There is no doubt that Mary J. Blige has helped to change the sound of R&B and the hearts of her loyal fans. Her non-apologetic approach to music that was soft and gentle has given this genre a universal flare. As Mrs. Blige prepares to bless us with “My Life II,” we look back throughout her career to see how she has changed the game and inspired people through her career.
1. Strength: Mary has fought her way through drug addiction and abusive relationships. Her relationship with Jodeci’s K-Ci was filled with drama, however she was able to show how you can be strong as a woman and move on. The song from the great soundtrack of life is “Not Goin Cry,” it talks about not crying and persevering through those turbulent days.
You were busy loving yourself
I would stop breathing if you told me to
Now you’re busy loving someone else
Eleven years out of my life
Besides the kids I have nothing to show
Wasted my years a fool of a wife
I shoulda have left your ass a long time ago
(Chorus)
Well I’m not gon cry,
I’m not gon cry,
I’m not gon shed no tears
No, I’m not gon cry,
it’s not the time
cuz you’re not worth my tears”
Not Goin Cry
2. Growth: There is nothing worse than watching a person or better yet an artist not mature. Evolution is a part of life. We have followed Mary J. from her beginnings to now, watching her refine qualities. From her humble feature on “I’ll Do For You” by Father MC we see how a dream can turn into a reality.
“If You Do For Me
I will Do For You”
I’ll Do For You – Father MC
3. Inspirational: Mary J. Blige’s journey has been inspirational to those that have been through the storms of life. As a high school dropout, she has taken herself out of the Schlobohm Apartments in the rough side of Yonkers, New York and put herself in a position where she can help others. Her charity FFAWN has been able to help young ladies in the New York area, that face some of the problems she did in her younger years.
Tired of all this drama
Yeah
(singin’)
Broken heart again
Another lesson learned
Better know your friends
Or else you will get burned
Gotta count on me
Cuz I can guarantee that I’ll be fine
No more pain (no more pain)
No more pain (no more pain)
No drama (no more drama in my life, no ones gonna make me hurt again)
No more in my life
No More Drama
We are lovers true and through
And though we made it through the storm
I really want you to realize
I really want to put you on
I’ve been searching for someone
To satisfy my every need
Won’t you be my inspiration
Be the real love that I need
Real love
I’m searching for the real love
Someone to set my heart free
Real love
I’m searching for a real love
Real Love
5. Game Changer: Mary J. Blige ushered in a new bold sound with the help of Puff Daddy and Andre Harrell for the game changing album “What’s the 411?” with singles such as “You Remind Me” and “Real Love.” These songs mixed the vibrations of the streets with emotion drenched vocals successfully intertwining the crack filled streets of the 90’s with the under laying melodies of Soul/Gospel. This would solidify her as the undisputed “Queen of Hip Hop Soul.” Hip Hop Soul and new jack swing helped her come out selling ahead of industry heavy weights such as Mariah Carey, Janet Jackson and Whitney Houston. Method Man and M.J.B.’s “You’re All I Need” was a perfect example of a game changer.
I took one look at you
And it was plain to see
You were my destiny
With you I’ll spend my time
I’ll dedicate my life
I’ll sacrifice for you
Dedicate my life for you
You’re All I Need
Mary has delivered heartfelt songs that have touched the life of many of her fans. How will she be able to touch the hearts of her die hard fans for this forthcoming album ‘My Life II: The Journey Continues?’
—— By: DOC
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