How Mary J. Blige and Her Famous Friends Found Freedom: 2024 'Strength of a Woman' Summit Recap
By Isoul H. Harris | May 17, 2024
Mary J.Blige during her “Girl Talk with MJB” panel at Mary J. Blige and Pepsi’s third annual Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit, in partnership with Live Nation Urban and MVD Inc. on Saturday, May 11, 2024 in New York City. (Photo Credit: Sterlingpics for Mary J. Blige for Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit)
Mary J. Blige’s "Strength of a Woman Summit" never disappoints. Initially launched in 2022 in Atlanta, the third year was a homecoming for Blige. Produced in partnership with Pepsi, Live Nation Urban, and MVD Inc., the high-octane, three-day event over Mother’s Day Weekend was chock-full of star power with heavyweights such as Tiffany Haddish, Jill Scott, 50 Cent, Fat Joe, Muni Long, Marsai Martin, Method Man, Larenz Tate, Robert Glasper, Funk Flex, Misa Hylton, Bevy Smith, and more, it was the “Girl Talk With MJB” that epitomized the mission of the festivities.
Oscar-nominated actress Taraji P. Henson, actress-director-producer Tasha Smith, and creator and host of The IRL Podcast Angie Martinez joined MJB, a recent Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, on what was less of a panel and more like an exclusive glimpse into the group chat of some of the most influential Black women in entertainment.
Mary J. Blige’s "Strength of a Woman Summit" never disappoints. Initially launched in 2022 in Atlanta, the third year was a homecoming for Blige. Produced in partnership with Pepsi, Live Nation Urban, and MVD Inc., the high-octane, three-day event over Mother’s Day Weekend was chock-full of star power with heavyweights such as Tiffany Haddish, Jill Scott, 50 Cent, Fat Joe, Muni Long, Marsai Martin, Method Man, Larenz Tate, Robert Glasper, Funk Flex, Misa Hylton, Bevy Smith, and more, it was the “Girl Talk With MJB” that epitomized the mission of the festivities.
Oscar-nominated actress Taraji P. Henson, actress-director-producer Tasha Smith, and creator and host of The IRL Podcast Angie Martinez joined MJB, a recent Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, on what was less of a panel and more like an exclusive glimpse into the group chat of some of the most influential Black women in entertainment.
(L-R) Mary J.Blige, Radio Icon, Creator and Host of Angie Martinez IRL (In Real Life) Angie Martinez, Actress/Director Tasha Smith and Actress Taraji P. Henson pose for a photo after their “Girl Talk with MJB” panel at Mary J. Blige and Pepsi’s third annual Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit, in partnership with Live Nation Urban and MVD Inc. on Saturday, May 11, 2024 in New York City. (Photo Credit: Sterlingpics for Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit)
The conversation delved into the power of vulnerability, with MJB confessing, “I used to be in interviews, zooted and high out of my mind, telling of my pain. It was my assignment to share what was happening in my life with people. You know what you are supposed to know. I would be dead if I shared my entire life with you.”
MJB’s wisdom and growth are hardwon. I remember interviewing MJB early in my career. She was then on the precipice of the change that we are now witnessing the fruits of.
The conversation delved into the power of vulnerability, with MJB confessing, “I used to be in interviews, zooted and high out of my mind, telling of my pain. It was my assignment to share what was happening in my life with people. You know what you are supposed to know. I would be dead if I shared my entire life with you.”
MJB’s wisdom and growth are hardwon. I remember interviewing MJB early in my career. She was then on the precipice of the change that we are now witnessing the fruits of.
It was in September 2005 that New York, the birthplace of Hip-Hop, began to feel its burgeoning irrelevance. Jim Jones was popping with Harlem: Diary of a Summer, but Young Jeezy’s Let’s Get It: Thug Motivation 101 and Paul Wall’s The People’s Champ took large bites from The Big Apple’s dominance.
However, on a sweltering hot, extended summer day, I met the Queen of Hip Hop Soul, Mary J. Blige, in New York at Sony Studios, where she was working on music that would become her seventh studio album, The Breakthrough—which also would have described our conversation. It was beyond an interview—we shared our personal stories, and we somehow connected. She stopped talking at one point, looked me in the eyes, and said: “You get it, huh?"
(L-R) Mary J.Blige, Radio Icon, Creator and Host of Angie Martinez IRL (In Real Life) Angie Martinez, Actress/Director Tasha Smith and Actress Taraji P. Henson are all smiles at their “Girl Talk with MJB” panel at Mary J. Blige and Pepsi’s third annual Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit, in partnership with Live Nation Urban and MVD Inc. on Saturday, May 11, 2024 in New York City. (Photo Credit: Wendy Ngala for Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit)
I listened intently as she delved deeply into her past—from substance abuse to childhood molestation. Yet, even then, her concern wasn’t for herself but for her fans. “When I listen to the My Life album now, it hurts my stomach,” she admitted. “I created a fan base with my misery, and I realized that I could not kill off a generation of people. It was about saving myself to save people. I was not going to watch a group of women die because I wanted to die."
Fast-forward twenty years to the Strength of a Woman Summit, and it’s clear that MJB has stayed true to her word. Not only has she triumphed over her struggles, but she’s also created a platform to empower and uplift countless others. The “Girl Talk With MJB” panel was a testament to this commitment.
With Angie Martinez as moderator, the conversation between MJB, Taraji P. Henson, and Tasha Smith unfolded seamlessly. Each woman, a powerhouse in her own right, shared personal stories and wisdom gleaned from their unique journeys. Topics ranged from navigating love and relationships to overcoming career obstacles and embracing personal growth.
I listened intently as she delved deeply into her past—from substance abuse to childhood molestation. Yet, even then, her concern wasn’t for herself but for her fans. “When I listen to the My Life album now, it hurts my stomach,” she admitted. “I created a fan base with my misery, and I realized that I could not kill off a generation of people. It was about saving myself to save people. I was not going to watch a group of women die because I wanted to die."
Fast-forward twenty years to the Strength of a Woman Summit, and it’s clear that MJB has stayed true to her word. Not only has she triumphed over her struggles, but she’s also created a platform to empower and uplift countless others. The “Girl Talk With MJB” panel was a testament to this commitment.
With Angie Martinez as moderator, the conversation between MJB, Taraji P. Henson, and Tasha Smith unfolded seamlessly. Each woman, a powerhouse in her own right, shared personal stories and wisdom gleaned from their unique journeys. Topics ranged from navigating love and relationships to overcoming career obstacles and embracing personal growth.
(L-R) Celebrity hairstylist Kim Kimble, TV and Radio host Bevy Smith, CEO/Founder of Fashion Bomb Daily Claire Sulmers and founder of The Cut Life Tahira Wright pose for a photo before their panel, “We Set The Trends: Developing Your Personal Style,” at Mary J. Blige and Pepsi’s third annual Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit, in partnership with Live Nation Urban and MVD Inc. on Saturday, May 11, 2024 in New York City. (Photo Credit: Wendy Ngala for Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit)
One of the most poignant moments came from Oscar-nominated actress Taraji P. Henson, who passionately shared, “When I opened my mouth and spoke not just for myself and women. But for all Black women in the industry. Guess where it got me. on the cover of Time Magazine. I was scared to say it because of the possible repercussions. When your voice shakes, you better speak up. God put it on your heart, That’s why your voice is shaking. And as long as you have God on your side, there is nothing to fear.”
Henson then brought it full circle, bringing MJB into her sudden sermon. “Mary’s entire career has shown you that there is strength in vulnerability. "Now she is bringing you Strength of A Woman, an entire festival, a summit that started in Atlanta, and this year she brought it home!” Taraji’s words were met with deafening cheers from the sea of Black and brown women in the audience.
“Getting to bring this home to NYC is something I won’t forget,” said MJB. Thank you to everyone who came out, my family who participated, and everyone involved, including my partners at Pepsi, who made this dream come to life.”
As Kenny Burns has told us for years, the dream is real.
One of the most poignant moments came from Oscar-nominated actress Taraji P. Henson, who passionately shared, “When I opened my mouth and spoke not just for myself and women. But for all Black women in the industry. Guess where it got me. on the cover of Time Magazine. I was scared to say it because of the possible repercussions. When your voice shakes, you better speak up. God put it on your heart, That’s why your voice is shaking. And as long as you have God on your side, there is nothing to fear.”
Henson then brought it full circle, bringing MJB into her sudden sermon. “Mary’s entire career has shown you that there is strength in vulnerability. "Now she is bringing you Strength of A Woman, an entire festival, a summit that started in Atlanta, and this year she brought it home!” Taraji’s words were met with deafening cheers from the sea of Black and brown women in the audience.
“Getting to bring this home to NYC is something I won’t forget,” said MJB. Thank you to everyone who came out, my family who participated, and everyone involved, including my partners at Pepsi, who made this dream come to life.”
As Kenny Burns has told us for years, the dream is real.
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What made this panel truly special was its authenticity. These women weren’t afraid to be vulnerable, openly discussing their heartbreak, self-doubt, and societal pressures. Their honesty created a haven for the audience to reflect on their experiences and find solace in shared struggles.
Tasha Smith, known for her no-nonsense approach, chimed in with a word of caution, “You cannot cast your pearls before swine. What does swine do? Eat it. Spit it out. And trample all over it. That’s why some people who you shared your pearls with have talked about your ass. Everybody can’t know. Period.”
The undeniable bond between these women was the highlight of “GirlTalk.” Their love, respect, and genuine camaraderie spoke volumes about the importance of friendship and support. The laughter shared in inside jokes and nostalgic moments was a testament to the resilience and strength that arise from a solid support system.
Tasha Smith, known for her no-nonsense approach, chimed in with a word of caution, “You cannot cast your pearls before swine. What does swine do? Eat it. Spit it out. And trample all over it. That’s why some people who you shared your pearls with have talked about your ass. Everybody can’t know. Period.”
The undeniable bond between these women was the highlight of “GirlTalk.” Their love, respect, and genuine camaraderie spoke volumes about the importance of friendship and support. The laughter shared in inside jokes and nostalgic moments was a testament to the resilience and strength that arise from a solid support system.
Mary J. Blige takes the stage for a packed audience at the Barclays Center at Mary J. Blige and Pepsi’s third annual Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit, in partnership with Live Nation Urban and MVD Inc. on Saturday, May 11, 2024 in New York City. (Photo Credit: Ellen Qbertplaya for Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit)
The weekend also included a concert at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center featuring performances by 50 Cent, Jill Scott, Fat Joe, Jadakiss, Lola Brooke, Honey Bxby, Funk Flex, and, of course, headlined by MJB, who gave her fans a parade of platinum hits, designer costumes, and the exclusive debut of “The Mary Boot,” a beautiful, sculptural accessory created in collaboration with luxury shoe brand Guiseppe Zanotti based on MJB’s longtime love for over-the-top over-the-knee boots.
The weekend also included a concert at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center featuring performances by 50 Cent, Jill Scott, Fat Joe, Jadakiss, Lola Brooke, Honey Bxby, Funk Flex, and, of course, headlined by MJB, who gave her fans a parade of platinum hits, designer costumes, and the exclusive debut of “The Mary Boot,” a beautiful, sculptural accessory created in collaboration with luxury shoe brand Guiseppe Zanotti based on MJB’s longtime love for over-the-top over-the-knee boots.
“Statement boots have long been associated as a signature of Mary’s style, and through this collaboration, using striking and innovative design, fine materials, and attention to detail, [we] have come together to make the must-have style of the season,” said a representative from the Italian-brand of the $1295 boot, which went on sale May 13 and sold out within hours, proving not only Mary’s status as a style icon but also the economic power of the Black community. By 2030, Black people will spend approximately $70 billion on fashion, which is only a fraction of the nearly $500 billion the community will spend, according to the superpower consulting agency Mckinsey & Co. “Fashion brand’s ability to tailor marketing and engagement to Black consumers could be particularly fruitful,” the global firm reported.
Jadakiss surprised the audience with members of his group The Lox during his performance at the Barclays Center for Mary J. Blige and Pepsi’s third annual Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit, in partnership with Live Nation Urban and MVD Inc. on Saturday, May 11, 2024 in New York City. (Photo Credit: Ellen Qbertplaya for Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit)
This current MJB era proves her cultural and economic power. Still, Strength of a Woman reminded us of Mary’s core message: that even the most accomplished aren’t immune to hardships. “Life is very difficult, very difficult for anybody born,” said James Baldwin in an interview for Almanac in 1961. “People cannot be free until they recognize this.”
This joyous celebration of Black women’s strength, resilience, and the stealth bonds of sisterhood is evidence of MJB’s freedom. In her new world order, this bonafide multi-hyphenate now only shares the pain of her past to provide a platform for the present healing of others.
And in doing so, she is fulfilling the promise she shared with me all those years ago.
This current MJB era proves her cultural and economic power. Still, Strength of a Woman reminded us of Mary’s core message: that even the most accomplished aren’t immune to hardships. “Life is very difficult, very difficult for anybody born,” said James Baldwin in an interview for Almanac in 1961. “People cannot be free until they recognize this.”
This joyous celebration of Black women’s strength, resilience, and the stealth bonds of sisterhood is evidence of MJB’s freedom. In her new world order, this bonafide multi-hyphenate now only shares the pain of her past to provide a platform for the present healing of others.
And in doing so, she is fulfilling the promise she shared with me all those years ago.
