Comments on: What Black Women Owe To Mary J. Blige

By: Seeking to no longer be lost in translation « Feminist Music Geek

Seeking to no longer be lost in translation « Feminist Music Geek — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 23:23:55 +0000

[...] boasts cameos from Mary J. Blige and Gladys Knight, two black female artists whose music has been transformative for many black women. More importantly, Taraji P. Henson is excellent as April, a night club [...]

By: Ywatchmoviesf78

Ywatchmoviesf78 — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 15:21:41 +0000

Sorry, I messed something

By: Pat

Pat — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 17:08:47 +0000

I love Mary J for so many reasons. To this day I keep no less than 4 of her cd’s in my old 6 cd player in my car. I only switch up with a little gospel, Kecia Cole n whateva old school I am feeling. Mary’s songs have always spoke to my heart during my 28 year relationship to my husband. We have gone through ups n downs n turn arounds together. What I love most about Mary is she has remained so normal throughout all of her success. She has a very rare quality about her that most people could only hope for. It allows her to sit with kings n queens and still eat barbarcue chicken wings n drink koolaid at a backyard ghetto fabulous event without feeling outta place at either. I have watched her career from day one. In the beginning she was so unsure of herself. I identified completely. Over the years she let go and ROCKED IT!! I do not have a favorite single, but if I had to choose I would have to say the My Life cd, has probably changed n saved my life so many times. Thank you for using your gift to speak to my heart time n time again<3<3<3

By: Pat

Pat — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 16:39:29 +0000

Hater

By: Sean

Sean — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 13:06:45 +0000

“What Black Women (Can) Owe to Mary J. Blige (If they received a valuable lesson in life from her songs/words)”

Yeeeeah. That title seems a bit long and too wordy.

Honestly, I get it.

She’s done a lot.
Uplifted a generation of people.
Deep peoples.

Of course if someone hasn’t listened to her,
and is a black women,
obviously, they aren’t being referenced in the “owe” part…

just another lesson in taking a sentence positively,
proportionately, and with the right amount of perspective.

“Owe” is a pretty inflammatory word when the tone is just right on it…
maybe a more politically correct phrase is “What M.J.B. has accomplished”…

But that’s just incase you don’t want to spark and provoke…
but I’m guessing you did…? Means more readers read right…?
Overall, greater good effect kinda deal…?

Anywho,
lovely article,
enlightened me to more of M.J.B.’s life and deepness,
wasn’t a big fan, but did enjoy her songs,
I’m Going Down and that duo with Method Man, deeeep, catchy. =)
Just sharing… =)

Keep writing and keep sharing the deepness por favor!

GOOOOO JAMES!

Your poety brotha-friend, (lol)

Sean

By: paintgurl40

paintgurl40 — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 19:31:34 +0000

I’ve always liked mjb, because I thought she always looked fly as hell. I never got too deep into her until i watched btm on vh1 a month ago. Now I think she’s a person I really admire, and since the new music out is pure garbage, I’m going back to the music I grew up to. She is now one of my favorites. “My Life” is my favorite song. That song brings me to tears every time!

By: FlyGirl

FlyGirl — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 19:22:14 +0000

I get what the author is trying to say. I really do. However, I’d wish he didn’t lump all black women together. I’m not a Mary J. Blige fan. Not hating, just stating! That’s not to say I didn’t buy (at the music recyclery/thrift stores) her music at one time or another. I think I have two of her CDs (“What’s The 411?” & “Mary”).

It’s just, to me, that TOO MUCH of her music is about how some man has done her wrong. How she has been a victim of one thing or another as a result of some situation and/or person or another. I’m sorry, all that sad, sad talk and negativity just doesn’t do it for me. I’ve been mostly fortunate to peep someone’s game in time enough to avoid them playing it on me. And the few times I was caught slipping, I truly didn’t want to hear someone repeat the same situation back to me albeit to a dope beat. My misery DOES NOT love company! Sorry bout it! Whenever I’ve found myself in a bad predicament I”ve always strived for the opposite end of that. I do my best to analyze my situation to figure out how I got there in the first place and then make moves to not forward my steps in that path again. I don’t put the negativity on repeat. I don’t wallow in it. I don’t chat it up with everybody. I don’t ruminate. I focus on the fix and act accordingly.

Which makes me wonder, is THAT the reason Mary J. has put out SO MANY albums talking about the SAME OLD THING. Evangelist Joyce Meyer has preached repeatedly, eloquently, heartbreakingly, and thoroughly about many of the same issues Mary J. has. However, the thing she stressed was to not dwell on the negative. Because if you do, you are doomed to repeat the actions you’ve taken to arrive at the negative predicament you’ve found yourself in before. Which may also account for her situational/personal change once she began (literally) to sing a different song about a different kind of man / outlook / mentality.

That being said, I like Mary J. Blige. I think she’s put some of her money and her time where her mouth is (most notably after she buddied up with Oprah) in that she’s worked with women and the poor to better their circumstances through her involvement in various causes/projects. That’s commendable.

Side Note:
Wonder why the author didn’t touch on her situation with Kendu??? Last I heard was that she punched him, in the face, repeatedly after getting into a verbal altercation with her and her brother at a private event of hers. A verbal altercation where she supposedly called Kendu out of his name (bitch, punk, nigga) – in public! After she supposedly did that, she supposedly “asked” him “What you gonna do?!?! Chris Brown me!?!?”. Of course, this is all speculation and rumor (if you don’t count the fan made phone video of the incident). Anyways, I think they’re divorced now.

By: FlyGirl

FlyGirl — Sun, 25 Sep 2011 18:35:20 +0000

@Social Diva

+1, Like, Thumbs Up, Favorited, ReTweet, Shared ☺

By: mshunnybee

mshunnybee — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 15:28:18 +0000

As a grown woman I don’t “owe” anyone anything. I do respect Mary’s ability to overcome the many trials and tribulations she faced as we all have. I enjoy listening to her music, but I don’t owe her for putting her story out there for everyone to see. I’d like to think that regardless of a song I’ve gotten through my life’s issues with fhe protection, grace and mercy of the Lord above. I never looked at Mary’s life in comparison to my own because all of our circumstances are different. The word “owe” in this title leads one to believe that we are indebted to Mary for herown success.

By: Kara

Kara — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 13:53:17 +0000

I love Mary, I have been dancing and singing and crying to her music since I was 18 years old.Every grown up experience I’ve been through, I had a Mary song for it. Mary has a presence that demands attention , I believe her when she sings , it’s a god gifted gut level rawness that comes from her soul.She allows herself to be vulnerable and human. She is sexy but not naked,she can be tough but a lady.I love Mary!!! Forgive the cliche but it’s something about her Mary… Often imitated , but never Duplicated!!!

By: CandiceD

CandiceD — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 04:00:05 +0000

I have been a fan since day one.

By: damidwif

damidwif — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 21:15:06 +0000

girl, me too. i STILL listen to that. isn’t that where latoya luckett got her “torn” beat from?

By: She Traces

She Traces — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 16:31:07 +0000

My favorite Mary J Blige song and album is prob ‘My Life’ it was the first one that I owned on cassette and like Biggie once said ‘I let my tape rock ’til my tape popped!’
I took that album all in, read the booklet and everything she had to say, every detail about which song was sampled and who wrote it. And I loved all the gritty and non-glamorized pictures.
For me, it was just so very personal and you got to see that she wasn’t all about glitz and glamour. She came from the streets, and wasn’t afraid to say so. She had a hard upbringing and was ‘discovered’ in a mall. Over the years, I came to idolize her but eventually around the No More Drama phase I just couldn’t relate to her music anymore. I still respect her as an artist because she allowed us to watch her evolve and captured real moments in her music- such as songs like ‘Deep Inside’ where she talks about insecurities, and how it’s hard to gauge people’s intentions around you. I love that she has reigned and remained consistent this whole time, when I got the chance to see her in concert I didn’t think she was trying to ‘keep up’ with the pop artists of today…I thought she remained was genuinenly ‘Just Mary’ in what she wore and how she carried herself and I was super-pleased by how in shape she was to keep up with her background dancers. Life and God has been good to her, and I’m glad she is still on top.
Great reminder.

By: Chanda

Chanda — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 23:35:12 +0000

Yess!!!

By: EssDot323

EssDot323 — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 20:21:09 +0000

By: Mary

Mary — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 16:10:02 +0000

I’ve always loved Love Don’t Live Here Anymore with Faith Evans.

By: Mary

Mary — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 16:08:36 +0000

Don’t understand what all the arguing is about. This is a simple article of respect, celebrating MJB’s 20 Years in the industry, and how much she has given to Black women through her experience.

By: Mary

Mary — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 16:07:16 +0000

While I understand where you are coming from, there was nothing but positive deductions in this article, therefore, your point seems a bit lost, especially since you’re so caught up in the title.

By: Sharelle

Sharelle — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 05:44:58 +0000

Excellent statement. I think that’s the point of the piece. And you have said it so directly, it’s time for change.

By: Sharelle

Sharelle — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 05:42:35 +0000

@sasha i agree with your statements.

By: Rboog

Rboog — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 04:27:32 +0000

@chanda @sani… Say that!

By: Rboog

Rboog — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 04:26:23 +0000

That’s what makes her tight. Good stuff.

By: Emmanuel Tsuneni

Emmanuel Tsuneni — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 04:05:20 +0000

The reality is her struggle was that of most women during her era. Women are coming out of those times, so I think its time to sing a new song. Not too far as the Independent mantra, but a more balanced perspective.

By: Tara

Tara — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 03:53:53 +0000

I love that song.

By: Chanda

Chanda — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:25:27 +0000

YESSS!! Likewise. How many black male entertainers and “artists,” are blasting women daily right now? “Bitches” and “hoes,” “Toot it and boot it.”

Its about time for people to recognize and embrace the positive expression that we hear.

By: Chanda

Chanda — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:21:17 +0000

The title fits to me!!!! Sometimes we need to look deeper into the words. This is writing, and writing can be written in different ways.

But everyone is entitled to their own opinions.

By: Chanda

Chanda — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:19:27 +0000

That was a great track, and a lot of us were personally touched as we related to her pain. Definitely positive expression!

By: Chanda

Chanda — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:17:02 +0000

Hmmm…. Actually people just do not understand the name of this article. No one is telling anyone to thank MJB literally and personally. What this article is showing is that MJB gave many women voices and the encouragement to live strong and move on from many different obstacles and situations in their life.

MJB paved the way for many black female artists and “so call” entertainers today! As a black woman she helped me grow and overcome. With lyrics such as “No more Pain” and “No Drama,” I have overcome many obstacles.

Black men now-a-days already have a hard time respecting black women! MAYBE WE SHOULDN’T BE SO NEGATIVE ABOUT A BLACK MAN WRITING ABOUT HOW A BLACK WOMAN HAS TOUCHED HIM AND OTHERS!!!!!!!!!!

I guess I am just tired of people pointing out the negatives in everything and being negative when someone is showing expression through words in a positive light!!!

THANK YOU AND GOODNIGHT!!

By: Social Diva

Social Diva — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 23:38:57 +0000

Thanks for acknowledging my opinion. And keep in mind the dictionary’s definition:
o·pin·ion/əˈpinyən/Noun
1. A view or judgment formed about something, not necessarily based on fact or knowledge.

I wasn’t trying to state facts. I was definitely giving my opinion. I very well know how to research the things I wish to obtain facts about. This was not one of them and as far as I know, it is not a fact that this site requires responders to state only facts. I think opinions are allowed. Thanks for the attempt to correct me, however my opinion remains, not askin for it to be respected, just something I’m entitled to every once in a while.

Thanks
MR

By: Quan Williams

Quan Williams — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 22:21:08 +0000

Very well written Golden. Being able to witness Mary J.’s growth through her music and artistry has definitely been a mainstay of ministry in my life and so many others. You captured not just the complexity but sincerity, beauty, journey and face of triumph. Good job <3

By: LGreen

LGreen — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 18:01:35 +0000

Its so hard to pin down one Mary J. song. Based on my mood today, I think work that is one of my favoring. Very positive songs.

By: TC

TC — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 16:41:17 +0000

@Social Diva, you clearly don’t have much knowledge regarding the life and times of MJB. Most who have followed her are fully aware of her reported “issues” prior to her “becoming well known” and/or “rich”, as you’ve stated. It would be wise to check facts before speaking on what someone did or didn’t do in their life, especially when you are going totally off assumption. Mary has always been open and honest about her battles. I would suggest you check out the BTM series that recently ran a few months ago on VH1. It was a very good show that documented her rise from her childhood in Yonkers NY, to where she is today. It’s obvious you haven’t seen it and maybe it would give you just a little more insight. Your opinion is respected for whatever it may be worth, but please have a few facts the next time you decide to comment.

Thanks

By: Christa

Christa — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 16:32:21 +0000

I am a big MJB fan. I’m 23 years old so I kind of grew up on her music. She always brings the real good music. I looooove “Be Happy” That’s my jam!!!!

By: sasha

sasha — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 16:17:31 +0000

ditto. She is representative of the black woman’s experience just as other black female artists are. I can respect her journey without identifying with it. Frankly put, all black women are not substance abuser and all black women do not choose piss poor men.

By: Social Diva

Social Diva — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 15:26:24 +0000

“OWE” is a strong word, not sure if anyone owe Ms. Blige. I admire her talent and her willingness to overcome drugs and bad relationships (most of which happened after she became well known). To my knowledge she wasn’t a drug user prior and managed to save her life through her songs, she did all of that AFTER she became rich.

Strong woman? Yes. But in my opinion no different than all the struggling mothers in the world. Owe? No. As a matter of fact we are continually paying for her attention in the music business and other avenues.

What I admire most about her is the foundation she started for girls and her interaction with them, now they can truly say they owe her their respect.

Just my opinion. Thanks.

-MR

By: Sharelle

Sharelle — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:50:06 +0000

and my fav cut was “Everything” from Share My World.

By: Sharelle

Sharelle — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:48:01 +0000

I love the idea of this man uplifting a Black female entertainer.

Excellent article and kudos for making the connection between Mary’s personal growth and the growth of Black women together.

Excellent.

By: Sharelle

Sharelle — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:46:26 +0000

very well stated.

By: Sharelle

Sharelle — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:44:59 +0000

ditto.

By: Valerie

Valerie — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:04:39 +0000

Well done James! I am quite proud of your heart for the important issues of women, black women in particular. Bless you. Your article has accidentally stumbled into the vestiges of internalized oppression. Certainly, having a different opinion is for the best in our society……tearing down our black icons is not! MJB I owe you my gratitude for sharing your evolving life experience. Women can be stronger and healthier because of your presence. You are the Queen!

By: Dina

Dina — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 13:05:02 +0000

@ Kelsey>>Yeeesss black women, who are fans, flock to Mary (her music and tours) the same why way our mama’s did back in the day to Aretha. I absolutely L-O-V-E Mary

By: Kelsey

Kelsey — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 12:20:27 +0000

I can’t believe some random Faith Evans fans have the gall to comment, when no one has thought about that woman since Biggie passed (realtalk). Its really a shame how they are so envious of Mary’s success. If she was so great she would be somewhere with a great career to match and back it up. If Faith Evans didn’t put the work in, why be mad at Mary? Its not her fault. Anywho, major Kudos to Mary J Blige. This woman is a musical legend in the game. Its really nice when others can give props when they are due. Mary is the Aretha Franklin of the modern era indeed.

By: lola289

lola289 — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 06:11:06 +0000

I just want to say that until “No more Drama” I hated MJB.. Seriously, I thought she was a ghetto wannabe Aretha Franklin, but one day (as an adult) I began to understand her voice and story. I think MJB is owed our respect. Not just for the good times, but the bad also. Right now Im a fan of hers, although, not a stan. I enjoy her sound more and can recognize her talent. Re-listen to her music catalog.
She Rocks! :D

By: Sani

Sani — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 05:16:06 +0000

it seems titled correctly… just takes some perspective to fully grasp the concept.

By: vanishingme

vanishingme — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 04:55:43 +0000

this is titled wrong, hence all the comments

By: Sani

Sani — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 04:54:13 +0000

i see it as a celebration of Black Female Survival… which is why Mary is so important to me as a Black Woman. I see the connection as a fitting tribute to an inspiring Black woman.

By: Sani

Sani — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 04:52:04 +0000

i feel that. similar feelings. :)

By: Tommychan

Tommychan — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 01:00:17 +0000

she almost looks like keri hilson in the pic above…:)
…

Listening to – Lace Front Wigs Are Leading Cause of Forehead Cancer in African American Women http://goo.gl/gOqSj

By: Tara

Tara — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 00:47:53 +0000

No question Faith is a better singer. She would murder Marys vocals, but Mary made the impact…

By: bougiehippie

bougiehippie — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 23:35:40 +0000

That’s what happens when you only know one type of people you’re limited in your conclusion drawing.