Reflections - A Retrospective

As her generation’s preeminent soul singer, Mary J. Blige has bridged hip-hop and the pop mainstream even more than many platinum-selling rappers: Witness her easy moves among the likes of rock royalty such as Elton John and Bono. Even with such acceptance, she’s held on to credibility with her original audience; note that “Be Without You,” her 2006 hit included on this large-scale best-of, spent three months atop the R&B chart. Reflections brings together tracks dating from Blige’s 1992 emergence, stopping along the way for many beloved moments of pain and hard-won happiness. Four new tracks, including the proud title cut, are included for those who’ve taken those steps with her. Everyone else will be glad for this quick catch-up with one of current music’s finest voices and most interesting personas.