Earlier this month, it was announced that Mary J. Blige was relocating to London to work on her 12th studio album called “The London Sessions.” It was also revealed that British musician Naughty Boy would be overseeing the project. However, no other names were mentioned.
Yet, the album’s songwriting and production roster may not be a secret anymore. On Sunday, July 20, Naughty Boy publicized a photo via Twitter of him, Blige, Emeli Sandé and Rodney Jerkins. The photo caption read, “sick sunday vibes with @maryjblige @emelisande @RodneyJerkins #wejustchillin #thelondonsessions #sooncome.”
If the photo wasn’t telling enough, Sandé tweeted last week and hinted her involvement on “The London Sessions” album. “Writing with the legend Ms @maryjblige next week!!….#warmpenuptime,” posted the “Our Version of Events” artist.
While Sandé would be one of “U.K.’s finest new writers, producers and neo-soul singers” that has been recruited for Blige’s new album, Rodney Jerkins isn’t exactly the latest producer to hit the music scene. In fact, Jerkins isn’t from the U.K. but from New Jersey. Also, he’s worked with the “Suitcase” artist on past studio efforts including “Share My World,” and the “Think Like A Man” soundtrack.
Nonetheless, it’s still interesting to hear the outcome of the finish project.