The songwriting for Mary J. Blige’s ninth studio album was born on her 2008 tour with Robin Thicke. Stronger withEach Tear was initially titled Stronger and its timely trappings – like the Auto-Tuned vocals on “The One (featuring Drake)” and the Motown- inspired “In the Morning,” and “Color – From the Motion Picture ‘Precious’” are sure to someday make for a nostalgic time capsule. But when Blige’s lead single from the soundtrack to the LeBron James documentary More Than a Game failed to make a big enough dent in the charts, the moniker was retooled. “Each Tear” is well worthy of such status; it’s catchy, inspiring and overflowing with the kinds of timeless R&B harmonies that Blige’s fans have come to expect. “I Am” is another standout as it reflects Blige’s sunnier disposition while maintaining the fierce confidence that fueled her former diva theatrics. Bonus track “Closer” grooves with mellow beats and melodic harmonies so infectious, it’s curious why this song wasn’t a regular album cut, if not a single.