With the release of Mary J. Blige’s album “Good Morning Gorgeous”, it’s a good time to look back at her iconic catalog. Putting together a list of the best songs by legendary singer Mary J. Blige is no easy task. The iconic Queen of Hip-Hop Soul has given us so much good music over the past three decades that simply picking her best songs in nearly impossible.
The list you will find below represents an eclectic mix of songs from throughout Blige’s career. It would have been very simple to select all of the songs from her first few classic albums, but that wouldn’t be fair.
What we are reminded of when revisiting the discography of Mary J. Blige is how many times she’s been able to reinvent her sound while still creating great music that is true to her soul. The fact that you will find many of the songs she released from earlier in her career in our Top 10 is not an indication that she hasn’t released great music in recent years, but more so how timeless those earlier songs really were.
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Without further ado, here is our list of The Top 10 Best Mary J. Blige Songs in chronological order. (click any song title to listen to it).
This R&B classic released in 1992 from Mary’s debut album. It became one of her signature songs, blending hip-hop beats with soulful vocals, and it catapulted her to fame. “Real Love” is celebrated for its empowering lyrics and infectious groove, solidifying Mary J. Blige as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul.”
The title track from Mary J. Blige’s second studio album, released in 1994. It’s a deeply personal and introspective R&B song where Blige reflects on her struggles, growth, and resilience. The album and its title track are praised for their raw emotion, honesty, and Blige’s ability to connect with listeners through her soulful voice and poignant lyrics. “My Life” remains one of Mary J. Blige’s most iconic and influential songs.
An iconic representation of the timeless work Blige did with Chucky Thompson and Sean “Puffy” Combs on her first two albums.
This song showcases Blige’s powerful vocals and emotional depth, and is especially notable for its heartfelt lyrics and smooth production.
This Rodney Jerkins produced gem is the title track from Blige’s third studio album. The song’s lyrics express vulnerability and a desire for connection, reflecting Blige’s personal growth and evolution as an artist.
This Lauryn Hill written jam is notable for its emotional depth and vocal prowess, a highlight of Blige’s ability to convey genuine emotion through her music.
The lead single from Blige’s fifth album, this song has an infectious beat courtesy of Dr. Dre and undeniable groove.
The song became a major hit, topping the charts and earning Blige several awards, including a Grammy. “Be Without You” is praised for its powerful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and its portrayal of love and resilience, cementing its place as one of Blige’s most iconic songs.
“Work That” is an empowering R&B and hip-hop track where Blige celebrates self-confidence, inner strength, and overcoming adversity. The song showcases Blige’s ability to blend personal storytelling with empowering lyrics, making it a motivational anthem for many.
“U + Me (Love Lesson)” is a song by Mary J. Blige from her album “Strength of a Woman,” released in 2017. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and emotional delivery highlight Blige’s ability to connect with listeners through her personal experiences and soulful vocals.
Honorable Mention:
-You Remind Me (from the “What’s the 411?” album)
-Sweet Thing (from the “What’s the 411?” album)
-Reminisce (Remix featuring C.L. Smooth) (from the “What’s the 411? Remix” album)
-I’m Goin Down (from the “My Life” album)
-I Love You (from the “My Life” album)
-I Can Love You (featuring Lil’ Kim) (from the “Share My World” album)
-Seven Days (from the “Share My World” album)
-Not Gon’ Cry (from the “Waiting to Exhale” soundtrack)
-A Dream (from the “Money Talks” soundtrack)
-Beautiful (from the “How Stella Got Her Groove Back” soundtrack)
-Deep Inside (from the “Mary” album)
-Give Me You (from the “Mary” album)
-No More Drama (from the “No More Drama” album)
-Dance For Me (featuring Common) (from the “No More Drama” album)
-Don’t Go (from the “Love & Life” album)
-Ooh(from the “Love & Life” album)
-No One Will Do (from “The Breakthrough” album)
-Just Fine (from the “Growing Pains” album)
-Stay Down (from the “Growing Pains” album)
-I Am (from the “Stronger With Each Tear” album)
-25/8 (from the “My Life II… The Journey Continues (Act 1)” album)
-Suitcase (from the “Think Like a Man Too” soundtrack)
-Whole Damn Year (from “The London Sessions” album)
-Thick Of It (from the “Strength of a Woman” album)
-Good Morning Gorgeous (from the “Good Morning Gorgeous” album)
-Still Believe In Love (Non-Album Single)
