Rock Bands & Pop Stars
Mary J. Blige Pictures
Artist:
Mary J. Blige
Origin:
United States, New York CIty (The Bronx)United States
Born date:
January 11, 1971
Mary J. Blige Album: «Mary [Import Bonus Tracks]»
Mary J. Blige Album: «Mary [Import Bonus Tracks]»
    Album information
  • Title:Mary [Import Bonus Tracks]
  • Release date:
  • Type:Unknown
  • Genre:R&B, Quiet Storm, Today's Big Hits
  • Label:Universal International
  • Explicit lyrics:Yes
  • UPC:4988067040640
Review
Perhaps it was inevitable that Mary J. Blige would mature, toning down the raunchier elements of her persona that have been evident since her debut, while repositioning herself as a classicist soul singer. Even so, the sheer classiness of Mary, her fourth album, may come as a bit of a surprise. Blige made a conscious effort to create an album that recalled the classic dawning days of quiet storm yet worked as a unified, cohesive album. That meant that the more overt hip-hop elements have been subdued in favor of '70s soul. There's still grit in the music, but it's been glossed over with a polished production, and she now favors sophisticated songs, including material from such writers as Stevie Wonder, Bacharach/David, Lauryn Hill, and Elton John and Bernie Taupin. Some of these writers were collaborators, and others contributed songs outright, but the amazing thing about the end result belongs to nobody else but Blige. It's different, to be sure, but still her -- and it's a rewarding, engaging way to mature. Blige's voice is richer and her skills have deepened, and her new songs, while not as streetwise, are worthy of her talents. Consequently, Mary is a thoroughly winning album. [The import edition of this album includes two cover songs: Stevie Wonder's "As" and Lalah Hathaway's "Almost Gone."] ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide
Track listing