Mary J. Blige My Life II: The Journey Continues

Typically, artists have looked to their successful debut when they recording a "sequel" project. But that's not always the case as sometimes, it's the sophomore record that truly catches a buzz. Case in point: Mary J. Blige, who admittedly did pretty damn well with her debut, too. But she chose her second record, 1994's My Life, to give the sequel treatment. My Life II: The Journey Continues is the singer's tenth album and first since 2009's Stronger With Each Tear. The second My Life features collaborations with the likes of Diddy and Lil Wayne, both of whom appeared on lead single "Someone to Love Me." According to USA Today, Blige said that "this album is a reflection of the times and lives of people all around me."

Abstract by Andrew Martin