Mary J. Blige is an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and actress known as the "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul" and "Queen of R&B." Her illustrious career boasts nine Grammy Awards, an Emmy Award, and numerous other accolades, including Billboard Music Awards and NAACP Image Awards. Blige's talent extends to acting, earning her nominations for both Golden Globe and Academy Awards. Notably, she received dual nominations for her role and original song in the film "Mudbound," making history in the process.
January 11, 1971: Birth of Mary J. Blige
On January 11, 1971, Mary J. Blige, the iconic "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul," was born.
1988: Early Musical Pursuits and Discovery
In 1988, Mary J. Blige's musical journey took a significant turn when an impromptu recording of her singing Anita Baker's "Caught Up in the Rapture" caught the attention of industry professionals. This chance encounter set in motion the events that would lead to her signing with Uptown Records.
1988: Career Beginnings and Early Influences
Mary J. Blige's musical journey began in 1988, marked by her signing with Uptown Records. This pivotal moment set the stage for her rise to fame in the coming years.
1989: Signing with Uptown Records
A pivotal year for Mary J. Blige, 1989 marked her official signing with Uptown Records. As the label's youngest and first female artist, she embarked on a path that would transform her into a music icon.
1991: Nielsen SoundScan Data Milestone
In 1991, Nielsen SoundScan started collecting data, marking a significant shift in the music industry for tracking album sales and performance.
July 28, 1992: Release of "What's the 411?" and Critical Acclaim
July 28, 1992, marked the release of Mary J. Blige's groundbreaking debut album, "What's the 411?" The album received widespread critical acclaim, establishing Blige as a rising star in the music industry.
1992: Debut Album "What's the 411?" Released
In 1992, Mary J. Blige released her groundbreaking debut album, "What's the 411?" This album not only showcased her powerful vocals but also introduced a groundbreaking blend of R&B and hip hop, forever changing the landscape of popular music.
1993: Soul Train Music Awards and Critical Recognition
In 1993, Mary J. Blige's debut album, "What's the 411?", earned her two Soul Train Music Awards: Best New R&B Artist and Best R&B Album, Female. The album was also recognized by critics, solidifying her status as a rising star in the music industry.
1993: Recording "My Life" Amidst Personal Challenges
In the winter of 1993, Mary J. Blige began recording her second album, "My Life." During this time, she was facing personal challenges, battling depression, addiction, and an abusive relationship.
1993: The Remix Revolution and Genre Fusion
Mary J. Blige continued to innovate in 1993 with the release of the remix album for "What's the 411?" This marked a significant moment as it was the first album by a singer to feature a rapper on every song, solidifying the fusion of R&B and hip hop.
November 29, 1994: Release of Sophomore Album "My Life"
On November 29, 1994, Mary J. Blige released her highly anticipated second album, "My Life." This album marked a significant step in her career, showcasing her growth as an artist and her ability to connect with audiences on a deeper level.
1994: Release of Critically Acclaimed Album "My Life"
In 1994, Mary J. Blige released her second studio album, "My Life," a deeply personal and critically acclaimed work. The album delved into themes of vulnerability, heartbreak, and resilience, resonating deeply with audiences and further solidifying her status as a groundbreaking artist.
1994: Co-founding of Mary Jane Productions
Mary J. Blige, in partnership with her then-manager, Steve Stoute, co-founded the production company Mary Jane Productions in 1994.
1994: The Enduring Legacy of "What's the 411?" Remix
The remix album for "What's the 411?," released in late 1993, continued to make waves in 1994, further extending the reach and impact of Blige's music.
1995: Relationship with Cedric "K-Ci" Hailey and Engagement Confirmation
During a 1995 interview on "The Word," a UK television show, Mary J. Blige confirmed her engagement to singer Cedric "K-Ci" Hailey of the R&B group Jodeci, with whom she had been in a relationship for six years.
1996: Collaborations and Soundtrack Success
In 1996, Mary J. Blige showcased her versatility by contributing to various soundtracks, including "New York Undercover," "The Show," and "Waiting to Exhale." Her single "Not Gon' Cry" from "Waiting to Exhale" achieved platinum status, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100. Blige also collaborated with artists like Method Man, Jay-Z, Ghostface Killah, and Case, further solidifying her presence in the R&B and hip-hop scene.
1996: Beginning of Relationship with Case
Mary J. Blige's relationship with singer Case began in 1996.
February 1997: Grammy Nomination and Performance
In February 1997, Mary J. Blige delivered a powerful performance of her hit single "Not Gon' Cry" at the Grammy Awards. This performance earned her a third Grammy Award nomination, her first in the Best Female R&B Vocal Performance category.
April 22, 1997: Release of 'Share My World'
On April 22, 1997, Mary J. Blige released her third album, "Share My World," marking a departure from her previous work with Sean Combs. The album, executive-produced by the Trackmasters and Steve Stoute, featured a more upbeat and positive tone, reflecting Blige's personal growth and journey toward overcoming personal challenges.
1998: Acting Debut in "The Jamie Foxx Show"
Mary J. Blige made her acting debut in 1998 on "The Jamie Foxx Show," playing the role of Ola Mae, a preacher's daughter who aspired to sing beyond gospel music.
1998: End of Relationship with Case
Mary J. Blige's relationship with Case ended in 1998.
1998: 'Share My World' Tour and American Music Award
Mary J. Blige's album "Share My World" earned her an American Music Award for 'Favorite Soul/R&B Album' in early 1998. The success of the album led to the 'Share My World Tour' that summer, resulting in a gold-certified live album, "The Tour," later that year.
August 17, 1999: Release of 'Mary'
Mary J. Blige released her fourth studio album, "Mary," on August 17, 1999. This album showcased a departure from her previous hip hop-influenced sound, exploring a more mature and soulful sound reminiscent of 1970s and early 1980s soul music.
December 14, 1999: Re-release of 'Mary'
On December 14, 1999, Mary J. Blige re-released "Mary" as a double-disc set. The second disc included music videos, bonus tracks featuring collaborations with artists like Nas, Andy Hogan, DMX, Funkmaster Flex, and Big Kap. The album received critical acclaim and achieved double-platinum status.
October 2000: "Your Child" Remix Success
In October 2000, the club remix of Mary J. Blige's "Your Child" reached the top spot on Billboard's Hot Dance Club Play chart, demonstrating her music's versatility and appeal in different musical settings.
2000: Appearance in Superhero Web Cartoon and Performance on "Mary Show Tour"
Mary J. Blige was featured in a superhero web cartoon created in collaboration with Stan Lee in 2000. The cartoon was incorporated into her performances during her "Mary Show Tour" that year.
January 2001: Super Bowl XXXV Halftime Show Performance
In January 2001, Mary J. Blige was a special guest performer during the Super Bowl XXXV halftime show, showcasing her talent on one of the world's biggest stages.
August 28, 2001: Release of 'No More Drama'
August 28, 2001, marked the release of "No More Drama," Mary J. Blige's fifth studio album, released through MCA Records. The album featured the smash hit "Family Affair," produced by Dr. Dre, which became her first and only single to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100, holding the top spot for six weeks.
2001: Starring Role in "Prison Song" and Guest Appearance in "Strong Medicine"
In 2001, Mary J. Blige starred opposite rapper Q-Tip in the independent film "Prison Song." That same year, she made a guest appearance on the Lifetime series "Strong Medicine," playing Simone Fellows, a singer battling an illness.
2001: Acting Debut in "Prison Song"
In 2001, Mary J. Blige took on a new creative challenge, making her acting debut in the film "Prison Song." This marked the beginning of her foray into the world of film and television, expanding her artistic horizons.
2001: Release of 'Ballads'
In 2001, Mary J. Blige released "Ballads," a Japan-only compilation album featuring covers of classic songs like Stevie Wonder's "Overjoyed" and previously recorded renditions of "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" and "Misty Blue." This release highlighted her vocal talent and respect for musical legends.
January 29, 2002: Re-release of 'No More Drama'
On January 29, 2002, MCA Records repackaged and re-released "No More Drama" with a new album cover, tracklist adjustments, and the addition of new songs, including the top-twenty hit "Rainy Dayz" featuring Ja Rule.
April 2002: VH1 Divas Performance
In April 2002, Mary J. Blige showcased her talent on VH1 Divas, a live concert in Las Vegas. She delivered memorable performances of "No More Drama" and "Rainy Dayz" with Whitney Houston, and joined Shakira for a powerful rendition of "Love Is a Battlefield."
July 22, 2002: Release of 'Dance for Me'
On July 22, 2002, MCA Records released "Dance for Me," a collection of club remixes showcasing Mary J. Blige's hits. The album featured remixes by renowned DJs like Junior Vasquez and Thunderpuss, making it popular in nightclubs.
2002: "My Life" Named One of the Greatest American Albums
In 2002, Mary J. Blige's album "My Life" received significant recognition when it was ranked number 57 on Blender's list of the 100 greatest American albums of all time.
August 26, 2003: Release of 'Love & Life'
On August 26, 2003, Mary J. Blige's sixth studio album, "Love & Life," was released on Geffen Records, marking her first release after Geffen absorbed MCA Records. This album saw Blige collaborating again with Sean Combs, raising anticipation due to their successful history on previous projects.
December 7, 2003: Marriage to Martin "Kendu" Isaacs
On December 7, 2003, Mary J. Blige married her manager, Martin "Kendu" Isaacs.
2003: Critical Acclaim for "My Life" Album
In 2003, "My Life" by Mary J. Blige earned significant recognition, securing the 279th spot on Rolling Stone magazine's esteemed list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. The album also received the honor of being included in Time magazine's prestigious list of the 100 Greatest Albums of All Time.
2004: Launch of Matriarch Records
Mary J. Blige established her own record label, Matriarch Records, in 2004, distributed through Interscope.
2004: Off-Broadway Debut in "The Exonerated"
In 2004, Mary J. Blige made her Off-Broadway debut in "The Exonerated," a play about the experiences of death row inmates. She played Sunny Jacobs, a woman wrongly imprisoned for 20 years.
December 20, 2005: The Breakthrough Release
On December 20, 2005, Mary J. Blige released her seventh studio album, "The Breakthrough," with Geffen Records. The album featured collaborations with prominent artists and producers. Its cover art was shot by Markus Klinko & Indrani.
2005: Landing the Role of Nina Simone in Upcoming Biopic
In late 2005, Mary J. Blige was reported to have landed the lead role in a biopic about singer and activist Nina Simone, produced by MTV Films.
November 2006: American Music Awards Success
In November 2006, Mary J. Blige won two American Music Awards, contributing to her successful season sweep of major music awards.
December 2006: Reflections (A Retrospective) and Collaborations
Mary J. Blige released a compilation album titled "Reflections (A Retrospective)" in December 2006. This album featured a collection of her hit songs along with four new tracks. She also collaborated with artists like Ludacris and participated in the soundtrack of the movie "Bobby."
December 2006: Billboard Music Awards Triumph
Mary J. Blige's success continued in December 2006 as she won nine Billboard Music Awards, further solidifying her impact on the music scene.
2006: Legends Award at the World Music Awards
Mary J. Blige's contributions to the music industry were recognized in 2006 when she received the prestigious Legends Award at the World Music Awards.
2006: "My Life" Included in Time's 100 Greatest Albums
In 2006, Mary J. Blige's album "My Life" received further acclaim when it was included in Time magazine's list of the 100 greatest albums of all time, solidifying its place as a modern classic.
February 2007: Guest Appearance on "Ghost Whisperer"
In February 2007, Mary J. Blige guest-starred on the television show "Ghost Whisperer." She appeared in the episode "Mean Ghost" as Jackie Boyd, a character coping with the loss of her brother.
August 2007: Guest Appearance on "Entourage"
In August 2007, Mary J. Blige made a guest appearance as herself on the HBO comedy-drama series "Entourage." She was depicted as a client of the show's fictional agency, led by Ari Gold.
October 2007: Guest Appearance on "America's Next Top Model"
Mary J. Blige appeared as a guest judge and creative director for a photoshoot by Matthew Rolston on an episode of "America's Next Top Model" in October 2007.
December 18, 2007: Growing Pains Release
On December 18, 2007, Mary J. Blige released her eighth studio album, "Growing Pains," which achieved significant commercial success by debuting at number two on the Billboard 200 chart and securing the top spot on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.
2007: Voice of Music Award from ASCAP
Further solidifying her influence in the music industry, Mary J. Blige was honored with the Voice of Music Award from ASCAP in 2007. This award recognized her impact on the world of music and her enduring legacy.
2007: Christmas in Washington Performance
Mary J. Blige appeared as a featured performer on the annual "Christmas in Washington" television special in 2007, showcasing her talent and contributing to the festive holiday program.
2007: Grammy Award Recognition
Mary J. Blige received eight Grammy Award nominations in 2007, a testament to her influence and the impact of her album "The Breakthrough." This recognition solidified her standing as a leading figure in the music industry.
2007: Collaboration with 50 Cent
Mary J. Blige was featured on 50 Cent's 2007 album "Curtis" in the song "All of Me," showcasing her versatility and collaborations with prominent artists in the hip-hop genre.
February 2008: Growing Pains UK Release
In February 2008, Mary J. Blige's album "Growing Pains" was released in the UK. The album achieved considerable success, becoming her fifth top-ten album in the region.
March 2008: Heart of the City Tour and BET Special
In March 2008, Mary J. Blige embarked on the Heart of the City Tour with Jay-Z, further solidifying her presence in the music scene. BET also aired a special dedicated to her career, titled "The Evolution of Mary J. Blige," highlighting her influence and impact on the industry.
August 7, 2008: Lawsuit over "Work That"
On August 7, 2008, Mary J. Blige faced a $2 million lawsuit alleging that the music for her song "Work That" was used without proper authorization. The lawsuit claimed that Dream Family Entertainment owned the rights to the music and did not grant permission to Blige, Feemster, or Geffen Records. However, the rights to the lyrics used in an iPod commercial were not disputed.
January 2009: Obama Inaugural Celebration Performance
Mary J. Blige participated in the Presidential Inauguration Committee's "We Are One: The Obama Inaugural Celebration at the Lincoln Memorial" in January 2009, showcasing her support and contribution to the historic event.
January 20, 2009: Presidential Inauguration Performance
Mary J. Blige delivered a memorable performance at the Neighborhood Inaugural Ball following Barack Obama's inauguration as President on January 20, 2009. Her performance of "Just Fine" with a new intro added to the celebratory atmosphere of the event.
February 8, 2009: Grammy Award Win
Mary J. Blige won a Grammy Award for "Best Contemporary R&B Album" for "Growing Pains" on February 8, 2009. This win marked her 27th Grammy nomination, showcasing her consistent impact on the music industry.
May 2009: Guest Appearance on "30 Rock"
Mary J. Blige made a cameo appearance on an episode of the comedy series "30 Rock" in May 2009, portraying an artist working on a benefit song for a kidney.
August 2009: "Stronger" Recording
In August 2009, Mary J. Blige recorded "Stronger," which was later featured as the lead single for the basketball documentary "More than a Game."
September 2009: Supporting Role in "I Can Do Bad All by Myself"
In September 2009, Mary J. Blige appeared in a supporting role in Tyler Perry's film "I Can Do Bad All by Myself."
November 4, 2009: National Anthem Performance and World Series Appearance
Mary J. Blige performed The Star-Spangled Banner at Yankee Stadium on November 4, 2009, before game six of the World Series between the New York Yankees and the Philadelphia Phillies. She also performed a selection of her hits at the game.
December 2009: "I Am" Release
Mary J. Blige released "I Am," the second single from her "Stronger with Each Tear" album, in December 2009. The song reached number fifty-five on the Hot 100.
December 21, 2009: "Stronger with Each Tear" Release
On December 21, 2009, Mary J. Blige released her ninth studio album, "Stronger with Each Tear." The album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200, marking her fifth album to miss the top spot.
2009: Expansion into Television and Film Projects
In 2009, Mary J. Blige's production company, in collaboration with William Morris Endeavor, was actively involved in the development of various television and film projects.
January 13, 2010: "American Idol" Guest Appearance
On January 13, 2010, Mary J. Blige made a guest appearance as a judge on the ninth season of "American Idol."
February 2010: "Each Tear" International Remixes
In February 2010, international remixes of Mary J. Blige's single "Each Tear," featuring different artists from various countries, were released.
February 2010: Charity Performances and Grammy Awards
Mary J. Blige participated in several charitable musical events in February 2010, including the "Hope for Haiti Now" telethon, BET's "SOS Help For Haiti," and the "We Are the World 25 for Haiti." She also performed "Bridge over Troubled Water" with Andrea Bocelli at the Grammy Awards.
March 2010: "We Got Hood Love" Release and "Stronger with Each Tear" UK Release
March 2010 saw the release of "We Got Hood Love," the third single from Mary J. Blige's "Stronger with Each Tear" album, featuring Trey Songz. Additionally, the album itself was released in the United Kingdom and other European markets.
July 2010: Launch of "My Life" Fragrance
In July 2010, Mary J. Blige, in partnership with the Home Shopping Network (HSN) and Carol's Daughter, launched her debut fragrance, "My Life." The fragrance, launched exclusively on HSN, broke sales records and was recognized with two FIFI awards from the Fragrance Foundation.
August 2010: "What's the 411?" Achieves Remarkable Sales Milestone
By August 2010, Mary J. Blige's debut album, "What's the 411?", had achieved a remarkable sales milestone, surpassing 3 million copies sold in the United States.
October 2010: Launch of "Melodies by MJB" Sunglasses Line
Mary J. Blige unveiled "Melodies by MJB," her own line of sunglasses, in October 2010. The initial collection comprised four styles with a variety of color options.
November 18, 2010: Billboard Recognition
On November 18, 2010, Billboard named Mary J. Blige the most successful female R&B/hip hop artist on their Top 50 R&B/Hip Hop Artists of the Past 25 Years list, ranking her second overall.
2010: VH1's 100 Greatest Artists of All Time
Mary J. Blige was ranked 80th on VH1's list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time in 2010, solidifying her status as a music icon.
2010: Departure from Nina Simone Biopic
By the spring of 2010, Mary J. Blige, initially set to star as Nina Simone alongside David Oyelowo as her manager Clifton Henderson, withdrew from the project due to financial constraints, leading to Zoe Saldana's casting.
January 2011: "Someone to Love Me (Naked)" Premiere
Mary J. Blige's teaser track "Someone to Love Me (Naked)," featuring vocals from Lil Wayne, premiered on Hot 97 in January 2011.
May 2011: Start of Filming for "Rock of Ages"
Production for the film adaptation of the jukebox musical "Rock of Ages" began in May 2011, with Mary J. Blige starring as Justice Charlier, the owner of a Sunset Strip club.
July 2011: "The Living Proof" Release and "Behind the Music" Premiere
July 2011 marked the release of Mary J. Blige's single "The Living Proof," featured on the soundtrack of the film "The Help." Additionally, VH1 premiered their third "Behind the Music" special, profiling Blige's life and career.
August 2011: Launch of "My Life Blossom" Fragrance
Following the success of her first fragrance, Mary J. Blige introduced another scent, "My Life Blossom," which was exclusively available on HSN.
August 2011: "25/8" Release
In August 2011, Mary J. Blige released "25/8," the first single from her upcoming album.
November 2011: "My Life II... The Journey Continues (Act 1)" Release
Mary J. Blige's tenth studio album, "My Life II... The Journey Continues (Act 1)" was released in November 2011, featuring production by Kanye West and The Underdogs.
2011: Expansion of "Melodies by MJB" Sunglasses Line
Mary J. Blige's "Melodies by MJB" sunglasses line expanded its collection, offering a wider range of styles to consumers.
2011: Ranked Among VH1's Greatest Artists
Mary J. Blige's impact on music was further acknowledged in 2011 when VH1 ranked her as the 80th greatest artist of all time, solidifying her status as a true icon.
February 28, 2012: National Anthem Performance at NBA All-Star Game
Mary J. Blige performed the "Star Spangled Banner" at the 2012 NBA All-Star Game on February 28, 2012.
March 7, 2012: "American Idol" Guest Mentor
Mary J. Blige appeared as a guest mentor on "American Idol" on March 7, 2012.
June 2012: Release of "Rock of Ages" Film
The film adaptation of the musical "Rock of Ages," in which Mary J. Blige stars alongside Tom Cruise, Julianne Hough, and Alec Baldwin, was released in June 2012.
October 22, 2012: Collaboration on Kendrick Lamar's "Good Kid, M.A.A.D City"
Mary J. Blige was featured on the song "Now or Never" from Kendrick Lamar's album, "Good Kid, M.A.A.D City," which was released on October 22, 2012.
2012: Signing of Just'Us to Matriarch Records
Mary J. Blige signed the girl group Just'Us to her label, Matriarch Records, in 2012, intending to develop their debut album, although the project ultimately did not come to fruition.
2012: Recognized Among VH1's Greatest Women in Music
In 2012, VH1 further celebrated Mary J. Blige's contributions to music, placing her ninth on their list of "The 100 Greatest Women in Music." This recognition highlighted her enduring impact and influence on female artists.
2012: Appearance in "Rock of Ages"
In 2012, Mary J. Blige showcased her versatility with a role in the musical film "Rock of Ages." Her appearance in the film further demonstrated her ability to seamlessly transition between music and acting.
2012: Performance at the Democratic National Convention
As a Democrat, Mary J. Blige performed for Barack Obama at the 2012 Democratic National Convention.
February 2013: Premiere of "Betty and Coretta"
The Lifetime movie "Betty and Coretta," starring Mary J. Blige as Dr. Betty Shabazz alongside Angela Bassett, Malik Yoba, and Lindsay Owen Pierre, premiered in February 2013.
October 15, 2013: "A Mary Christmas" Release
On October 15, 2013, Mary J. Blige released "A Mary Christmas," her first Christmas album, through Matriarch and Verve Records. The album featured collaborations with Barbra Streisand, the Clark Sisters, Marc Anthony, and Jessie J.
October 23, 2013: World Series National Anthem Performance
Mary J. Blige performed the national anthem before Game 1 of the 2013 World Series on October 23, 2013.
2013: Roles in "Betty and Coretta" and "Black Nativity"
Mary J. Blige continued to take on compelling roles in 2013, appearing in both "Betty and Coretta" and "Black Nativity." These roles highlighted her acting range and her commitment to portraying complex characters.
February 5, 2014: "F For You" Remix Release
A remix of Disclosure's "F for You," featuring vocals from Mary J. Blige, was released on February 5, 2014.
May 2014: Collaboration on Mariah Carey's "It's a Wrap"
In May 2014, Mary J. Blige was featured on Mariah Carey's song "It's a Wrap," which was included in the deluxe edition of Carey’s 2014 album "Me. I Am Mariah... The Elusive Chanteuse."
May 30, 2014: "Think Like a Man Too" Soundtrack Announcement
On May 30, 2014, it was announced that Mary J. Blige would contribute new music to the "Think Like a Man Too" soundtrack, including the single "Suitcase." The soundtrack, "Think Like a Man Too (Music from and Inspired by the Film)," was released on June 17 on Epic Records.
June 2, 2014: "Stay with Me" Rework Release
Mary J. Blige collaborated with English musician Sam Smith, releasing a reworked version of Smith's "Stay with Me" on June 2, 2014, along with a live visual.
July 9, 2014: Move to London for New Album
After her performance at the Essence Festival, Mary J. Blige announced her move to London to explore new sounds for her upcoming album on July 9, 2014.
November 24, 2014: "The London Sessions" Release and Capitol Records Signing
On November 24, 2014, Mary J. Blige released "The London Sessions," an album recorded in London with collaborations from British artists including Disclosure, Naughty Boy, Emeli Sandé, and Sam Smith. The same month, she announced her departure from Geffen and Interscope and her new signing with Capitol Records.
December 2015: Portrayal of Evillene in "The Wiz Live!"
Mary J. Blige took on the role of Evillene, the Wicked Witch of the West, in NBC's live production of "The Wiz Live!" in December 2015.
July 2016: Filing for Divorce
In July 2016, citing "irreconcilable differences," Mary J. Blige filed for divorce from Martin "Kendu" Isaacs.
August 2016: Recording of "The View" Theme Song
In August 2016, Mary J. Blige was recruited to perform "World's Gone Crazy," the new theme song for the twentieth season of the ABC Daytime talk show "The View." The song was written by Diane Warren, and a music video featuring Blige and the show's co-hosts was also filmed.
September 9, 2016: Appearance and Performance on "The View"
On September 9, 2016, Mary J. Blige appeared on the premiere week of the twentieth season of "The View" alongside Maxwell to discuss their joint tour and the show's new theme song, "World's Gone Crazy," which Blige performed.
September 30, 2016: Premiere of "The 411" and Interview with Hillary Clinton
On September 30, 2016, Mary J. Blige premiered her new show, "The 411," on Apple Music. The debut episode featured an interview with Hillary Clinton, with a trailer showing Blige singing a cover of Bruce Springsteen's "American Skin" to Clinton. The interview sparked mixed reactions on social media.
October 2016: Guest Appearance on "How to Get Away with Murder"
In October 2016, Mary J. Blige made a guest appearance on the ABC legal drama "How to Get Away with Murder." She played an old acquaintance of Annalise Keating, the show's protagonist played by Viola Davis.
October 2016: Release of "Thick of It" and "U + Me (Love Lesson)"
In October 2016, following her public divorce from Kendu Issacs, Mary J. Blige released two new songs: "Thick of It" and "U + Me (Love Lesson)."
2016: Release of "Nina" Biopic
The Nina Simone biopic, from which Mary J. Blige withdrew, was ultimately released in 2016 with Zoe Saldana starring as Simone.
April 28, 2017: Release of "Strength of a Woman" Album
On April 28, 2017, Mary J. Blige released her thirteenth studio album, "Strength of a Woman." The album, which peaked at number three on the Billboard 200, was inspired by her highly publicized divorce from Kendu Issacs.
2017: "Mudbound" and Critical Acclaim
In 2017, Mary J. Blige starred in the period drama film "Mudbound," where she received critical acclaim for her role as Florence Jackson. Her performance led to nominations for a Golden Globe Award, Critics' Choice Movie Award, Screen Actors Guild Award, and Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
2017: Breakthrough Performance in "Mudbound"
In 2017, Mary J. Blige delivered a powerful and critically acclaimed performance as Florence Jackson in the film "Mudbound." Her performance earned her numerous accolades, including nominations for both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe Award.
2017: Oscar and Golden Globe Nomination for "Mudbound"
In 2017, Mary J. Blige received a milestone achievement with her first Academy Award nomination for her supporting role in the film "Mudbound." This nomination marked a significant moment in her career, solidifying her talent and impact on the film industry.
2017: "Be Without You" Named Most Successful R&B/Hip-Hop Song
In 2017, Billboard magazine bestowed a remarkable honor upon Mary J. Blige, naming her 2006 song "Be Without You" as the most successful R&B/Hip-Hop song of all time. This recognition cemented the song's place in music history.
June 21, 2018: Finalization of Divorce
Mary J. Blige's divorce from Martin "Kendu" Isaacs was finalized on June 21, 2018.
July 12, 2018: Release of "Only Love" Single
Following her departure from Capitol Records, Mary J. Blige released the single "Only Love" under Republic Records on July 12, 2018.
2018: Voice Acting and Casting Announcement
Mary J. Blige provided her voice for the character Irene in the animated film "Sherlock Gnomes." Additionally, it was announced that she had been cast as Sherry Elliot in the upcoming season of the television series "Scream."
2018: Breakthrough Performance Award
Mary J. Blige's exceptional performance in the film "Mudbound" earned her the Breakthrough Performance Award at the prestigious 2018 Palm Springs International Film Festival.
April 16, 2019: Announcement of "The Royalty Tour" with Nas
On April 16, 2019, Mary J. Blige announced a joint North American summer tour with rapper Nas titled "The Royalty Tour."
July 8, 2019: Premiere of "Scream: Resurrection"
On July 8, 2019, the third season of the slasher television series "Scream," titled "Scream: Resurrection," premiered on VH1. Mary J. Blige played the role of Sherry Elliot in the series.
2019: Formation of Blue Butterfly Productions
Recognizing her entrepreneurial spirit, Mary J. Blige established Blue Butterfly Productions, a film and television production label, in 2019.
2019: Starring Role in Netflix's "The Umbrella Academy"
In 2019, Mary J. Blige expanded her acting repertoire with a starring role as Cha-Cha in the first season of Netflix's hit series "The Umbrella Academy." This marked another successful venture into the world of television, showcasing her ability to captivate audiences in a new genre.
2019: Achieving Sobriety
By 2019, Mary J. Blige had achieved sobriety from drug and alcohol addiction, marking a significant personal milestone.
2020: Appearances in "Trolls World Tour" and "Body Cam"
In 2020, Mary J. Blige lent her talent to both the animated film "Trolls World Tour" and the thriller "Body Cam." These diverse roles showcased her ability to connect with audiences across different genres and formats.
2020: Continued Acclaim for Albums
In a testament to their enduring impact, both "What's the 411?" and "My Life" by Mary J. Blige were featured in an updated version of Rolling Stone magazine's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list in 2020. These albums were placed at 271 and 126, respectively.
2020: Co-founding of Sister Love Jewelry Line
In late 2020, Mary J. Blige and Simone Johnson-Smith, a cancer survivor and wife of rapper LL Cool J, came together to co-found Sister Love, a jewelry line for women.
2020: Use of "Work That" by Kamala Harris
Kamala Harris, the first Black and South Asian female Vice President-elect on a major party, made a powerful statement by incorporating Mary J. Blige's song "Work That" into significant events in 2020. These events included her entrance at the 2020 Democratic National Convention, various campaign gatherings (including her own presidential bid), and her momentous victory speech.
2020: Voice Acting in "Trolls World Tour"
Mary J. Blige lent her voice to the character Queen Essence in the animated musical film "Trolls World Tour."
June 2021: Release of "My Life" Documentary
In June 2021, Mary J. Blige celebrated the 25th anniversary of her album "My Life" with the release of a documentary titled "Mary J. Blige's My Life." Directed by Vanessa Roth, the documentary was released on Amazon Studios.
August 13, 2021: Release of "Respect"
The biographical drama film "Respect," about the life and career of Aretha Franklin, was released in theaters on August 13, 2021. Mary J. Blige portrayed the role of singer Dinah Washington in the film.
December 2021: Formation of Mary Jane Productions and Release of New Singles
In December 2021, Mary J. Blige announced the launch of her own record label, Mary Jane Productions, in partnership with 300 Entertainment. She also released two new singles: "Good Morning Gorgeous" and "Amazing" featuring DJ Khaled.
2021: Roles in "The Violent Heart" and "Respect"
In 2021, Mary J. Blige delivered memorable performances in both "The Violent Heart" and "Respect." Her role as Dinah Washington in the Aretha Franklin biopic, "Respect," showcased her ability to embody iconic figures in music history.
January 2022: Release of "Rent Money" Single
In January 2022, Mary J. Blige released "Rent Money," a single featuring rapper Dave East, from her upcoming album "Good Morning Gorgeous."
February 13, 2022: Super Bowl LVI Halftime Performance
On February 13, 2022, Mary J. Blige performed at the Super Bowl LVI halftime show alongside Dr. Dre, Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg, 50 Cent, and Anderson .Paak.
February 2022: Public Statement About Being Childfree
In February 2022, Mary J. Blige gave an interview with E! News in which she proclaimed her decision to live a childfree life.
May 2022: TIME 100 Most Influential People
In May 2022, Mary J. Blige was featured on TIME magazine's list of the 100 most influential people in the world.
September 2022: Primetime Emmy Award Win for Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show
Mary J. Blige won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety Special (Live) in September 2022 for her performance in the Super Bowl LVI halftime show.
December 16, 2022: First-Look Deal with BET and Premiere of "The Wine Down with Mary J. Blige"
Blue Butterfly Productions, Mary J. Blige's film and television production company, secured a first-look deal with BET for scripted and unscripted content on December 16, 2022. The first project under this partnership was Blige's talk show, "The Wine Down with Mary J. Blige," which premiered in early 2023.
February 2023: Mariah Carey's "It's a Wrap" Remix Release
In February 2023, Mariah Carey released an EP for her song "It's a Wrap" which included a remix of the track by Mary J. Blige.
August 2023: Signing of WanMor to Mary Jane Productions
Mary J. Blige signed the Boyz II Men affiliate group WanMor to her production company, Mary Jane Productions, in August 2023.
October 2023: Release of "A Mary Christmas" Deluxe Version
In October 2023, Mary J. Blige released a deluxe version of her album "A Mary Christmas," featuring four new tracks.
October 27, 2023: Release of "Still Believe In Love" Single
On October 27, 2023, Mary J. Blige released "Still Believe In Love," a single featuring rapper Vado.
2023: Casting in "Rob Peace"
Mary J. Blige was cast in the drama film "Rob Peace," an adaptation of the book "The Short and Tragic Life of Robert Peace" written and directed by Chiwetel Ejiofor.
2023: Premiere of "The Wine Down with Mary J. Blige"
Mary J. Blige's talk show, "The Wine Down with Mary J. Blige," premiered on BET in early 2023 as part of her production company's deal with the network.
2023: Ranked Among Rolling Stone's Greatest Singers
Rolling Stone magazine recognized Mary J. Blige's exceptional vocal talent in 2023, ranking her as the 25th greatest singer of all time. This prestigious ranking solidified her place among the most celebrated vocalists in music history.
May 2024: Signing of Vado to Beautiful Life Productions
New York rapper Vado was signed to Mary J. Blige's independent record label, Beautiful Life Productions, in May 2024.
2024: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In a testament to her lasting impact on the music world, Mary J. Blige was chosen for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2024. This honor recognized her significant contributions to the world of music and her enduring legacy.