Queen of Hip-Hop Soul Mary J. Blige's Upkeep Struggle Awakens 'The Strength of a Woman'

When life throws lemons at you, some people make lemonade. But for Mary J. Blige, the queen of hip-hop soul, those lemons became the driving force behind her powerful album. Strength of a woman. In this exclusive behind-the-scenes look, we delve into the emotional journey that led to the creation of this iconic music and the birth of the Strength of a Woman Festival & Summit.

Mary J. Blige's divorce from her former manager Kendu Isaacs was anything but amicable. As part of the divorce settlement, she had to pay child support – a daily reminder of her failed marriage. But instead of wallowing in despair, she channeled her frustration into her art.

Blige's 2017 LP Strength of a Woman wasn't just an album; it was their battle cry. Each track reflected her resilience, vulnerability and determination. The title itself spoke volumes – she was determined to find strength even in her darkest moments.

The album was well received by women worldwide. Blige's soulful voice conveyed messages of self-love, healing and empowerment. Songs like “Thick of It” and “Set Me Free” became anthems for those who weather their own storms. Blige's raw honesty touched listeners and reminded them that they too could overcome adversity.

But Blige didn't stop there. She turned her pain into movement. The Strength of a Woman Festival & Summit was born – an annual celebration of resilience, sisterhood and empowerment. The festival takes place in New York City and brings together women from all walks of life. From musical performances to panel discussions, it is a safe place for healing and growth.

Blige, a Yonkers native, felt compelled to bring the festival home. New York needed this – an embrace of its culture. The city she grew up in, surrounded by strong women experiencing trials and triumphs, was the perfect backdrop. And the festival thrived, attracting visitors from all over the world.

As if her influence wasn't already huge, Mary J. Blige was recently inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Their journey from subsistence to global empowerment is a testament to their strength and resilience.

Mary J. Blige's child support dispute may have “upset” her, but it also lit a fire inside her. “Strength of a Woman” isn’t just an album – it’s a movement. And as the festival continues to grow, Blige's legacy as a beacon of strength shines brighter than ever.