Estelle took three years to complete her sophomore album and a lot of people have been scratching their heads trying to figure out why, especially after her U.S. debut hit “American Boy.”  But Estelle’s answer to this is simple — she was traveling nonstop, she wanted this project to mean something, and she got personal.

On Wednesday night at NYC lounge Open House, Estelle sat down and gave tastemakers a preview of what the world can expect with the release of her new album, All of Me.  She said that the recording process was “uncomfortable” because she was completely honest with her music and didn’t want to make any record just for the sake of appeasing anyone. The finished product is a complete project that shows her growth as an artist, a person and it also shows that even though she’s a star she keeps everything honest, even if it hurts.

The album’s lead single, “Thank You,” only scratches the surface of what Estelle is putting on the table, so keep your eyes and ears open for these standout tracks:

“International (Serious)” featuring Chris Brown and Trey Songz — this is what happens when three of the hardest working young R&B stars get together and talk about being worldwide superstars. Is it cocky? Yes, but the track is a certified banger and will go hard at home, in the club and on your iPod.

“Wonderful Life” — if you’re having a bad day, this is one of those songs that will make the sun shine a little brighter even if it’s behind some clouds. Like Estelle said, we all go through rough times, but this song is really about how to smile through them because things always get better.

“Speak Your Mind” — it samples Adina Howard’s “Freak Like Me.” Enough said.

What lesson will you learn from All of Me?  You’ll learn that honesty is the best policy and that this is Estelle’s world, but we’re all just living it.

Don’t forget to catch Estelle on BET’s 2012 Music Matters Tour starting February 2, 2012!

(Photo: Kellyann Petry/ Atlantic Records)