I’m always excited when my favorite artists drop a new album. So when I heard that Mary J. Blige (MJB) was working on something new, I was thrilled! I don’t know about you, but I’m still listening to What’s the 411 and Growing Pains – those are my favorite albums from her. So what’s new for MJB? Her highly anticipated and universal 13th album, The London Sessions, is set to drop on December 2nd. Christmas gift, anyone? 🙂
I had the pleasure of listening to the entire album last week. When I listen to new music, I like to listen to the album all the way through once, no skips or repeats. Then I listen once more to try and pick out my favorite songs. I listen for head-nodding beats, lyrics with depth, and the overall vibe of the songs. I did just that with MJB’s The London Sessions and I must say, she’s got something really great with this new project.
Nobody But You is a song I can see doing very well on a plethora of radio stations. The sound is very London, but that’s a good thing. It has universal appeal, just like the rest of the album, and has the potential to reach so many people. MJB took a leap of faith with this project by not only recording (in 3 weeks) in London but also working with artists like Sam Smith, Emeli Sandé, and Disclosure.
My favorite song, hands down, is Whole Damn Year. It was as if she was singing from a page of her diary. From the beat to the lyrics, to her vocal tone, the song is very MJB. It’s a really good song filled with so much raw emotion and passion, and that’s what MJB is known for. She is a passionate artist and her previous bodies of work prove that she’s a remarkable storyteller. That’s something I feel is extremely important for a good artist/songwriter to be – a good storyteller.
So tell me, are you a Mary J. Blige fan? Will you be purchasing The London Sessions on December 2nd? Let me know!
The London Sessions definitely reveals MJB’s evolution as an artist and I cannot wait to add this classic and universal album to my collection. If you want to pre-order The London Sessions, head to iTunes or Amazon. Trust me when I say this album will make a great Christmas gift for any music lover on your Christmas list. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!
Mary J. Blige Facebook Fan Page
Mary J. Blige – The London Sessions Website
**I participated in the Mary J. Blige The London Sessions album review program as a member of bLink Marketing Network. I was provided a free album to review but all opinions are my own.**