300 Entertainment US Vinyl & CDs

Review: Following her 2022 effort Good Morning Gorgeous, Gratitude reflects Blige's current state of grace and resilience while retracing the musical motifs that defined her 1990s heyday. Kicking off with 'Breathin', featuring Fabolous, the track melds nostalgia with fresh energy, sampling classics like Notorious B.I.G.'s 'Kick in the Door'. Blige's powerhouse vocals shine, though the production occasionally feels mismatched. Tracks like 'Need You More' featuring Jadakiss and 'Beautiful People' deliver rich grooves, revisiting her roots while embracing contemporary sounds. Highlights include the anthemic 'You Ain't the Only One' and the genre-defying 'Never Give Up on Me', which seamlessly blends funk, disco and soul. Ballads like 'Here I Am' and the empowering 'Superpowers' reaffirm Blige's vocal prowess and emotional depth. Collaborations with Fat Joe and A$AP Ferg on closing tracks 'God's Child' and 'I Got Plans' bring the album full circle with a nostalgic yet dynamic finish. Gratitude only serves to reinforce Blige's legacy, her vocals stronger than ever and her storytelling as compelling as it is heartfelt.