043/https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/summer-walker-reveals-she-close-013347178.html|url-status = dead}}
Personal life
In 2013, Ciara became engaged to rapper Future, with whom she has a son, born on May 19, 2014. She ended their engagement in August 2014.
File:Obama & Abe Greet Russell Wilson & Ciara 2015 (cropped).jpg meeting Barack Obama and Shinzō Abe at the White House in 2015]]
Ciara began dating NFL quarterback Russell Wilson in early 2015. They announced their engagement on March 11, 2016.{{cite web|url=http://www.eonline.com/news/649631/ciara-is-dating-seattle-seahawks-quarterback-russell-wilson-and-it-s-been-constant-laughter-and-fun-so-far|title=Ciara Is Dating Seattle Seahawks Quarterback Russell Wilson and It's Been Constant Laughter and Fun So Far!|date=April 23, 2015|work=E! Online|accessdate=February 7, 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/ciara-russell-wilson-are-engaged-seattle-seahawks-quarterback-shares-sweet-video-w166998|title=Ciara and Russell Wilson Engaged|date=March 11, 2016}} USWeeky.com Retrieved March 11, 2016 They married on July 6 at Peckforton Castle in Cheshire, England.{{cite news|last1=Harrison|first1=Lily|title=Ciara and Russell Wilson Are Married!|url=http://www.eonline.com/news/776433/ciara-and-russell-wilson-are-married|access-date=July 6, 2016|work=E! Online|agency=E! Entertainment Television, LLC|publisher=NBCUniversal|date=July 6, 2016|location=United States}} Ciara took Wilson's last name when they married.{{cite web |title= Ciara Took New Husband Russell Wilson's Last Name When They Married|url=https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/ciara-took-russell-wilsons-last-name-when-they-married-w429428/|website=usweekly.com |date=July 15, 2016|publisher=Us Weekly}} She and Wilson have three children together, born in 2017, 2020 and 2023 respectively.{{cite news|last1=Mizoguchi|first1=Karen|last2=Juneau|first2=Jen|title=Ciara and Russell Wilson Welcome Daughter Sienna Princess|url=https://people.com/parents/ciara-russell-wilson-welcome-daughter-sienna-princess/ |access-date=February 18, 2019|work=People|date=April 29, 2017|location=United States}}{{cite web|title=Meet Ciara and Russell Wilson's newborn son, Win|url=https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/culture/story/ciara-husband-russell-wilson-baby-boy-71969897|access-date=July 25, 2020|website=Good Morning America|language=en}}{{cite web |last1=Sacks |first1=Andaloro |last2=Hannah |first2=Angela |title=Ciara Welcomes Baby No. 4, Daughter Amora Princess with Russell Wilson |url=https://people.com/ciara-welcomes-baby-no-4-with-husband-russell-wilson-8382596 |website=People |access-date=11 December 2023}}
Ciara identifies as a Christian.{{Cite web |title=Photo of Ciara, Russell Wilson Worshipping at a Local Church Goes Viral |url=https://www.crosswalk.com/headlines/contributors/milton-quintanilla/photo-of-ciara-russell-wilson-worshipping-at-a-local-church-goes-viral.html |access-date=2024-08-19 |website=Crosswalk.com |language=en}}
Other ventures
=Business=
Ciara became the face of Jay-Z's Rocawear clothing line and spokesperson for the women campaign titled "I Will Not Lose", which debuted in the summer of 2007. In the October issue of Vibe Magazine, she appeared, apparently nude, on the magazine cover but claimed Vibe had airbrushed her clothes off. She told MTV News that she was hurt by the photos and was quite shocked when she finally got her hands on the month's issue. She later confirmed that she was in fact clothed.{{cite web|last=Harris|first=Chris|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1595459/20080923/ciara.jhtml|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080924070404/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1595459/20080923/ciara.jhtml|url-status=dead|archive-date=September 24, 2008|title=Ciara Insists: I Wasn't Nude In Vibe Magazine|date=September 23, 2009|work=MTV News|access-date=September 23, 2008}}
In 2009, Ciara signed a multimillion-dollar deal with the modeling agency Wilhelmina Models. After signing the deal, she has been in many magazine spreads. In addition to that, she also has her eyes set on beginning a new clothing line. In June 2008, she was in talks with the department store Steve & Barry's to create an affordable clothing line,[http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/content_display/industry/e3iac49c752f1f09871b0c1475f352ba584 Billboard Biz: Ciara Inks With Modeling Agency, Eyes Clothing Line] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100105172816/http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/content_display/industry/e3iac49c752f1f09871b0c1475f352ba584 |date=January 5, 2010 }} Billboard. Retrieved October 27, 2008. but it never happened. On November 9, 2009, it was announced that Ciara would be modeling in the German edition of Vogue.{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/category/artist/ciara|title=Ciara|work=Rap-Up|access-date=October 27, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101029201923/http://www.rap-up.com/category/artist/ciara/|archive-date=October 29, 2010}} During that time, it was also announced that Ciara would be the new face of a major multimedia ad campaign for Verizon's smartphone the LG Chocolate Touch. Ciara filmed a commercial for the campaign, which features her dancing to her 2009 single, "Work".{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2009/11/09/ciara-shoots-for-vogue-signs-on-as-lg-spokeswoman|title=Ciara Shoots for 'Vogue,' Signs on as LG Spokeswoman|work=Rap-Up|date=November 9, 2009|access-date=July 23, 2013}} In March 2010, it was officially confirmed and announced that Ciara was the spokesperson in the new ad campaign for Adidas Originals. A commercial for the campaign was released the same month, featuring numerous other celebrities.{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2010/03/17/video-ciara-snoop-dogg-adrienne-bailon-star-in-adidas-commercials|title=Video: Ciara, Snoop Dogg and Adrienne Bailon star in Adidas Commercials|work=Rap-Up|access-date=October 27, 2010}}
On May 12, 2016, it was announced that Ciara signed a modeling contract with IMG. Later that year, she became a Global Brand Ambassador for the cosmetics giant Revlon.
In August 2019, she and her husband Russell Wilson became part of the ownership group of Seattle Sounders FC in Major League Soccer.{{cite news |last=Evans |first=Jayda |date=August 13, 2019 |title=Russell Wilson, Ciara, Macklemore, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and more join Sounders ownership |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/sounders/russell-wilson-ciara-macklemore-microsoft-execs-and-more-join-sounders-ownership-group/ |work=The Seattle Times |access-date=August 13, 2019}}
In 2020, along with her husband and entrepreneur and mentor Christine Day, she founded the fashion house The House of LR&C, combining the Good Man Brand, LITA by Ciara and Human Nation collections. In 2021, Ciara releases the Dare To Roam collection of recycled plastic backpacks and bags.{{cite magazine|last=Hyde|first=Shelby Ying|date=2021-08-11|title=Ciara's New Accessories Line is All About a Chic Backpack|url=https://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/trends/a37279250/ciara-backpacks-dare-to-roam/|access-date=2021-08-31|magazine=Harper's BAZAAR|language=en-US}} A year later, The House of LR&C received B Corp status.{{Cite web |last=Huspeni |first=Dennis |date=2022-07-26 |title=Russell Wilson and Ciara's House of LR&C opens in Park Meadows |url=https://denvergazette.com/news/business/russell-wilson-and-ciaras-house-of-lr-c-opens-in-park-meadows/article_11a83e14-0cfd-11ed-a291-0fcfef96a22a.html |access-date=2024-02-06 |website=Denver Gazette |language=en}}
Ciara, along with her husband, owns the television entertainment, advertising, and film production company Why Not You Productions, which has been affiliated with Amazon Prime Video since 2021.{{cite web|last=Del Rosario|first=Alexandra|date=2021-05-11|title=Russell Wilson & Ciara Strike First-Look Deal With Amazon Studios Through Why Not You Banner|url=https://deadline.com/2021/05/russell-wilson-ciara-strike-first-look-deal-amazon-studios-why-not-you-banner-1234753994/|access-date=2021-08-31|website=Deadline|language=en-US}}
In October 2021, Ciara has joined Caribbean rum brand Ten To One Rum as an investor and co-owner. Ciara will be responsible for marketing, creative, and business development, as well as strategic alliances, in her new position.{{cite web|last1=Pace|first1=Gina|date=2021-10-01|title=Ciara Becomes An Investor And Co-Owner Of Ten To One Rum|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/ginapace/2021/10/01/ciara-becomes-an-investor-and-co-owner-of-ten-to-one-rum|access-date=2021-10-01|website=Forbes|language=en-US}}
In September 2021, Ciara and Wilson announced that they were writing a children's book called Why Not You? (Random House, 2022) to help kids pursue their dreams.{{Cite web |last=Gillette |first=Sam |date=September 29, 2021 |title=Ciara and Russell Wilson Want to Inspire Kids to Pursue Their Dreams With New Picture Book |url=https://people.com/parents/ciara-and-russell-wilson-inspire-kids-pursue-their-dreams-new-picture-book/ |access-date=August 10, 2022 |website=www.people.com |language=en-US}} The book, cowritten with JaNay Brown-Wood and released on March 1, 2022, received a starred review from School Library Journal{{Cite web |last= |first= |title=Why Not You? |url=https://www.slj.com/review/why-not-you |access-date=2023-05-05 |website=School Library Journal}} and was a New York Times bestseller.{{Cite news |title=Children's Picture Books - Best Sellers - Books - April 3, 2022 - The New York Times |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/books/best-sellers/2022/04/03/picture-books/ |access-date=2023-05-05 |issn=0362-4331}}
Later in August, Ciara would announce the launch of her skincare line, On A Mission, set for mid-September.{{cite web|url=https://www.allure.com/story/ciara-skin-care-line-on-a-mission-oam-review|access-date=August 30, 2022|title=Ciara Is About to Drop a Skin-Care Line Filled With Goodies|date=August 29, 2022 }}{{cite web|url=https://www.eonline.com/news/1344050/ciara-is-launching-a-new-skincare-line-heres-everything-to-know|access-date=August 30, 2022|title=Ciara Is Launching a New Skincare Line—Here's Everything to Know|date=August 29, 2022 }}
=Philanthropy=
In September 2008, Ciara contributed to the song "Just Stand Up!" with fifteen other female artists, who shared the stage to perform the song live on September 5, 2008, during the "Stand Up to Cancer" television special. The proceeds from the single were given to the fundraiser.{{cite news|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1593043/20080819/carey_mariah.jhtml|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080828040741/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1593043/20080819/carey_mariah.jhtml|url-status=dead|archive-date=August 28, 2008|title=Mariah Carey, Beyonce, Rihanna, Fergie, Miley Cyrus, More Collaborate On Cancer Benefit Single|last=Kaufman|first=Gil|date=August 19, 2008|work=MTV News|access-date=August 20, 2008}} The television special helped raise $100 million for cancer research.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1044410/female-stars-team-for-cancer-charity-tune|title=Singers Stand Up To Cancer|magazine=Billboard|access-date=October 8, 2010}}
In 2009, Ciara became the face of Dosomething.org's "Do Something 101" campaign to raise school supplies for those in need at the start of the school year.{{cite magazine|title=ciara and do something 101 want you to help kids in need!|url=http://www.seventeen.com/cosmogirl/ciara-do-something-101?click=main_sr|magazine=Seventeen}} She filmed a public service announcement to endorse the campaign.{{cite web|title=Join Ciara and help a student in need.|url=http://www.staples.com/sbd/cre/marketing/bts09pr/do_something.html|publisher=Staples.com|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927140143/http://www.staples.com/sbd/cre/marketing/bts09pr/do_something.html|archive-date=September 27, 2011}}
In December 2017, Ciara joined her husband's nonprofit 'Why Not You' Foundation as a board director.{{cite web|url=https://people.com/music/ciara-joins-board-of-directors-russell-wilson-why-not-you-foundation/|access-date=June 25, 2022|title=Ciara Joins the Board of Directors on Husband Russell Wilson's Why Not You Foundation|work=Peoplemag }} Through the foundation, she would eventually open a charter school called Why Not You Academy in June 2021 following an announcement eight months prior.{{cite web|url=https://apnews.com/article/virus-outbreak-school-choice-seattle-charter-schools-celebrity-04ab591940910dfb9109150eafb39fc0|access-date=June 25, 2022|title=Russell Wilson, Ciara fund charter school in Seattle area|website=Associated Press |date=April 20, 2021 }}{{cite web|url=https://www.blackenterprise.com/ciara-and-russell-wilson-officially-open-the-why-not-you-academy/|access-date=June 25, 2022|title=CIARA AND RUSSELL WILSON OFFICIALLY OPEN THE WHY NOT YOU ACADEMY|date=June 17, 2021 }} They would also partner with the NFL Players Association and Goalsetter to open checking accounts for students at Denny International Middle School with a donation of $35,000 in May 2021.{{cite web|url=https://www.blackenterprise.com/ciara-and-russell-wilson-donated-35000-savings-accounts-students/|access-date=June 25, 2022|title=CIARA AND RUSSELL WILSON SURPRISE STUDENTS WITH $35,000 GOALSETTER SAVINGS ACCOUNTS AND INVESTING TIPS|date=May 2, 2021 }} Ciara would later partner with the Black Women's Health Imperative and Hologic's Project Health Equality on their collaborative 'Cerving Confidence' campaign to raise awareness about the disproportionate effects of cervical cancer on black women.{{cite web|url=https://www.fiercepharma.com/marketing/grammy-winning-artist-ciara-cerving-confidence-hologic-s-new-cervical-cancer-awareness#:~:text=Marketing-,Grammy%2Dwinning%20artist%20Ciara%20is%20%27Cerving%20Confidence%27%20in%20Hologic%27s,awareness%20effort%20for%20Black%20women&text=Grammy%2Dwinning%20artist%20Ciara%20encourages,raise%20awareness%20around%20cervical%20cancer.|title=Grammy-winning artist Ciara is 'Cerving Confidence' in Hologic's new cervical cancer awareness effort for Black women|date=June 23, 2021 |access-date= August 16, 2022}}
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Ciara donated one million meals to Food Lifeline to help the Puget Sound Region.{{cite web|url=https://www.seahawks.com/news/russell-wilson-ciara-to-donate-one-million-meals-to-food-lifeline|access-date=June 25, 2022|title=Russell Wilson & Ciara To Donate One Million Meals To Food Lifeline|archive-date=August 9, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220809191054/https://www.seahawks.com/news/russell-wilson-ciara-to-donate-one-million-meals-to-food-lifeline|url-status=dead}}
Discography
{{Main|Ciara discography}}
;Studio albums
- Goodies (2004)
- Ciara: The Evolution (2006)
- Fantasy Ride (2009)
- Basic Instinct (2010)
- Ciara (2013)
- Jackie (2015)
- Beauty Marks (2019)
- CiCi (2025)
Tours
=Headlining=
- Ciara: Live in Concert (2006)
- Jackie Tour (2015)
- Beauty Marks Tour (2019)
=Co-headlining=
- Screamfest '07 (with T.I.) (2007)
- Jay-Z & Ciara Live (with Jay-Z) (2009)
=Supporting act=
- Harajuku Lovers Tour 2005 (Gwen Stefani) (2005)
- Good Girl Gone Bad Tour (Rihanna) (2007)
- The Circus Starring Britney Spears (Britney Spears) (2009)
- 24K Magic World Tour (Bruno Mars) (2018)
- Out of This World: The Missy Elliott Experience Tour (Missy Elliott) (2024){{cite magazine|last=Willman|first=Chris|date=April 8, 2024|url=https://variety.com/2024/music/news/missy-elliott-tour-arenas-busta-rhymes-ciara-timbaland-1235963800/|title=Missy Elliott to Embark on First Headlining Tour Ever, With Busta Rhymes, Ciara and Timbaland as Support|magazine=Variety|access-date=April 8, 2024}}
Filmography
=Film=
class="wikitable sortable" |
Year
! Title ! Role ! Notes |
---|
2006
| Becca Watley | TV movie |
rowspan="2"| 2012
| Amara Winter | |
That's My Boy
| Brie | |
2023
| Nettie | Nominated – Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture |
=Television=
class="wikitable sortable" |
Year
! Title ! Role ! Notes |
---|
rowspan="2"| 2004
| Herself | Episode: "Ciara with Petey Pablo/I-20 feat. Ludacris" |
Steve Harvey's Big Time Challenge
| Herself | Episode: "Episode #2.10" |
rowspan="4"| 2005
| Herself | Recurring Guest |
Punk'd
| Herself | Episode: "Episode #4.7" |
Soul Train
| Herself | Episode: "Ciara/T.I./P$C" |
My Super Sweet 16
| Herself | Episode: "Amanda" |
2005–09
| Herself | Recurring Guest |
rowspan="2"| 2006
| Herself | Episode: "Word Cup, And-1, ASCAP and Superman Returns..." |
So You Think You Can Dance
| Herself | Episode: "Finale" |
rowspan="4"| 2009
| Herself | Episode: "Take Me to the Photo Shoot" |
E.S.L.
| Herself | Episode: "Makano, Ciara Y MáS!" |
Saturday Night Live
| Herself | Episode: "Justin Timberlake/Ciara" |
Sound
| Herself | Episode: "Episode #3.37" |
rowspan="3"| 2011
| Kourtney and Kim Take New York | Herself | Episode: "Dream A Little Dream" |
Hellcats
| Herself | Episode: "Land of 1,000 Dances" |
Keeping Up with the Kardashians
| Herself | Episode: "Kim's Fairytale Wedding: A Kardashian Event - Part 2" |
2013
| The Game | Herself | Recurring Cast: Season 6 |
rowspan="3"| 2015
| Herself | Episode: "Episode #1.1" & "#1.3" |
Project Runway
| Herself/Guest Judge | Episode: "Make It Sell" |
Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn
| Herself | Episode: "Go Hollywood: Part 1 & 2" |
rowspan="2"| 2015–16
| Herself/Celebrity Player | Episode: "Episode #3.3" & "#4.7" |
Live with Kelly and Mark
| Herself/Guest Co-Host | Recurring Guest Co-Host |
rowspan="2"| 2016
| Herself/Co-Host | Main Co-Host |
Love Advent
| Herself | Episode: "Ciara" |
2017
| So Cosmo | Herself | Episode: "Vol. 1, No. 3: Before Heads Roll" |
2018
| RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars | Herself/Guest Judge | Episode: "Super Girl Groups, Henny" |
2018–23
| Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve | Herself/Co-Host | Main Co-Host |
rowspan="3"| 2019
| Song Association | Herself | Episode: "Ciara" |
All That
| Herself | Recurring Guest |
American Music Awards
| Herself/Host | Main Host |
2019–20
| America's Most Musical Family | Herself/Judge | Main Judge |
2021
| Herself | Episode: "Cardi Tries Thanksgiving Dinner" |
rowspan="5"| 2022
| Herself | Episode: "Part 3 & 4" |
Billboard Women in Music
| Herself/Host | Main Host |
Soul of a Nation
| Herself | Episode: "Sound of Freedom – A Juneteenth Celebration" |
Carpool Karaoke
| Herself | Episode: "Ciara & Russell Wilson" |
Earnin' It
| Herself/Narrator | Main Narrator |
2024
| Herself | Episode: "Born to Sing" |
2024
| Herself | Episode: "Adele Night" |
=Music videos=
class="wikitable sortable" |
Year
! Song ! Artist |
---|
2004
| "Calling All Girls" | ATL |
2008
| "Party People" |
2010
| "Lil Freak" | Usher featuring Nicki Minaj |
2016
| "M.I.L.F. $" | Fergie |
2019 |
=Documentary=
class="wikitable sortable" |
Year
! Title |
---|
2021
| Justin Bieber: The New Me |
See also
References
{{reflist}}
External links
{{Commons category}}
- {{Official website|http://www.officialciara.com/}}
- {{allMusic}}
- {{IMDb name}}
- [https://www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/ciara Ciara] at Rotten Tomatoes
{{Ciara}}
{{Navboxes
|title = Awards for Ciara
|list =
{{BET Award for Best Collaboration}}
{{Grammy Award for Best Music Video}}
{{MTV Video Music Award for Best Hip-Hop Video}}
{{NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Duo or Group}}
}}
{{Authority control}}
Category:21st-century African-American women singers
Category:21st-century American women singers
Category:21st-century African-American actresses
Category:21st-century American actresses
Category:21st-century American singer-songwriters
Category:Actresses from Austin, Texas
Category:African-American crunk musicians
Category:American crunk musicians
Category:African-American female dancers
Category:African-American female models
Category:African-American women singer-songwriters
Category:American women singer-songwriters
Category:American contemporary R&B singers
Category:American female dancers
Category:American hip-hop dancers
Category:American hip-hop singers
Category:American soccer chairmen and investors
Category:American women hip-hop musicians
Category:American women hip-hop singers
Category:American women in electronic music
Category:American women pop singers
Category:American dance-pop musicians
Category:Female models from Georgia (U.S. state)
Category:Female models from Texas
Category:LaFace Records artists
Category:North Clayton High School alumni
Category:People from Fort Cavazos
Category:People from Riverdale, Georgia
Category:Singers from Austin, Texas
Category:Singer-songwriters from Georgia (U.S. state)
Category:Singer-songwriters from Texas
Category:Southern hip-hop musicians