The Art of Love & War

The Art of Love & War is the fourth studio album by American singer Angie Stone. It was released on October 15, 2007, by Stax Records. Her debut release with the then re-launched label, following her split with J Records in 2005, it saw Stone working with a group of less well-known musicians, including The Designated Hitters, Elijah "Vato" Harris, Ervin Pope and Jonathan Richmond, the latter of which went on to produce most material on the album. English actor and DJ Idris Elba contributed "My People," a duet with singer James Ingram. Stone co-wrote and produced or co-produced most songs on the album.

Upon release, The Art of Love & War earned generally mixed reviews from critics, some of whom complimented the well-crafted production and Stone's delivery, while others criticized the album for its number of downtempo songs, finding it too conservative. While less successful internationally, the album debuted and peaked at number 11 on the US Billboard 200 and number one on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums, becoming Stone's highest-charting album in the US. Lead single "Baby" featuring Betty Wright reached the top of the Adult R&B Songs chart and was nominated for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals at the 50th Annual Grammy Awards.