Common Sense Note
Parents need to know although Mary J. Blige's songs are deeply rooted in personal experience and she doesn't treat emotions or relationships lightly, they don't get too heavy or explicit. Older tweens and teens (and parents!) will enjoy the positive lyrics about rising above life's hurdles, and embracing individuality, self-esteem, and confidence -- and the fact that that any sex talk is subtle and in good taste.
Families can talk about how the media portrays women and what Blige is saying about these images. How does advertising contribute to low self-esteem? Is this an issue exclusive to women or are men and boys also affected? Does Blige examine these stereotypes or conform to them?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Jacqueline Rupp
The blues seem to be out of Mary J. Blige these days, but thankfully her soul is well intact. Her latest album, appropriately titled GROWING PAINS, is an ultra-positive set of tracks dedicated to embracing yourself. These are lyrics from a survivor; someone whose been through the rough times and has come out that much stronger ("It ain't all roses, it ain't all candy"). Blige orchestrates this narrative with direct sincerity and some light touches of sass and seems more concerned with self-love than drama-filled relationships. She's one of the chief writers on this album and is at her best on the solo tracks where her mature, controlled voice truly shines. She can turn a phrase with a class that most of her contemporaries wouldn't have the vocal presence to pull off. The lyrics "I hear you've been running from the woman you could be becoming…I just want to be myself, don't follow me, be yourself...it's okay to show yourself some love" ("Work That") are part of the hip-hop infused anthem for girl power. Blige's ultimate message is a powerful one of self-acceptance, which should be especially relevant for tween and teen girls ("Sometimes I get depressed trying to be complete/just understand we are all just a work in progress").
For other empowering female vocalists, try Alicia Keys or Lauryn Hill.
Reviewed: 12/27/2007
Rate It!
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Sexual ContentScattered sexual innuendo ("Babe if you love me like you say you do/kiss me, fix me up like I'm all that you got" and "I got what you want/what you need/is all in me"). |
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LanguageOnly a few words that might be considered objectionable. |
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Social BehaviorPositive messages of self-empowerment, respect, and confidence. |
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CommercialismSeveral references to buying things and designer clothes. |
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