What makes Back of My Mind by H.E.R. notable?

'Back of My Mind' debuted at number six on the Billboard 200 chart and received critical acclaim for its introspective lyrics and production quality. It solidified H.E.R.'s place in contemporary R&B, earning her a Grammy Award for Best R&B Album and recognition as a defining voice of her generation. The album's explorations of vulnerability and authenticity resonated widely, influencing the soundscape of modern R&B. Released on June 18, 2021, 'Back of My Mind' is H.E.R.'s debut studio album after a series of successful EPs and singles. This moment marked her transition from rising star to established artist, building on the acclaim she received for her Grammy-winning projects and collaborations. The album reflects her growth as an artist and songwriter, showcasing her versatility across multiple genres.

Who is Back of My Mind for?

Back of My Mind works well if you're into steady emotional exploration throughout, introspective moments for reflection and for late-night listening.

How many songs are on Back of My Mind?

Back of My Mind has 21 tracks, running approximately 79 minutes.

Back of My Mind

H.E.R. · 2021

79 min · 21 tracks · contemporary R&B

A soulful blend of contemporary R&B, infused with personal narratives and smooth instrumental backdrops that evoke deep emotion.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Damage — This track stands out for its heartfelt exploration of vulnerability in relationships, combining catchy melodies with poignant lyrics about emotional risks.
→
Come Through — Featuring Chris Brown, this collaboration showcases seamless chemistry and highlights themes of longing and connection, capturing the essence of modern love.
→
Trauma — Here, H.E.R. delves into personal struggles with a raw honesty that adds depth to the album, supported by a haunting melody that underpins its emotional weight.
→
We Made It — Opening the album with a triumphant tone, this track sets the stage for H.E.R.'s narrative journey while celebrating resilience in overcoming adversity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

H.E.R.'s debut showcases strong songwriting and production but has uneven pacing and cohesion.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate live instrumentation alongside electronic elements, blending traditional R&B sounds with contemporary production techniques.
The pacing varies significantly, with the first half containing more upbeat tracks while the latter half shifts to slower, introspective ballads.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady emotional exploration throughout
introspective moments for reflection
for late-night listening
soulful grooves for deep connection
vulnerability in every track

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on June 18, 2021, 'Back of My Mind' is H.E.R.'s debut studio album after a series of successful EPs and singles. This moment marked her transition from rising star to established artist, building on the acclaim she received for her Grammy-winning projects and collaborations. The album reflects her growth as an artist and songwriter, showcasing her versatility across multiple genres.
Stylistic neighbors: SZA· Jhené Aiko· Daniel Caesar