Mary J. Blige Is in "the Best Place She Has Been in a Long Time," Says Producer

Mary J. Blige's Capitol Records debut, The London Sessions, will include some of her best work, according to her executive producer, Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins.

In an interview with Billboard, Jerkins revealed how much Mary J. evolved while creating the project, which was recorded over the course of in 24 days in London. "Her growth spiritually. Listen to her vocals: It's the clearest and cleanest she has ever sounded," Jerkins says of his frequent collaborator. "Everyone is saying it. This is probably the best place she has been in a long time."

The hitmaker also recalled what inspired Mary to change her sound. "It was the day after Mary and Sam Smith had taped the live video for 'Stay with Me.' Steve [Barnett, Capitol chairman/CEO] and I pitched the idea of putting her with the best producers and songwriters in London, including Sam, Emeli Sande, Disclosure and others," Jerkins says.

Judge for yourself when The London Sessions arrives December 2.

photo via vibe