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The Breakthrough (by Mary J. Blige, R&B)

common sense media says

No-nonsense girlfriend talk from a soul queen.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that there is some sexual innuendo and a few uses of "s--t," along with a lot of supportive and empowering messages for young women.

Positive messages: Really supportive messages for girls who need them.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Some sexual innuendo.
Language: "S--t" appears once or twice.
Consumerism: Crest toothpaste insert in packaging.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
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More on The Breakthrough

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about whether or not stars really have the power to help young people deal with trouble in their own lives.

What's the story?

What's the story?
On her seventh album, THE BREAKTHROUGH, Mary J. Blige turns in another absolutely stunning performance as Soul Queen of the new millennium. An extraordinary list of cameo performers includes Brook, Jay-Z, Raphael Saadig, and Bono, but it's Mary J. Blige's show all the way -- her charisma and presence outshine her stellar supporters. High points are the "girlfriend" songs, especially "Good Woman Down," in which she offers comfort to girls in trouble: "In my life I've seen it all/Now it's time for me to pass on this knowledge to you/All my sisters/My troubled sisters/This is my gift to you." There is also a lot of love stuff: passionate and alternating between messages of giving up everything for love and standing up for oneself no matter how hard that may be.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
Lyrics contain some sexual innuendo and a couple of instances of the "s" word -- but with her usual supportive-big-sister good sense, mixed with a heaping portion of give-it-all-up-for-your-love heartbreak, Blige's message is real, solid, honest, and all too human. The instrumental tracks are exquisitely produced, and the interplay of lead and background vocals lives up to standards set by other albums. Sublimely constructed, this exquisite album expresses real feelings in hard times, yet maintains the spirit to keep going no matter what.

Music themes & details

Music Details
Released on: December 20, 2005
Label: Geffen Records
Genre: R&B
This review was written by Kathi Kamen Goldmark
 
 

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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
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