This Complete List Of Mary J. Blige Albums And Songs presents the entire discography of Mary J. Blige studio albums. Mary J. Blige is among the past thirty years’ most respected female vocalists and artists. She is one of those unique artists in which many other artists love to collaborate with. It’s evident from the multiple collaborations on her studio albums that it is an honor to work with her. Mary J. Blige hails from Yonkers, New York. A city that is just north of the Bronx.
Her first album was released in 1992. Since then, she has released a steady flow of beautiful albums that have helped her become one of the leading famous music artists. All these brilliant Mary J. Blige albums have been presented below chronologically. We have also included all original release dates with each Mary J, Blige album and all original album covers. Every album listed below showcases the entire album track listing.
MARY J.BLIGE STUDIO ALBUMS
What’s the 411?
What’s the 411? is the groundbreaking debut album by Mary J. Blige, released on July 28, 1992, by Uptown Records. Seamlessly blending hip-hop beats with soulful R&B vocals, the album marked a significant moment in the evolution of contemporary R&B, heralding the arrival of a genre that would later be known as hip-hop soul. The album was predominantly recorded at The Hit Factory in New York City, with sessions also taking place at various other studios including Chung King House of Metal and D&D Recording.
Under the executive production of Andre Harrell and with Sean “Puffy” Combs serving as the album’s executive producer, What’s the 411? brought together a talented ensemble of producers including Dave Hall, Tony Dofat, Mark Morales, and Mark C. Rooney. This collaborative effort resulted in a fresh sound that fused the raw energy of street-savvy beats with Blige’s powerful and emotive vocal delivery. The musicians and vocalists contributing to the album further enriched its sonic landscape, with notable performances by session musicians and background vocalists that added depth and texture to the tracks.
Critically, What’s the 411? received acclaim for its innovative sound and Blige’s authentic vocal style, which resonated with audiences and critics alike. The album achieved significant commercial success, peaking at number six on the Billboard 200 and topping the R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. It spawned several hit singles, including “You Remind Me” and “Real Love,” which became anthems of the era and propelled Blige to stardom. The album’s influence was profound, not only establishing Mary J. Blige as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul” but also setting a new standard for R&B music in the 1990s, blending streetwise hip-hop with the emotional depth of classic soul.
Released July 28, 1992
CD Track Listings:
- Leave a Message
- Reminisce
- Real Love
- You Remind Me
- Intro Talk – with Busta Rhymes
- Sweet Thing
- Love No Limit
- I Don’t Want to Do Anything
- Slow Down
- My Love
- Changes I’ve Been Going Through
- What’s The 411?
My Life
My Life, the second studio album by Mary J. Blige, released on November 29, 1994, stands as a landmark in the soul and R&B genres, deeply personal and profoundly influential. Recorded primarily at The Hit Factory in New York City, the album captures the essence of Blige’s raw emotions and experiences, transforming her personal turmoil into a universally resonant work of art. Under the executive production of Andre Harrell and Puff Daddy (Sean Combs), who also took on the role of the album’s main producer, My Life was crafted with contributions from a stellar lineup of producers and songwriters including Chucky Thompson, Prince Charles Alexander, and Carl “Chucky” Thompson, ensuring a rich and diverse sonic palette.
The album’s sound, a sophisticated blend of soulful grooves, heartfelt lyrics, and hip-hop beats, marks a significant evolution from her debut, What’s the 411?. Blige’s vocal delivery on My Life is both powerful and vulnerable, reflecting her personal struggles with depression, addiction, and heartbreak. The production embraces a more introspective and somber tone, with samples and influences ranging from classic soul to contemporary hip-hop, creating a backdrop that perfectly complements Blige’s emotive storytelling. Notable tracks such as “Be Happy” and the title track “My Life” showcase her ability to convey deep emotional narratives, resonating with listeners and critics alike.
Commercially and critically, My Life was a triumph. It peaked at number seven on the Billboard 200 and number one on the R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, solidifying Blige’s status as a leading voice in R&B music. The album not only garnered critical acclaim for its authenticity and emotional depth but also influenced a generation of artists by blending hip-hop’s edge with the soulful depth of R&B. Over the years, My Life has been celebrated as one of the greatest albums in the genre, earning numerous accolades and being credited with helping to redefine R&B for the modern era. Its legacy endures as a testament to Blige’s artistry and her profound impact on the landscape of music.
Released November 29, 1994
CD Track Listings:
1. Intro
2. Mary Jane (All Night Long)
3. You Bring Me Joy
4. Marvin Interlude
5. I’m the Only Woman
6. K. Murray Interlude
7. My Life
8. You Gotta Believe
9. I Never Wanna Live Without You
10. I’m Goin’ Down
11. My Life Interlude
12. Be with You
13. Mary’s Joint
14. Don’t Go
15. I Love You
16. No One Else
17. Be Happy
Share My World
Share My World is the third studio album by American R&B singer Mary J. Blige, released on April 22, 1997, by MCA Records. The album marked a significant moment in Blige’s career, showcasing her evolution as an artist and her willingness to explore new territories in her sound and emotional expression. Unlike her previous albums, “Share My World” moved away from the heavier hip-hop beats and undertones, leaning more towards a pure R&B and soul vibe, which allowed Blige to delve deeper into her vocal performances and lyrical storytelling.
For the production of “Share My World,” Mary J. Blige collaborated with a diverse group of producers, including Rodney Jerkins, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, R. Kelly, and Babyface, among others. These collaborations brought a smoother, more polished sound to the album, complementing Blige’s powerful and emotive vocal style. The album features a mix of upbeat tracks and ballads, with lyrics that speak to love, loss, and self-discovery, themes that resonated with many listeners and helped to solidify Blige’s place as a significant figure in R&B music.
Critically, “Share My World” was well-received, praised for Blige’s vocal maturity and the album’s emotional depth. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, a testament to its commercial success and the broad appeal of Blige’s music. The album produced several hit singles, including “Not Gon’ Cry” and “I Can Love You,” which further showcased Blige’s range as an artist. “Share My World” is often regarded as one of Mary J. Blige’s most important works, representing a pivotal moment in her career where she embraced her vulnerabilities and used them to connect with her audience on a deeper level.
Released April 22, 1997
CD Track Listings:
1. Intro
2. I Can Love You
3.Love Is All We Need
4. Round and Round
5. Share My World (Interlude)
6. Share My World
7. Seven Days
8. It’s on
9. Thank You Lord (Interlude)
10. Missing You
11. Everything
12. Keep Your Head
13. Can’t Get You Off My Mind
14. Get to Know You Better
15. Searching
16. Our Love
17. Not Gon’ Cry
Mary
Mary, the fourth studio album by Mary J. Blige, released on August 17, 1999, represents a significant chapter in Blige’s discography, showcasing her evolution from the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul” to a more mature, soulful artist. The album, often cited as her most introspective work at the time, was recorded at various locations, including The Hit Factory in New York City. It featured an array of renowned producers and collaborators, including Lauryn Hill, Elton John, and George Michael, contributing to its diverse and rich sound.
Musically, Mary diverged from the more contemporary hip-hop beats of Blige’s earlier work, embracing classic soul and R&B influences that highlighted her vocal depth and emotional range. The album’s content, marked by introspective lyrics and themes of love, self-reflection, and empowerment, resonated deeply with audiences, showcasing Blige’s growth as an artist and as a person. Tracks like “All That I Can Say,” penned by Lauryn Hill, and “Deep Inside,” featuring Elton John, exemplify the album’s blend of contemporary R&B with classic soul influences.
Critically acclaimed, “Mary” solidified Blige’s status as a leading force in R&B music. It debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 and received several Grammy nominations, reflecting its commercial success and critical recognition. The album’s sophisticated production, combined with Blige’s raw and honest vocal performances, made it a pivotal work in her career and a favorite among fans. “Mary” stands as a testament to Mary J. Blige’s enduring talent and her ability to continually reinvent herself while staying true to her roots in soul and R&B.
Released August 17, 1999
CD Track Listings:
1. “All That I Can Say” with Lauryn Hill
2. “Sexy” with Jadakiss
3. “Deep Inside” with Elton John
4. “Beautiful Ones”
5. “I’m In Love”
6. “Time”
7. “Memories”
8. “Don’t Waste Your Time” with Aretha Franklin
9. “Not Lookin'”
10. “Your Child”
11. “No Happy Holidays”
12. “The Love I Never Had”
13. “Give Me You” with Eric Clapton
14. “Let No Man Put Asunder”
No More Drama
No More Drama, Mary J. Blige’s fifth studio album, released on August 28, 2001, marks a pivotal point in her career, encapsulating a journey of personal growth and transformation. The album was recorded over several months in 2000 and 2001, with sessions taking place in various studios, including Hit Factory and Sony Music Studios in New York City. This period in Blige’s life was about shedding the pain of the past and embracing a future filled with hope, a theme that resonates throughout the album.
The production of No More Drama brought together a stellar lineup of producers, including Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Missy Elliott, Rockwilder, and Rich Harrison, among others. Their collective expertise contributed to a diverse sound that blends R&B, hip-hop, and soul, while still maintaining the raw emotional intensity that Blige is known for. The album features contributions from a host of musicians and background vocalists, enriching its sound and adding depth to its narrative. Notable tracks like the anthemic title track “No More Drama” and the introspective “Family Affair,” produced by Dr. Dre, showcase Blige’s versatility as an artist and her ability to convey profound emotion through her music.
Critically, “No More Drama” was lauded for its lyrical depth and Blige’s vocal performance, which many considered to be among her best. The album achieved significant commercial success, debuting at number two on the Billboard 200 and earning multiple Grammy nominations, including one for the title track.
Released August 28, 2001
CD Track Listings:
1. “Love”
2. “Family Affair”
3. “Steal Away” with Pharrell
4. “He Think I Don’t Know”
5. “PMS”
6. “No More Drama”
7. “Rainy Dayz” with Ja Rule
8. “Where I’ve Been”
9. “Beautiful Day”
10. “Dance For Me”
11. “No More Drama”
12. “Flying Away”
13. “Never Been”
14. “2U”
15. “In The Meantime”
16. “Forever No More”
17. “Testimony”
Love & Life
Love & Life, the sixth studio album by Mary J. Blige, released on August 26, 2003, signifies a full-circle moment for the artist, reuniting her with producer Sean “P. Diddy” Combs, who had a pivotal role in her debut album “What’s the 411?”. The collaboration aimed to recapture the magic of her early career while showcasing her growth as an artist. The album’s recording sessions took place primarily in New York City, featuring a blend of hip-hop beats and soulful R&B melodies that harkened back to the sound that first brought Blige to prominence.
The production of “Love & Life” saw Combs returning as the executive producer, contributing to a sound that melded classic soul with contemporary hip-hop elements. The album featured contributions from a host of industry heavyweights, including Dr. Dre on the track “Not Today” and 50 Cent on “Let Me Be the 1.” The list of musicians and background vocalists added richness to the album’s texture, with notable sessions that included live instrumentation and lush arrangements to complement Blige’s powerful vocals.
Upon its release, “Love & Life” received mixed to positive reviews from critics, who praised Blige’s vocal performance and the nostalgic feel of the production but were divided on the coherence of the album’s thematic content. Commercially, the album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, marking Blige’s second album to achieve this feat, and showcased her continued relevance in the evolving landscape of R&B and hip-hop. The album spawned several singles, including the introspective “Love @ 1st Sight” featuring Method Man, which highlighted Blige’s signature blend of rap and soul.
Released August 26, 2003
CD Track Listings:
1. “Love & Life Intro” with P. Diddy & Jay-Z
2. “Don’t Go”
3. “When We”
4. “Not Today”
5. “Finally Made It” (Interlude)
6. “Ooh!”
7. “Let Me Be The 1” with 50 Cent
8. “Love @ 1st Sight”
9. “Willing & Waiting”
10. “Free” (Interlude)
11. “Friends”
12. “Press On”
13. “Feel Like Makin’ Love”
14. “It’s A Wrap”
15. “Message In Our Music” (Interlude)
16. “All My Love”
17. “Special Part Of Me”
18. “Ultimate Relationship (A.M.)”
The Breakthrough
The Breakthrough, Mary J. Blige’s seventh studio album, released on December 20, 2005, stands as a monumental achievement in her illustrious career, embodying a profound sense of personal and artistic growth. The album’s recording sessions spanned several months in 2005, taking place in various studios across the United States, including the renowned Hit Factory Criteria in Miami and Record Plant in Los Angeles. This period marked a time of intense introspection and renewal for Blige, themes that are deeply woven into the fabric of the album.
Under the guidance of executive producers including Blige herself, along with industry titans such as Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Rodney Jerkins, and will.i.am, “The Breakthrough” delivers a rich tapestry of contemporary R&B, soul, and hip-hop. The album boasts an impressive roster of guest artists and musicians, including contributions from Jay-Z, Raphael Saadiq, and U2’s Bono on the standout track “One.” The production team’s collective expertise, coupled with Blige’s raw, emotive vocal delivery, creates a soundscape that is both expansive and deeply personal, resonating with themes of pain, resilience, and redemption.
Upon its release, “The Breakthrough” received widespread critical acclaim for its emotional depth, sonic innovation, and Blige’s powerful vocal performances. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, selling over 727,000 copies in its first week, and went on to achieve multi-platinum status. It spawned several hit singles, including “Be Without You,” which not only topped the R&B charts but also became a cross-over success, further cementing Blige’s status as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul.”
Released December 20, 2005
CD Track Listings:
1. “No One Will Do”
2. “Enough Cryin'”
3. “About You” with will.i.am and Nina Simone
4. “Be Without You”
5. “Gonna Breakthrough”
6. “Good Woman Down”
7. “Take Me As I Am”
8. “Baggage”
9. “Can’t Hide From Luv” with Jay-Z
10. “MJB da MVP” with 50 Cent
11. “Can’t Get Enough”
12. “Ain’t Really Love”
13. “I Found My Everything”
14. “Father In You”
15. “Alone”
16. “One” with U2
Growing Pains
Growing Pains, the eighth studio album by Mary J. Blige, released on December 18, 2007, represents a continued evolution in her musical journey, offering a raw and introspective look into the struggles and triumphs that have defined her path. The album’s recording spanned several months in 2007, with sessions held at a variety of studios, including the Hit Factory in New York and Record Plant in Los Angeles. This project saw Blige collaborating with a diverse group of producers and songwriters, including Ne-Yo, Tricky Stewart, The-Dream, Stargate, and Bryan-Michael Cox, each bringing their unique touch to the album’s sound.
“Growing Pains” showcases Blige’s exploration of themes such as self-acceptance, love, and resilience, underpinned by a mix of contemporary R&B, soul, and pop elements. The album’s lead single, “Just Fine,” epitomizes this approach with its upbeat tempo and empowering lyrics, reflecting Blige’s positive outlook and acceptance of life’s imperfections. The collaborative efforts on the album not only highlight Blige’s versatility as an artist but also her ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level, through both her lyrics and her soul-stirring vocals.
Upon its release, “Growing Pains” received positive reviews from music critics, who praised Blige’s vocal performance and the album’s lyrical content. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, selling 629,000 copies in its first week, and it garnered Blige a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary R&B Album.
Released December 18, 2007
CD Track Listings:
1. “Work That”
2. “Grown Woman”
3. “Just Fine”
4. “Feel Like A Woman”
5. “Stay Down”
6. “Hurt Again”
7. “Shake Down”
8. “Till The Morning”
9. “Roses”
10. “Fade Away”
11. “What Love Is”
12. “Work In Progress (Growing Pains)”
13. “Talk To Me”
14. “If You Love Me?”
15. “Smoke”
16. “Come To Me (Peace)”
Stronger with Each Tear
Stronger with Each Tear is the ninth studio album by the incomparable Mary J. Blige, released on December 21, 2009. This album stands as a beacon of resilience, showcasing Blige’s ability to evolve her sound while staying true to the emotional honesty that has defined her career. The recording sessions for “Stronger with Each Tear” were spread across various locations, including the famous Electric Lady Studios in New York City, among others, reflecting the album’s diverse sonic palette.
Blige collaborated with an impressive array of producers and songwriters on this project, including Ryan Leslie, Stargate, and Tricky Stewart, ensuring that each track resonated with her signature blend of soulful R&B and contemporary beats. The album also features guest appearances from notable artists such as Drake on “The One,” T.I. on “Good Love,” and Trey Songz on “We Got Hood Love,” adding a dynamic and modern edge to Blige’s deeply soulful expressions. The ensemble of musicians and background vocalists contributed to the rich, layered textures that have become synonymous with Blige’s sound.
Critically, “Stronger with Each Tear” was well-received, praised for its lyrical depth and Blige’s vocal performance, which effortlessly conveyed strength, vulnerability, and hope. The album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 chart, with first-week sales of 332,000 copies in the United States, signifying Blige’s continued relevance and impact in the music industry. The lead single, “I Am,” stood out for its poignant lyrics and compelling melody, capturing the essence of the album’s theme of growth and empowerment.
Released December 21, 2009
CD Track Listings:
1. “Tonight”
2. “The One” with Drake
3. “Said And Done”
4. “Good Love”
5. “I Feel Good”
6. “I Am”
7. “Each Tear”
8. “I Love U (Yes I Du)”
9. “We Got Hood Love”
10. “Kitchen”
11. “In The Morning”
12. “Color”
My Life II… The Journey Continues (Act 1)
Released November 21, 2011
My Life II… The Journey Continues (Act 1), released on November 21, 2011, is a seminal album by Mary J. Blige that serves as the sequel to her 1994 landmark album “My Life.” This ambitious project was not just a continuation but an evolution of Blige’s musical and personal journey, blending contemporary sounds with the soulful depth that has defined her career. Recording sessions for the album took place in various studios, including the iconic Henson Recording Studios in Los Angeles, showcasing Blige’s commitment to capturing the essence of her life’s continuing journey through a rich and diverse sonic landscape.
The album saw Blige collaborating with an array of top-tier producers and songwriters, such as Rodney Jerkins, Danja, Stargate, and Rico Love, among others, to create a sound that was both modern and reflective of her roots in R&B and soul. “My Life II” also features an impressive list of guest artists, including Drake on “Mr. Wrong,” Beyoncé on “Love a Woman,” and Nas on “Feel Inside,” contributing to the album’s dynamic and multifaceted nature. These collaborations, along with the contributions from a host of talented musicians and background vocalists, underscored the thematic richness and musical diversity of the album.
Critically, “My Life II… The Journey Continues (Act 1)” was received with acclaim, celebrated for its emotional depth, vocal prowess, and the seamless integration of contemporary and classic R&B elements. The album debuted at number five on the Billboard 200 chart, solidifying Blige’s enduring relevance in the music industry and her ability to resonate with both long-time fans and new listeners. Tracks such as “25/8” and “Mr. Wrong” stood out for their lyrical honesty and Blige’s unmistakable vocal delivery, encapsulating the spirit of resilience and empowerment that has been a hallmark of her work.
CD Track Listings:
1. “Intro”
2. “Feel Inside” – with Nas
3. “Midnight Drive”
4. “Next Level” – with Busta Rhymes
5. “Ain’t Nobody”
6. “25/8”
7. “Don’t Mind”
8. “No Condition”
9. “Mr. Wrong” – with Drake
10. “Why”- with Rick Ross
11. “Love A Woman” – with Beyoncé)
12. “Empty Prayers”
13. “Need Someone”
14. “The Living Proof”
A Mary Christmas
A Mary Christmas is Mary J. Blige’s first foray into the holiday music genre, released on October 15, 2013. This album stands out in her discography as a heartfelt tribute to the festive season, blending traditional Christmas carols with Blige’s soulful interpretation and emotive delivery.
Under the guidance of legendary producer David Foster, known for his work with some of the biggest names in music, A Mary Christmas brought a new level of sophistication and depth to holiday music. Foster’s production aimed to showcase Blige’s versatility as an artist, allowing her to explore a range of styles from classic holiday standards to more contemporary interpretations. The album features an array of talented musicians and orchestral arrangements, providing a lush backdrop to Blige’s vocals. Notable collaborations include a duet with Barbra Streisand on “When You Wish Upon a Star,” a pairing with Jessie J on “Do You Hear What I Hear?” and a special rendition of “The Christmas Song” with Chris Botti, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the holiday season.
Released October 15, 2013
CD Track Listings:
1. “Little Drummer Boy”
2. “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas”
3. “My Favorite Things”
4. “This Christmas”
5. “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire)”
6. “Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer”
7. “When You Wish Upon a Star” with Barbra Streisand and Chris Botti
8. “Mary, Did You Know”
9. “Do You Hear What I Hear?” with Jessie J
10. “Petit Papa Noel”
11. “The First Noel”
12. “Noche De Paz (Silent Night)” with Marc Anthony
Think Like a Man Too
Think Like A Man Too, released on June 17, 2014, is a unique project in Mary J. Blige’s illustrious career, serving as the soundtrack album for the comedy film “Think Like a Man Too.” Unlike traditional albums that feature a compilation of various artists’ tracks, this project saw Blige taking on the entire soundtrack, infusing the film’s themes with her iconic sound. The recording of the album took place in several studios, primarily in Los Angeles, where Blige and her team could tap into the city’s vibrant creative energy, ensuring that each track captured the essence of the movie’s Las Vegas setting and comedic yet heartfelt narrative.
The production of Think Like A Man Too brought together a diverse team of producers, including The-Dream and Tricky Stewart, who were instrumental in crafting the album’s contemporary R&B and pop sound. This collaboration led to a collection of songs that were not only cohesive with the film’s storyline but also stood out as individual tracks showcasing Blige’s versatility and emotional depth. The album features a blend of upbeat numbers fit for a Vegas-themed party, as well as more introspective tracks that echo the film’s underlying romantic and personal themes.
Released June 17, 2014
CD Track Listings:
1. “A Night To Remember”
2. “Vegas Nights” with The-Dream
3. “Moment Of Love”
4. “See That Boy Again” with Pharrell Williams
5. “Wonderful”
6. “Kiss And Make Up”
7. “Cargo”
8. “Suitcase”
9. “I Want You”
10. “Self Love”
11. “Power Back”
12. “All Fun And Games”
13. “Better”
14. “Propose”
The London Sessions
The London Sessions, released on November 24, 2014, marks a bold and transformative chapter in Mary J. Blige’s illustrious career. Seeking to expand her musical horizons, Blige ventured to the UK for an inspired collaboration with some of London’s most talented and innovative musicians and producers. The recording process, captured over a month-long period, took place in various studios across London, including the iconic RAK Studios. This geographical and cultural shift provided a fresh backdrop for Blige’s exploration into new sounds, blending her renowned R&B style with elements of British soul, house, and electronic music.
The album features a stellar lineup of British talent, including collaborations with Disclosure, Sam Smith, Emeli Sandé, and Naughty Boy, among others. These partnerships infused The London Sessions with a contemporary edge while maintaining the emotional depth and vocal prowess Blige is known for. The production team, comprising both established and emerging UK artists, helped to create a soundscape that was both familiar and novel, pushing Blige’s music into uncharted territories. Notable tracks like “Right Now,” co-written and produced by Disclosure, and “Whole Damn Year,” penned by Emeli Sandé, showcase the successful fusion of Blige’s soulful roots with the innovative spirit of the British music scene.
Released November 24, 2014
CD Track Listings:
1. “Therapy”
2. “Doubt”
3. “Not Loving You”
4. “When You’re Gone”
5. “Right Now”
6. “My Loving”
7. “Long Hard Look”
8. “Whole Damn Year”
9. “Nobody But You”
10. “Pick Me Up”
11. “Follow” (with Disclosure)
12. “Worth My Time”
Strength of a Woman
Strength of a Woman, released on April 28, 2017, is a poignant and powerful addition to Mary J. Blige’s discography, reflecting her resilience in the face of personal turmoil. This album, Blige’s thirteenth studio effort, was largely inspired by her own experiences of heartache and recovery, channeling her pain into a profound artistic expression. The recording sessions took place in various studios across the United States, creating a space for Blige to explore and articulate the depth of her emotions through music.
The production of Strength of a Woman saw Blige collaborating with a host of industry heavyweights, including DJ Camper, Brandon “B.A.M.” Hodge, and Hit-Boy, among others. This diverse production team helped to craft a sound that is both contemporary and classic, melding traditional R&B with modern beats and textures. The album features an impressive array of guest artists, including Kanye West on “Love Yourself,” Missy Elliott, DJ Khaled, and Quavo on “Glow Up,” and Kaytranada on “Telling the Truth,” adding a dynamic and multifaceted dimension to the project. These collaborations underscore Blige’s ability to connect with a broad spectrum of musical talents, enhancing the album’s appeal across different audiences.
Critically, Strength of a Woman was lauded for its raw honesty and Blige’s unwavering vocal delivery, which conveyed a deep sense of vulnerability and empowerment. The album debuted at number three on the Billboard 200, a testament to Blige’s enduring relevance and the strong connection she maintains with her listeners. Tracks such as “Thick of It” and “U + Me (Love Lesson)” resonated particularly strongly with fans, serving as anthems of resilience and self-discovery.
Released April 28, 2017
CD Track Listings:
1. “Love Yourself” – with Kanye West
2. “Thick Of It”
3. “Set Me Free”
4. “It’s Me”
5. “Glow Up” – with Quavo, DJ Khaled & Missy Elliott
6. “U + Me (Love Lesson)”
7. “Indestructible”
8. “Thank You”
9. “Survivor”
10. “Find The Love”
11. “Smile” – with Prince Charlez
12. “Telling The Truth” – with Kaytranada
13. “Strength Of A Woman”
14. “Hello Father”
Updated March 5, 2024