Critic's choice: Mary J. Blige and Jay-Z

March 21, 2008

Mary J. Blige and Jay-Z, two titans of modern soul and hip-hop, unite for a major spring tour called "Heart of the City." It's in support of their latest CDs -- Blige's "Growing Pains" and Jay-Z's "American Gangster." Both were among last year's most acclaimed albums. The show, which is at 1st Mariner Arena on March 26, marks the first time in more than 15 years that a black female and male of such stature have co-headlined a tour -- since Anita Baker and Luther Vandross, in 1989. With Blige's newfound zest for life and Jay-Z's unshakably cool demeanor, this pairing should be interesting.

See Mary J. Blige and Jay-Z at 1st Mariner Arena, 201 W. Baltimore St., on March 26. Tickets are $49.75-$124.75. Call 410-547-7328 or go to ticketmaster.com.

Rashod D. Ollison