At the time, I thought she would build on that to eventually record something that could be considered a classic.

It's not like she has no vocal skills. Plus she can afford the best writers/arrangers/musicians/producers.

From the way she used to talk, I assumed she really wanted to be on that legendary level a la Aretha. But Aretha put in a good decade (at least) before you could say she was coasting.

B has been coasting since the first album. I think she's more concerned with being famous/rich than being an artist.

I'm fine with that, but admit it and don't be comparing yourself to the greats.