"The Songstress," Anita Baker's debut album, was released in 1983 and marked the beginning of her illustrious career in the music industry. This album showcases Baker's powerful vocal abilities and her unique blend of jazz, soul, and R&B influences. Produced by Patrick Moten and Otis Smith, "The Songstress" introduced the world to Baker's smooth, emotive singing style, which would become her signature sound. Although it didn't achieve the massive commercial success of her later works, the album received positive reviews and established her as a promising new artist in the R&B scene.