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
We’ve all seen Mary J. Blige transform over the years, but her most recent version—Mary J. Blige 2.0—has us absolutely mesmerized! She’s re-emerged with a whole new level of confidence and style that has us head over heels for the music icon. Whether it’s through her fashion, philanthropy or powerful voice, here are five reasons why we simply can’t get enough of Mary J. Blige 2.0:
First off, MJB2.0 brought a modern edge to her style both on and off stage; she looks effortlessly chic in everything from streetwear to evening gowns. From bold leather jackets layered over sequin dresses to tailored suits with sneakers underneath – if there’s one thing you can count on with Ms. Blige is that no two outfits will ever be alike!
Secondly, her career has been marked by inspiring activism for social justice issues like homelessness, poverty and violence against women. Not only does she use her platform to raise awareness about these causes, but also donates money to organizations that work towards finding solutions as well. It’s evident that Mary J.’s passion runs much deeper than just making music – she truly wants to make an impact too!
Musical Evolution
When it comes to her music, Mary J. Blige has always been ahead of the curve. From her early releases in 1992 with What’s The 411 and My Life, she quickly established herself as a powerhouse vocalist and songwriter who wasn’t afraid to explore difficult topics like heartbreak, loss, and resilience through her lyrics. She’s continuously reinvented her sound over the years while still retaining her signature R&B style. We love how she continues to push boundaries musically as well as lyrically by collaborating with hip-hop, rock, pop, EDM, and gospel artists.
Mary J. Blige also brings an incredible energy when performing live that can light up any stage! Her soulful voice is captivating whether she’s singing solo or dueting with another artist – you just can’t help but sing along. She truly knows how to move a crowd by bringing them into each performance with enthusiasm and grace despite whatever challenges they may be facing in their own lives.
We admire Mary J. Blige for staying true to herself throughout every stage of her career. Even though trends have changed drastically over the past few decades, she’s consistently stayed rooted in what matters most: creating music that speaks from the heart about real life experiences we all go through – both good and bad – without compromising on quality or authenticity.
Cultural Impact
Mary J. Blige has made an undeniable impact on the music and culture of today. She’s one of the few artists who have managed to bridge traditional R&B with hip-hop, creating a unique sound that resonates with audiences from all walks of life. Her songs are not only beloved by her fans but also revered for their lyrical content, which often speaks about difficult issues such as racism, injustice, depression, and heartache – providing comfort and hope in times of struggle.
Throughout her career she’s been able to use her platform to champion social causes close to her heart through songwriting, activism, and philanthropy. She’s collaborated with organizations like The Jeenee Project and Feeding America to raise awareness about hunger relief initiatives and help provide resources for communities in need. And with each socially conscious message she sends out into the world via her lyrics or interviews, it reminds us how important it is to stand together in solidarity when fighting for what we believe in.
The legacy Mary J. Blige leaves behind will continue to live on forever in our hearts and minds. With every album release or performance she reminds us of why we love her so much – because no matter what challenge comes our way, there’s always strength in numbers if we choose to unite towards a common cause. We can learn a lot from this living legend – both musically and culturally!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mary J. Blige 2.0 is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry and beyond. She has consistently evolved musically over her career and continues to redefine what it means to make meaningful pop music. Her impact on culture has been undeniable as she’s bridged gaps between generations and inspired people of all ages through her music and activism alike.
Mary J. Blige remains one of the most influential artists of our time and we love her for that. From her powerful lyrics to her ability to bring us together through song, she is an artist who will never go out of style – no matter how much the times change. We can always count on Mary J. Blige to continue making waves in the world of music and beyond, just like she’s done since 1992!
No matter what kind of day you’re having or where your life is at right now, there’s nothing quite like turning up some Mary J. Blige 2.0 jams – they’ll certainly get you feeling empowered, refreshed and ready to take on whatever comes your way!
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