Since it’s Women’s History Month, let’s shine light on two ladies and their two masterpieces, One in a Million and Share My World, by Aaliyah and Mary J. Blige, respectively. Let’s chop it up.
Since Aaliyah’s album drop first, we’ll start with that one. One in a Million, Aaliyah’s second album, was released in August 1996. The stakes were high at the time. For one, it was her first release without R.Kelly, whom she worked with on her debut, Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number. Secondly, of course, was the sophomore-jinx. However, unfazed by either, she linked up with Timbaland and Missy Elliott to hit a homerun with “If Your Girl Only Knew,” the album’s lead single.
[Tune In To HipHop-Album-Debate, “The Podcast” Every Tuesday and Friday!]
The single performed well on the charts, peaking at the number 11 spot on the US Billboard Hot 100. It did better on the US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, reaching number 1.
Other singles such as “One in a Million,” “4 Page Letter,” and “Hot Like Fire” did well on the charts, too. “The One I Gave My Heart To” became the album’s highest-charting single, peaking at number 9 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
One in a Million peaked at the number 18 spot on the Billboard 200 and number 2 on Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums. The album was certified 2X platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Share My World, Mary’s third album, came the following year. Like Aaliyah, she did an overhaul in terms of creative team. Puff Daddy, whom helped with her first two albums, didn’t participate with this one. Nevertheless, Mary linked up with two of Minneapolis Sound forefathers, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, to create “Love Is All We Need,” the album’s lead single. Nas laced the single with a set of hot bars.
“I Can Love You,” the album’s second single, features Lil Kim. It reached 28 on the Billboard Hot 100.
“Everything,” “Missing You,” and “Seven Days” were the album’s other singles.
Share My World atop both the US Billboard 200 and Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums charts. It was certified 3X platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Lately, people have been receiving flack for putting black women against each other. Though I get the perspective, here’s my perspective: superb vs. subpar isn’t much of a conversation. However, superb vs. superb is. Just like One in a Million vs. Share My World.
RIP Aaliyah
‘One in a Million’ or ‘Share My World’?
[Polls Are Closed!]
Mary J. Blige – Share My World – 55%
Aaliyah – One in a Million – 45%
