The iconic Queen of Hip Hop Soul, Mary J. Blige, is set to be honored with the prestigious Entertainment Icon Honor at the upcoming 2024 Urban One Honors.
The highly anticipated event, titled “Urban One Honors: Best in Black,” is scheduled to premiere on February 25 at 8/7c on TV One, simultaneously simulcasting on Cleo TV.
Mary J. Blige, a multi-talented artist, has earned this distinguished recognition through a career that spans over three decades, marked by numerous accomplishments.
The Grammy and Emmy Award-winning singer has released eight multi-platinum albums and boasts an impressive nine Grammy Awards, with an astounding 32 nominations. Her achievements also include an Emmy award, two Academy Award nominations, two Golden Globe nominations, and a SAG nomination.
“Urban One is thrilled to honor the incomparable Mary J. Blige as our 2024 Entertainment Icon. Mary’s immeasurable talent and award-winning music has shaped our culture and has had a profound impact on artists and music across all genres, but most notably the elevation of female artists in both R&B and Hip Hop across generations. She fully personifies the ‘Best in Black’ theme of this year’s Urban One Honors,” remarked Michelle L. Rice, President of TV One and CLEO TV.
Often referred to as the “Queen of R&B,” Mary J. Blige has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her debut album in 1992, “What’s the 411?,” showcased her unique fusion of hip-hop, soul, and transparent lyrics. The album featured two No. 1 R&B singles, “You Remind Me” and “Real Love.”
Blige continued to redefine the R&B landscape with her emotionally charged second album, “My Life,” released in 1994.
Throughout her career, she has produced chart-topping hits like “Be Without You,” “No More Drama,” and “Family Affair,” solidifying her as a dominant force in the music industry. With 15 studio albums, she has demonstrated remarkable versatility.
Beyond her musical prowess, Mary J. Blige has made significant contributions to film and television. Her notable projects include roles in “Mudbound,” “The Umbrella Academy,” “Respect,” and “Power Book II: Ghost.”
Blige’s Entertainment Icon Honor adds her to an esteemed list of Urban One Honors recipients, including Dionne Warwick, Lifetime Achievement Honoree; Chlöe, Generation Next Honoree; Frankie Beverly, Living Legend; and Donald Lawrence, recognized for his Inspirational Impact.
This recognition further solidifies Mary J. Blige’s status as an influential figure and trailblazer in the entertainment industry.
