A Million Lights is the third studio album by British recording artist Cheryl Cole, first released on 15 June 2012 through Fascination Records. The album was recorded from 2011 through to 2012. As the executive producer of the album, Cole enlisted a variety of producers such as Alex da Kid, Calvin Harris, will.i.am, Pantha, Agent X, HyGrade, Dada Life, Jim Beanz, Taio Cruz, Mathias Wollo, The Beamer Boyz, Billy Wes, Electric, Bibi Jones and Dave Munday. Sonically, the album is rooted in pop, dance-pop and R&B, but also incorporates a variety of other genres such as dubstep in tracks such as "Love Killer".
Upon its release, A Million Lights received mainly mixed reviews from music critics, who commended its progression from Cole's previous albums, but were ambivalent towards the mix of genres. The album debuted on the UK Album charts at position two selling 34,934 copies in its first week. A Million Lights also peaked at two on the Ireland album charts and one on the Scottish charts.
Two singles have been released from the album. The first single, "Call My Name", which debuted on Capital FM's breakfast show on 20 April 2012 and was released on 8 June, 2012. With only three days of release, "Call My Name" sold a total of 97,000 in the United Kingdom in the first 3 days alone. After seven days of release "Call My Name" sold 152,000, debuting at number one and becoming the fastest selling single of 2012. "Under The Sun" was announced as second single on 25 June 2012 and will be released 10 September 2012.
In July 2011, it was reported that Cole had begun work on her third studio album under the name "Cheryl". In a interview Cole said: "The album, yeah, is that weird - playing it on repeat? I want to share it now. I've had some of the songs for a year or longer." In early 2012 Cole tweeted saying "There's no place like home *sighs*.. Fresh english air !! But where is the snow :(.. I was expecting an avalanche :'( " and following she tweeted "Yesss.! The album is DONE !!! *dancing all over the place* I'm Soooo HAPPY and EXCITED to share with you !! #CherylMusic on its way.. Booyaa". On 18 April 2012, Cole revealed the title of her third studio album, A Million Lights and when it would be released, on 18 June 2012. Cole revealed the album artwork for A Million Lights, as well the official track listing for the standard and deluxe versions of the album via Cole's Facebook and official website on 24 May 2012. The cover features a close-up shot of Cole, featuring her hand tattoo, with messy over one side of her face. Cole wears a bright, lime-green dress in the shot and pink lipstick. The album cover was shot by German photographer Ellen Von Unwerth. Cole previewed a song entitled "Love Killer" on her official SoundCloud account.