As its title indicates, Mystory is a very personal and deeply confessional collection of tracks covering heartbreak, lies, and learning from mistakes. It’s no surprise then that Crea penned all of the album’s lyrics herself, though she always had more on her mind than just her story. “I don’t think about myself too much when I write,” Crea said in a recent telephone interview. “I have come across a lot of people that relate to it (the album).”

Though the relationship-oriented lyrics are told from a female point-of-view, Crea feels that the message is for both genders. “The songs are universal, even though it’s coming from a woman,” she said. “I was hoping women would catch on to what they do wrong in relationships as well.”

Crea’s music is catchy and danceable like Beyonce or Mya, but with a deeper personal feeling more akin to Alicia Keys or Mary J. Blige. Crea also plays guitar on several of Mystory’s tracks, bringing an earthy, singer-songwriter touch to the R&B sound. The result is a throwback to ‘70s soul with more than just a dash of contemporary sounds.

Early on, Crea found her niche composing songs for the likes of Tracie Spencer and Queen Latifah. She feels just as at home on stage with a guitar as she does hunkered down in the studio writing a tune for a collaborator. “That’s something I never really stop doing,” she stated. “I want to write for other people. I want get on other projects. I don’t want to just do everything for myself.”

Crea’s own personal musical tastes reflect her sound. “I really appreciate Euro-style music, like Zero 7, Esthero, classic Sade,” said Crea. She is also influenced by, “The all-time greats: Stevie, Marvin, Earth Wind and Fire”

Though its title indicates a first person journey, Crea hopes that Mystory can be told from the point-of-view of any listener. “I think everyone can find parts of themselves in in Mystory,” says Crea. “Even though it’s talking about my life, it’s a love story that many of us have been through.” However, not everyone knows how to articulate those life-thoughts as well as Crea. That’s why she tells the story and we just listen.”