Review: Mary J. Blige #TheLondonSessions

#O2O (One to One Network) has once again given me the opportunity to review a new CD by an artist that I was not previously familiar with.  I mean, I've heard of Mary J. Blige, but I honestly have never listened to any of her music. I must be alone in that because she's had a stellar career:

With eight multi-platinum albums, nine Grammy Awards (plus a staggering 31 nominations), a 2012 Golden Globe nomination, and four American Music Awards, Mary J Blige is a global superstar. And in ensuing years, the singer/songwriter has attracted an intensely loyal fan base – responsible for propelling worldwide sales of more than 50 million albums.

Capitol Music Group Chairman Steve Barnett calls Mary J. Blige's music "a one-of-a-kind blend of hip-hop and soul that has excited fans for more than 20 years" and made her one of the most successful and acclaimed artists in any genre of music. For this album, Mary J. Blige ventured into new musical territory by crossing the Atlantic to collaborate with some of this decade’s most celebrated UK musical talent – including Disclosure, Eg White, Emile Sandé, Jimmy Napes, Naughty Boy, SAM ROMANS and Sam Smith. 

Wow!  Why have I never listened to her before?  I have no idea but, judging by this CD (and all those awards), she is really good.  I have really enjoyed the strength and style of her voice as well as the music.  Some of the songs are really heart-felt, honest, and intense, while others just make you want to get up and dance.  The only thing I did not like is that there is some talk between some of the tracks, explaining some of the thought process behind the songs and the experience of recording.  While I liked having that information there, it was so much quieter than the actual songs, meaning I had to turn the volume way up to hear, and then when the music started again it was so loud.  Other than that, I really like this CD.  It's hard to pick a favorite, because each of the tracks has something to offer, but for now I'm really liking When You're Gone and the great dance beat of My Loving.

The London Sessions is available now, and you can download it from Amazon or iTunes.  Also available at Target, Walmart, etc.


Watch more Mary J. Blige videos on YouTube.

I participated in the Mary J Blige The London Sessions album review program as a member of One2One Network. I was provided a free album to review but all opinions are my own.