Romantic commitment and relational optimism characterize “Keep Your Head,” “Our Love” and the title track. On “Everything,” the artist praises a man for consistently chasing away her blues. Elsewhere, Blige seeks to overcome “all the negativity” in the world and experience peace. “Thank You Lord” praises God for her success . . .
. . . But the carnal often drowns out the spiritual. Songs such as “It’s On,” “Seven Days” and “Missing You” either reflect upon or fantasize about sexual encounters-not explicit, but not appropriate either. Profanities mar “Not Gon’ Cry” and “Love Is All We Need.”
Blige’s reputation is built on smooth R&B grooves and silky, Motown-inflected vocals. Lyrically, her World is a diverse place. Despite some romantic and spiritual messages, this disc suffers from mild profanity, simmering sexuality and questionable content from guest rappers.
