How education and upbringing influenced the life of Mary J. Blige. A timeline of key moments.
Mary J. Blige is a highly acclaimed American singer, songwriter, rapper, actress, and entrepreneur. Known as the "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul" and the "Queen of R&B," she has garnered numerous awards including nine Grammy Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, four American Music Awards, twelve NAACP Image Awards, and twelve Billboard Music Awards, inclusive of the Billboard Icon Award, solidifying her significant impact and influence in the music industry.
January 11, 1971: Mary J. Blige Born
On January 11, 1971, Mary Jane Blige was born. She is an American singer, songwriter, rapper, actress, and entrepreneur, known as the "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul" and "Queen of R&B".
Share
1988: Signed to Uptown Records
In 1988, Mary J. Blige's career began when she was signed to Uptown Records by Andre Harrell, the label's founder. During this time, she performed background vocals for other artists on the label.
Share
1988: Recorded Cover of Anita Baker Song
In early 1988, Mary J. Blige recorded a cover of Anita Baker's "Caught Up in the Rapture" at a recording booth in White Plains, New York.
Share
1989: Signed to Uptown Records
In 1989, at the age of 18, Mary J. Blige was signed to Uptown Records as a backup vocalist, becoming the company's youngest and first female artist.
Share
December 7, 2003: Marriage to Martin "Kendu" Isaacs
On December 7, 2003, Mary J. Blige married her manager, Martin "Kendu" Isaacs.
Share
2012: Performed for Barack Obama at Democratic National Convention
In 2012, Mary J. Blige performed for Barack Obama at the Democratic National Convention.
Share
July 9, 2014: Move to London for New Album
On July 9, 2014, following her concert at the Essence Festival, Mary J. Blige announced her move to London to explore a new sound for her upcoming album.
Share
July 2016: Filed for Divorce from Kendu Isaacs
In July 2016, Mary J. Blige filed for divorce from Martin "Kendu" Isaacs, citing "irreconcilable differences".
Share
October 2016: Release of "Thick of It" and "U + Me (Love Lesson)"
In October 2016, following her divorce, Mary J. Blige released two songs: "Thick of It" and "U + Me (Love Lesson)".
Share
June 21, 2018: Divorce Finalized with Kendu Isaacs
On June 21, 2018, Mary J. Blige and Martin "Kendu" Isaacs' divorce was finalized.
Share
2019: Sobriety
As of 2019, Mary J. Blige had been sober for several years, overcoming drug and alcohol addiction.
Share
December 2021: Formation of Mary Jane Productions label
In December 2021, Mary J. Blige formed her own label, Mary Jane Productions, in conjunction with 300 Entertainment, and released the singles "Good Morning Gorgeous" and "Amazing".
Share
February 2022: Interview with E! News
In February 2022, Mary J. Blige stated in an interview with E! News that she is a childfree person, enjoying her freedom and ability to travel without the responsibilities of childcare.
Share