Lets be real here – Cheryl Cole isn’t known for her ‘Whitney’ or ‘Leona’ esque voice, and having risen from the ranks of a girl band, it would be easy to shed instant doubt on the potential of the ‘girl up north’s’ solo ventures.

Saying this, with the release of her first single ‘Fight for this Love’ – I was instantly impressed. I was taken in more by the success that this track gained in such a short amount of time, rather than the tune itself – no matter how catchy it is. The single shot to number one, surpassing Cheryl’s own act from the X Factor 2008, Alexandra Burke with her single ‘Bad Boys’ gaining the title of fastest selling number one of the year.

One week later, Cheryl’s Debut album ’3 Words’ raced to the number one spot too – providing Cheryl with much praise from Simon Cowell on the same Sunday’s X Factor programme.

The album itself features a lot of Will I Am – which i think really compliments her album, there are quite a range of different types of tracks, ranging from dance to pop to RnB – she’s managed to cover quite a few bases whilst maintaining a unique sound, instantly identifiable as Cheryl – dare i say she’s set a tone for herself already?

I’m biased, i think she’s great, and will enjoy her album on Spotify Premium, (which i finally purchased and am very smug about) but what do you think? I’m sure there are lots of people who disagree – even in my office i get much resistance when her tracks come on the radio – jealousy perhaps?

I do believe her undoubtedly positive public image has had an impressive effect on her solo career so far and it will be interesting to see if Cheryl follows suit with similar celebrities into the world of Twitter and Facebook!

Are you a Cheryl lover or hater? Have you heard her album yet, if so, what do you think? Please comment below!