One of the most accomplished performers of the last decade, Christina Aguilera has sold well over 25 million albums worldwide and cultivated a fan base that crosses generational, racial and gender lines. Now, segueing from the audacious sexuality of her second studio album, Stripped, the chameleon-like performer pays tribute to the music that has inspired her with the August 15th release of Back To Basics (RCA Records).

A modern take on vintage jazz, soul and blues from the 1920s, ‘30s, ‘40s and beyond, her third studio album is wildly inventive, whose throwback style creates a sound that’s gritty and raw. The album reunites her with producer Linda Perry and offers new collaborations with producers such as DJ Premier. The upbeat first single, “Ain’t No Other Man,” will be world-premiered on the MTV Movie Awards on June 8 prior to its debut on June 12. “This is a concept album that follows a bold vision,” explains Aguilera. “The touchstones are Billie Holiday, Otis Redding, Etta James and Ella Fitzgerald – what I used to call my ‘fun music’ when I was a little girl.”

The double album, Back To Basics utilizes an orchestra, choir, string quartet and jazz horns, as well as techniques that, according to GQ, “blends a vintage-soul sound with state-of-the-art beatsmanship to form a throwback/hip-hop showcase for her outsize voice.” “I Got Trouble” incorporates a scratchy blues feel, while “Candy Man” recalls the tight harmonies of all-girl groups from the ‘30s and ‘40s “Save Me From Myself” is an emotionally naked, raw-sounding song dedicated to her husband. “Thank You,” dedicated to her fans, features DJ Premier splicing bits of “Genie In A Bottle” with fan voicemail messages. Also sure to appeal to Aguilera fans is the risqué song “Nasty Naughty Boy” (which has a ‘20s burlesque feel) and the sassy club track “Still Dirrty.” Aguilera’s backstory is well-known. A native of Staten Island, the pre-teen began performing in local talent shows while growing up in Pennsylvania. In 1992, after appearing on “Star Search,”