Mary Jane Blige aka Mary biography

Mary J. Blige is an award winning American singer and songwriter.

Mary J Blige grew up in the Schlobam housing projects in Yonkers, NY. At age 5, she was molested; an event that shaped her rocky teenage years. She dropped out of high school to work as a hairstylist in her friend's apartment. After recording a cover of Anita Baker's "Rapture" in a local mall, her demo made its way to the CEO of Uptown Records. She was soon signed as their youngest and only female artist.

The first few years of her career consisted of singing backup for other artists on her label. In 1992, her debut album "What's the 411?" The album was a smash success with both listeners and critics. During this time, Mary J. became involved with Jodeci frontman, Cedric Hailey, better known as K-Ci. The relationship lasted six very long and rocky years. The struggle with her boyfriend poured out of Mary J. in both her music and her alcohol and drug addictions.</br>

Mary J. has gone on to record 8 amazing albums which have won countless awards. She is now married to record industry executive and her manager Martin Kendu Isaacs, who she credits for her sobriety.