Is This Is M.E. a good place to start with Melissa Etheridge?

Yes, This Is M.E. is recommended as a starting point for new Melissa Etheridge listeners. A raw and introspective collection of folk rock anthems that reflects personal struggles and triumphs through heartfelt storytelling. This Is M.E. marks Melissa Etheridge's first studio album since her battle with breast cancer, reflecting a period of resilience in her career. Released in 2014, it showcases her return to music after a four-year hiatus, following the critically acclaimed album 4th Street Feeling. Etheridge embraces her identity and experiences, offering fans a deeply personal glimpse into her life.

Who is This Is M.E. for?

This Is M.E. works well if you're into steady mid-tempo reflective moments, raw confessions about self-identity and for evening unwinding.

How many songs are on This Is M.E.?

This Is M.E. has 11 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

This Is M.E.

Melissa Etheridge · 2014

41 min · 11 tracks · folk rock

A raw and introspective collection of folk rock anthems that reflects personal struggles and triumphs through heartfelt storytelling.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Monster — This track stands out for its powerful exploration of fear and inner demons, encapsulating the struggle between vulnerability and strength. Etheridge’s impassioned delivery underscores the song's emotional weight.
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I Won’t Be Alone Tonight Start here — Opening the album, this track offers an uplifting message of hope and independence, setting the tone for Etheridge's personal narrative. Its driving rhythm complements the assertive lyrics about self-empowerment.
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A Little Bit of Me — This song captures Etheridge's self-reflection and authenticity, showcasing her ability to blend introspection with catchy melodies. It resonates with listeners as she navigates themes of self-acceptance.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

49 /100

Foothills

Higher than 22% of albums we've rated

The album balances emotional storytelling with a mix of tempos but lacks standout compositions.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features more upbeat tracks, while the second half shifts to slower, more reflective songs.
Etheridge's vocal delivery is often raw and unpolished, emphasizing emotional authenticity throughout the record.
Several tracks incorporate repetitive lyrical refrains that reinforce their central themes, creating a sense of continuity.

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

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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 mid-tempo reflective moments
raw confessions about self-identity
for evening unwinding
intimate storytelling in every track
great for solo listening sessions

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy party tracks
prefer instant gratification songs

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Shows Etheridge's resilience and continued creativity after a significant personal struggle.
Career context: This Is M.E. marks Melissa Etheridge's first studio album since her battle with breast cancer, reflecting a period of resilience in her career. Released in 2014, it showcases her return to music after a four-year hiatus, following the critically acclaimed album 4th Street Feeling. Etheridge embraces her identity and experiences, offering fans a deeply personal glimpse into her life.
Stylistic neighbors: Sheryl Crow· Janis Joplin· Pat Benatar