Celebrity Coverage
Mary J. Blige’s ‘Mary’ is a timeless classic that blends the past with the present – Essence
Mary J. Blige, deluxe edition of “Mary”, 1999.
For nearly 4 a long time, Mary J. Blige has crafted generational songs that have been the soundtrack to our lives. While lots of her albums have been standouts, her fourth studio album—released on August 17, 1999—was a defining moment in her profession, each as a personal statement of growth and a reflection of the evolving landscape of R&B. With this album, Blige moved away from the heavy hip-hop influences that characterised her earlier work, embracing a more mature and classic R&B sound. This shift not only showcased her versatility as an artist, but in addition placed her at the forefront of the entertainment industry.
The 14-track LP debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, selling 239,000 copies in its first week—a testament to Blige’s immense popularity and the expectations surrounding her growth as an artist. The album spent 57 weeks on the chart, and its success was sparked by five singles, including “Give Me You” and “Your Child,” leading critics and fans alike to praise the album for its depth and authenticity.
Babyface, Chucky Thompson, Diane Warren and legendary duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis were all credited with production and songwriting credits. These collaborators helped Blige create an album that was each timeless and contemporary, rooted in the wealthy traditions of ’70s R&B but with a modern edge. This mix of old and latest is perhaps most evident in Blige’s collaboration with Elton John on “Deep Inside,” where she reinterprets his 1973 classic “Bennie And The Jets” to explore the complexities of fame and the emotional toll it takes on personal relationships.
was also praised for its guest appearances, which added depth and texture to the album. The presence of icons like Aretha Franklin, along with contributions from artists like Jadakiss and K-Ci and JoJo, gave the album the perfect sonic balance. Additionally, Blige worked with cultural mainstays like Eric Clapton and George Michael; “I’m in Love,” “As,” and “Let No Man Put Asunder” are covers of songs originally performed by The Gap Band, Stevie Wonder, and First Choice, respectively.
One of the most vital songs on the album “All I can say,” written by Lauryn Hill, captures the essence of . With its soulful, introspective lyrics and Hill’s influence, the song set the tone for an album that was as much about self-discovery because it was musical exploration.
In retrospect, the album is a milestone in Mary J. Blige’s discography. It was greater than just a collection of songs; it was a statement of artistic intent and private growth. Taking a more vulnerable, introspective approach, Blige redefined her sound and solidified her legacy as the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul. As the latest millennium dawned, it was proof that Blige was not only a product of her era, but a timeless artist whose influence would endure for years to come back.
Celebrity Coverage
ICYMI: Jourdan Dunn’s Iconic Pixie Hairstyle and More – Essence
Dave Bennett/Getty Images
Last week, the celebs gave us a glimpse of their first moments of autumn beauty. From Beetlejuice style bangs from pixie cuts to 2-toned smokey eyes, it’s clear that this season’s hair and makeup is all about sophisticated punk. That means kitten cuts and a move away from daring pink are all in.
Jourdan Dunn closed out LFW’s fortieth anniversary with cropped bangs that were sculpted Balmain hair products and luscious lashes on the Icons Party. Not far behind, Jodie Turner-Smith and Gabrielle Union-Wade, each sporting glazed lips, attended the Burberry show in grunge and glitter eyeshadow respectively. Tracee Ellis Ross, then again, went for a festive vibe with red lipstick, deep mauve eyeshadow and a touch of blush.
For FKA Twigs, the “Kitty Kat” hairdo was the primary in a series of Eusexua wigs — a mood Kelela captured together with her cropped bob Okuzawa’s Kabuto on set with ESSENCE. Meanwhile, Doechii had her eyebrows removed, but compensated with an additional-long, teased ponytail, secured with an equally long bow. To end the week, Sabrina Elba wore barrel-shaped curls in a bob — bringing a summer favorite to fall.
In case you missed it, take a look at the 13 best celebrity beauty moments of the week.
Celebrity Coverage
A Fall Hairstyle Rihanna Approves: Medium-Length Curls – Essence
Neil Mockford/GC Images
BobsLobs and pixie cuts, like Rihanna’s iconic short black bob, have been among the most beloved hair trends this summer. While these big cuts have been flooding our feeds all season long, this week the Fenty Hair founder introduced mid-length curls just days before fall.
Rihanna didn’t take the front row at London Fashion Week to have a good time the opening of Fenty Hair’s recent home in Selfridges. Her loose waves were parted to the perimeters, with the left half tucked behind her ear, revealing a chandelier-shaped earring. On the opposite side, the waves sat above her breasts — accentuated by custom Jacquemus robe— and rocked manicure butter.
To achieve this look, Fenty Hair Global Hair Stylist Ursula Stephen she washed her hair with shampoo and conditioner before preparing 5 in 1 heat protection type. She then curled the sections with a medium-diameter iron, pinning each section because the curls cooled. After resting, Stephen combed the curls and backcombed the roots for added volume, securing his curls with edge control.
The tycoon matched her hair together with her cherry-coloured makeup, which was highlighted Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix Lipstick in “Blaz’d Donut” and Snap Shadows Eyeshadow Palette in “True Neutrals”—turning this look into Rihanna’s first fall trend.
Celebrity Coverage
Best New Music of the Week: GloRilla, Monaleo, Shenseea & More – Essence
Happy Friday, folks. As summer officially involves an end, let’s enjoy its final days with some great music from some of the most talented artists in entertainment.
Today, GloRilla drops “Hollon,” the first single from her highly anticipated debut album. Monaleo and Kaliii team up on recent track “Flush Em,” iconic MC Lyte returns after a decade along with his 1 Of 1 album, and TDE’s ScHoolboy Q drops the video for “THANK GOD 4 ME” with . Our roundup also includes music from Lecrae, Future, Rich Homie Quan, and more.
Check out today’s list of recent releases below.
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