Unlike certain other R&B-pop stars unveiling their new music video today, Mary J. Blige knows how to wistfully stroll down a beach with sophistication. In her new vid for “I Am,” Mary’s showcases her vocals—and rocks some pretty sweet full-length frocks—while trying to convince her lover she’s the best one out there. (No need to tell Robin Thicke that.) Preview tracks of Mary’s Stronger with Every Tear, out December 21, after the jump.

Sounds pretty promising, and this sampler alone is a lot more upbeat (and packed with hit potential) than anything we heard on Rihanna’s Rated-R—maybe Mary will have the hit album that RiRi didn’t?