Mary J. Blige began her reign as the hip hop/R&B queen of soul in the early 1990s with her platinum selling album, “What’s the 411.” Fifteen years later, Mary J. has seven platinum albums, securing her place in R&B history as one of the top-selling female artist.
Mary J. Blige latest album “The Breakthrough” debuted as No. 1 on the charts in December 2005. The first single “Be Without You” became an instant hit and helped spread the buzz about the album. Throughout the 16-track album, the listener will enjoy a variety of songs and topics. Mary J. touches on sensitive yet important themes, such as a fatherless daughter in the song titled, “Father in You.” A collaboration with Jay-z on “Can’t Hide From Luv” helps Blige secure an official club banger. From track one to the very last song on the album, Blige invites us to share her personal thoughts and experiences and touches on issues that we all can relate to.
Mary J. Blige shows her fans and even her critics how much she has grown vocally, spiritually and emotionally. I believe that this album is her greatest album thus far. I recommend this album to those who enjoy soulful, positive and meaningful music.