Album Review: Mary J. Blige, Gratitude

Mary J. Blige

Gratitude (released November 15, 2024)

From Keyshia Cole in the 2000s to Summer Walker today, it seems like fans are constantly asking, “Who is the next woman to claim R&B’s throne of Hip-Hop Soul?”

And the answer remains the same – nobody. Not as long as Mary J. Blige is still with us.

You’d think that after more than three decades in the game MJB would be ready to wind things down, but that doesn’t seem to be the case. Since way back in 1992, she’s consistently released classic album after classic album, evolving all the way – maturing from heartbroken, sorrowful girl to a confident (but still vulnerable) woman whose pain and power has inspired generation of women. And with Mary lining up a 27-city tour in 2025, she decides to get that buzz buzzin’ again with Gratitude, her 15th studio album.

But Father Time is undefeated, and that takes a heavy toll on this project.

Y’all come here for real talk, right? So set’s just address the elephant in the room, shall we? There’s an unshakable weariness in MJB’s vocals today. And, no I don’t mean those emotionally draining performances that defined songs like “I’m Goin’ Down” or “Not Gon’ Cry.” Nah, many of these songs sound like Mary hit the booth after three Zumba classes, and that flatness drags down several high points.

More on that later – let’s talk about what works.

Although we acknowledge her as the queen of hip-hop soul, many of Mary’s more recent projects have lacked those rap elements that made her a legend. Gratitude takes her back to basics by bookending the project with four songs that feature hip-hop production while also tying in familiar samples. Very 90s, very mindful. The best of the bunch is “Need You More” with Jadakiss, with production that deftly balances its hard-hitting nature with a gentle breeziness. It might sound like a contradiction but it’s a satisfying blend.

First single “Breathing” gives us one of those trademark Fabolous guest verses, and he’s still as sharp as his chipped tooth in the 2000s. They pair well over a sample of “I Put a Spell on You,” the very break Biggie used in “Kick in the Door.” Likewise, Fat Joe joins MJB on “God’s Child,” where Mary waxes poetic about her incredible career: “you can catch me dancing in the rain now/I’m making millions off my pain now.” No more drama in her life, after all. Both songs SHOULD be winners, but both are pulled down by the flat energy of her performance. Thankfully, album closer “I Got Plans” with ASAP Ferg fares a bit better, mostly due to the well-flipped sample. It’s a nice joint for the aunties when they go club hoppin’.

The rest of the album falls more into the Modern Mary blueprint – uplifting, danceable cuts; motivational ballads and positive affirmations. Kaytranada shows up with his usual brand of infectious energy for “Beautiful People,” but again, Mary feels too weary to keep up with the pace. “You Ain’t the Only One” and “Never Give Up On Me” serve as a one-two punch of empowerment. The former reminds me of something from an 80s sitcom, and that’s not a diss – sure, the song’s themes are a bit heavy, but the upbeat lyrics provide a lot of hope, and Mary has always danced through her pain.

The most notable of the tracks midway through the album is “Nobody But You” – it’s the one time that Mary’s weary vocals actually add to the heaviness of the song, and those chord progressions are filled with 90s nostalgia. Producers Darkchild and D1 worked their magic on that one.

The rest of the album fails to make an impact. “Here I Am” is a tender but forgettable piano ballad, “Don’t F*** Up” ALMOST nails it but doesn’t quite get there, and “Superpowers” is sorely missing her trademark fire.

Listen, it’s unfair for fans to compare albums as legendary as What’s the 411, My Life and Share My World to anything 30 years in the future. Mary’s just not that person anymore. But even more recent projects like Strength of a Woman were a far stronger showcase of a woman who molded an entire genre in her image. True to its name, Gratitude will make you thankful for the little things – MJB’s positive lessons on love and life and her willingness to dive deep into her hip-hop roots – but it for sure leaves you wanting more.

Best tracks: “Need You More,” “Nobody But You”

3 stars out of 5