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Mary J Blige is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist. She has been affectionately referred to as the "Queen of Hip Hop Soul" since the beginning of her career in the early 1990s. Blige has won numerous awards, including nine Grammy Awards, and has sold over 80 million records worldwide. Her music is a fusion of R&B, hip-hop, soul, and pop, and she has been credited with bringing soulful melodies and hooks to hip-hop. Blige was born on January 11, 1971, in The Bronx, New York. She grew up in poverty and faced several challenges throughout her childhood. Her parents divorced when she was a child, and she lived with her mother in the Schlobohm Houses, a public housing project in Yonkers, New York. Blige turned to music as a way to cope with her struggles, and began singing in her local church and school choir. In 1991, Blige was discovered by Uptown Records executive Andre Harrell. She initially provided background vocals for several artists on the Uptown label, including Father MC, but her talent quickly caught the attention of Harrell, who signed her as a solo artist. Blige's debut album, "What's the 411?" (1992), was an instant success, and she became one of the most sought-after artists in the music industry. The album sold over three million copies and spawned several hits, including "Real Love," "You Remind Me," and "Love No Limit." Blige's music has always been deeply personal and introspective. She has been open about her struggles with addiction, domestic violence, and heartbreak, and her lyrics often reflect those experiences. Her second album, "My Life" (1994), was a critical and commercial success, and is considered a classic in the R&B genre. The album explores themes of love, loss, and pain, and the title track has been praised for its raw vulnerability. Blige's later albums have continued to showcase her versatility as an artist. She has collaborated with several hip-hop and R&B legends, including Jay-Z, Busta Rhymes, and Usher, and has experimented with different sounds and styles. Her sixth album, "The Breakthrough" (2005), marked a return to her soulful roots and earned her three Grammy Awards, including Best R&B Album. In addition to her music career, Blige has also made a name for herself in the acting world. She has appeared in several films and television shows, including "Mudbound" (2017), which earned her critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Blige is also a committed philanthropist, and has used her platform to raise awareness for several charities and causes. She has been a longtime supporter of the American Foundation for AIDS Research and the FFAWN Foundation, which aims to empower young women through education and mentoring. In conclusion, Mary J Blige is a legendary artist who has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her powerful voice, honest lyrics, and soulful melodies have inspired generations of fans and artists alike. Blige's music will undoubtedly continue to be celebrated for years to come, and her influence on the R&B and hip-hop genres will be felt for generations.