27 Best Mary J Blige Songs Ever

Mary J Blige is undeniably among the most iconic figures in the history of R&B music. Her raw, hearty lyrics and powerful vocals make her a darling artist among critics and fans alike. Here’s a collection of the best Mary J Blige songs of all time.

“Family Affair” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 2001

Mary J. Blige was arguably the best R&B of the 90s, and Dr. Dre ruled West Coast at the time. Interestingly, neither had a Billboard #1 pop hit until “Family Affair.” The track went on to top the Billboard Hot 100 charts for six consecutive weeks.

Mary J. Blige successfully shakes off the ghosts of her well-documented previous traumas with this song. Dr. Dre comes in handy to add some funky vibe to this track with a bouncy, stomping dance beat.

“Be Without You” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 2006

If you love R&B music of the 2000s, you’ve undoubtedly come across “Be Without You” by Mary J Blige. Billboard recently ranked the track as the most successful R&B come Hip-hop tune ever. It’s also among Blige’s most successful singles, peaking at #3 on the Billboard charts.

This tune continues to demonstrate Blige’s distinctive, soulful, and powerful vocal style while displaying all the sorrow of a sensitive diva she’s renowned for. The lyrics describe the sophistication of a woman who’s faced hardships, matured, and is still attempting to inspire and cling to love.

“Mr. Wrong” by Mary J Blige ft. Drake

Song Year: 2011

“Mr. Wrong” by Mary J. Blige is one of the most popular songs of the early 2010s. The melody is one of the strongest you’ll hear from a Mary tune. Blige released the track as the 2nd single off her 10th studio album, My Life II… The Journey Continues (Act 1).

Lyrically, this song is one that many girls will relate to. Blige talks about how she keeps being attracted to the wrong guy, despite her family’s warning against it. Toronto rapper Drake featured on the track with an impressive verse that compliments Blige’s emotional verses remarkably.

“Real Love” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 1992

“Real Love” is the 3rd single from Mary J Blige’s debut studio album, What’s the 411? The track became her inaugural Top 10 hit, peaking at #7 on the US Billboard Hot 100. It also topped the Billboard Hot R&B Songs and Rhythmic charts and received a Gold certification later that year.

Lyrically, the song borrows inspiration from the real-life experiences of female artists in the entertainment industry. Blige talks about the struggles she faces to find a genuine relationship.

“Just Fine” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 2007

“Just Fine” is the lead single from Blige’s 8th studio album, Growing Pains. At first, listen, the track seems upbeat, but if you carefully listen to the lyrics, you’ll realize it holds a deeper meaning.

Blige composed the tune during her divorce experience. The track’s message of self-love and resilience resonated with fans, particularly women facing similar struggles. It quickly became an anthem for people who have overcome adversity and a testament that they can do better independently.

“My Life” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 1994

A recurring theme throughout Mary J Blige’s career is how frequently she felt misunderstood by the media, the public, and even her partners. Beneath all the anguish, Mary reminded fans on several occasions that she’s only human.

On the title track of her 2nd studio album, My Life, Blige delivers one of her most heartfelt tracks. You’ll marvel at her remarkable talent and vocal versatility as you listen through the lyrics.

“No More Drama” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 2001

Since her 1992 debut with songs like “Real Love,” Blige’s music has provided candid accounts of her struggles. “No More Drama” is less turbulent and emotionally jarring than her previous work. The singer talks about her determination not to repeat her past mistakes.

Blige released this song as the 2nd single and title track of her 5th studio album. It’s a great listen for anybody moving on from a rocky relationship.

“Good Morning Gorgeous” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 2022

After nearly a 5-year hiatus from music, and since the release of her album, “Strength of a Woman, Mary J Blige blessed us with another jam. “Good Morning Gorgeous” is the 7th single and title track of her 14th album.

The track and album are a journey through the aftermath of her breakup. Blige dives deep into her life as a single woman, pondering on the lingering bittersweet memories of her previous relationship and newfound self-love.

“I’m the Only Woman” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 1994

Mary J Blige’s “I’m the Only Woman” is the 5th track from her 2nd studio album, My Life. The tune highlights her raw emotion and powerful vocals.

Lyrically, Blige talks of her hardships and struggles but has discovered the strength in herself and is determined to persevere. The instrumentation, with its soaring horns and driving beat, adds to the track’s energy and message of encouragement. If you’re a woman looking for a song to reassure you, this tune is a great listen.

“Mary Jane (All Night Long)” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 1994

“Mary Jane (All Night Long)” is a classic R&B track by Mary J Blige, released as the 2nd single from her debut album, What’s the 411? The song displays Blige’s powerful vocals over a funky, smooth beat. With its infectious groove and catchy hook, the track became one of her fan favorites in the 90s era.

Lyrically, the track tells the tale of a woman enjoying a night of dancing and partying with her friends. Blige also expresses her passion for music in her raw lyrics. A great listen during an evening date.

“Thick of It” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 2017

Throughout her career, Mary J Blige has never been shy to talk about her emotions. “Thick of It” is a peek into Blige’s world of heartbreak and confession.

Blige released this mid-tempo ballad as a promo single for her 13th studio album, Strength of a Woman. Lyrically, the R&B queen shares her feelings towards the divorce with her husband of 12 years, Kendu Isaacs.

“Not Gon’ Cry” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 1995

Mary J Blige released “Not Gon’ Cry” as a soundtrack to the film, Waiting to Exhale. The track is also featured on her 3rd studio album, Share My World. Written and produced by Babyface, this tune became one of Blige’s best-charting songs, peaking at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #1 on the Billboard Hot R&B singles.

The lyrics tell a sad tale of a woman who’s been hurt and betrayed in a relationship. However, she doesn’t allow the pain to define or break her. Blige’s hearty delivery and the song’s soaring hook make it a great emotional and inspiring listen.

“All That I Can Say” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 1999

“All That I Can Say” is the lead single from Mary J Blige’s 4th studio album, Mary. Composed and produced by Ms. Lauryn Hills, who also provides backing vocals, this track has a soulful symphonic sound.

In addition to enthralling her fans with a unique sound, this ballad also demonstrates her ability to deliver a more heartfelt side. So if you want to add some soul to your day, listen to this timeless track!

“Everything” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 1997

“Everything” is a soulful R&B ballad released by Mary J Blige as the 11th single from her 3rd album, Share My World. The track expresses a woman’s deep affection and commitment to her spouse and her willingness to do anything to sustain their relationship.

The restrained drums and rich piano chords give Mary a solid foundation to display her vocal range. This tune peaked at #24 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #5 on the US Hot R&B/Hip-hop charts.

“We Got Hood Love” by Mary J Blige ft. Trey Songz

Song Year: 2009

“We Got Hood Love” is a groovy R&B tune by Mary J Blige featuring fellow R&B artist Trey Songz. Blige released the tune as the last single from her 9th album, Stronger with Each Other.

The lyrics are honest and raw, highlighting the realities of relationships that face turbulent times due to external factors like societal pressures and poverty. Blige’s strong vocals pair well with Songz’s polished performance, resulting in an anthemic tune.

“Take Me as I Am” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 2005

“Take Me as I Am” is the 4th and last single from Mary J Blige’s 7th studio album, The Breakthrough. The song peaked at #3 on the US Hot R&B/Hip-hop charts.

Lyrically, this soulful tune is about the significance of being true to oneself and self-acceptance, despite judgment or criticism from others. Thanks to the slow, steady beat and Blige’s diverse vocal range, it’s a pleasure to listen.

“Share My World” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 1997

Mary J Blige released “Share My World” as the lead single and title track for her 3rd studio album. Blige, LaShawn Daniels, and Rodney Jerkins contributed to the track’s co-writing and production.

The track’s lyrics center on Blige’s desire for a genuine relationship with a special person, and she sings about her readiness to open her world to that individual. This slow, steady ballad’s message of vulnerability resonated with most of Blige’s fans, quickly becoming a staple in her concerts.

“Love Is All We Need” by Mary J Blige ft. Nas

Song Year: 1997

Mary J Blige requested Nas to provide a guest rap on the 3rd single of her 3rd album, Share My Love. The track starkly contrasted with much darker-rooted music on Blige’s previous albums.

Lyrically, this track is a reminder of the power of love and how it can bring people together and complete one’s life. Blige encourages her listeners to hold on to love, loyalty, and trust and never forget that everyone needs love.

“You Remind Me” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 1991

“You Remind Me” is the lead single from Mary J Blige’s debut album, What’s the 411? The track was a commercial success, topping the US Hot R&B/Hip-hop charts and peaking at #29 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The song has a catchy, groovy beat that makes you want to dance. The lyrics describe the difficulties of moving on to a new relationship without being haunted by one’s past experiences. Blige’s passionate vocals and honesty in the lyrics make this track a classic that still resonates with fans today.

“Seven Days” by Mary J Blige ft. George Benson

Song Year: 1997

“Seven Days” is the 7th single from Mary J Blige’s 3rd studio album, Share My World. The song gained considerable commercial success, notably peaking at #3 on the US R&B Hip-hop Airplay and #22 on the UK Singles chart.

Lyrically, the song describes the frustration of a lady with her partner’s lack of interest and affection. The singer issues an ultimatum, threatening her lover that she’ll leave if he doesn’t change his ways in a week. The track has a delightful R&B beat, and Benson’s solo guitar performance adds a touch of jazz to it.

“We Ride (I See the Future)” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 2006

“We Ride (I See the Future) is a track released by Mary J Blige as part of her 7th studio album, The Breakthrough. Upon release, the track became a top-10 hit in Italy and peaked at #20 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-hop chart.

This track borrows inspiration from Blige’s newfound joy with her then-hubby, and manager, Kendu Isaacs. Blige sings about overcoming adversity and hoping for better days. Thanks to its positive message and upbeat tempo, the tune is a great anthem for anybody enduring hard times.

“Be Happy” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 1994

“Be Happy” is the title track from Mary J Blige’s 2nd studio album, My Life. This track demonstrates Blige’s prowess in blending a soulful R&B beat with inspirational lyrics.

Blige urges listeners to ignore negativity and concentrate on the positives in their lives. Upon release, the track peaked at #29 on the Billboard Hot 100, #6 on the R&B/Hip-hop chart, and #30 on the UK Singles chart. Ever since, the song has become a fan favorite and a mainstay in Blige’s discography.

“A Night To Remember” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 2014

Mary J Blige released “A Night to Remember” as part of her first soundtrack, Think Like A Man Too. Produced by Rodney Jerkins, this track features a sample of the 1980 jam of the same name by dance group Shalamar.

Lyrically, the song tells a story of a lady who’s fed up with her stale relationship and opts to break out and spend the night enjoying herself. She wants to forget her troubles for the night. It’s a great song of empowerment and self-love, urging listeners to live the moment.

“U + Me (Love Lessons)” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 2017

U + Me (Love Lessons) is the lead single by Mary J Blige from her 13th studio album, Strength of a Woman. It’s a soulful ballad with lyrics that center around a breakup.

The track discusses Blige’s recent divorce and what she took away from it. The lyrics explore heartbreak, perseverance, and self-love as the singer accepts the end of her long-term relationship. Most of Blige’s fans find a striking correlation of this track with her previous single, “Thick of It.”

“I Can Love You” by Mary J Blige ft. Lil Kim

Song Year: 1997

With her tales of adversity and victory, Mary has long served as an inspiration for women globally. “I Can Love You,” a hit off Mary’s 3rd studio album, Share My World, featured Brooklyn-based hardcore female rap maestro Lil Kim.

The lyrics depict a battle between two ladies over a man. They both try sweet-talking their way to his heart, exhuding confidence and promises of great love. Overall, it’s an engaging track that’s fun to listen to but also inspiring, as it portrays two confident women not shying away from what their heart desires.

“Deep Inside” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 1999

“Deep Inside” is another Mary J Blige track that focuses on remaining true to oneself and pursuing genuine connections instead of materialistic things like fame and money. Mary sings about the struggles of fame and dealing with individuals who only appreciate her for her material possessions.

Mary even questions if her partner genuinely loves her for who she is or if they’re only interested in her success. Although not a huge commercial success as other tracks on the album, this tune reached #51 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Doubt” by Mary J Blige

Song Year: 2014

“Doubt” is the 2nd single by Mary J Blige from her 12th studio album, The London Sessions. The track’s lyrics address Mary’s battles with insecurity and self-doubt, especially in the face of criticism. The hook is a striking declaration about the widespread nature of these struggles and the never-ending effort to conquer them.

Blige’s powerful vocals and the eerie piano melody blend to create a soulful R&B tune that resonates with many of her fans. Upon release, “Doubt” peaked at #27 on the R&B/Hip-hop charts.

Top Mary J Blige Songs, Final Thoughts

Mary J Blige is undoubtedly one of her generation’s most influential and iconic R&B artists. With more than three decades in the music industry, she’s released numerous classic tunes that continue to resonate with audiences today.

While it’s hard to narrow her extensive discography to only a few songs, highlighted above are some of the finest Mary J Blige songs. These songs display her incredible talent and legacy.