June is Black Music Month as we continue to feature some of the greatest artists to ever grace us with their musical talents. Our artist today fits that description in every regard. Billboard magazine has ranked her as the most successful R&B female artist in the last 25 years. This is another V101.9 Black Music Month moment.

Inspired by artists such as Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight and Patti Labelle, Mary J. Blige dreamed  of one day herself being an inspiration to others. After making a recording of Anita Baker’s ‘Caught Up In the Rapture’ it ended up in the hands of the CEO of Uptown records who then would sign her to the label making Mary J. Blige the youngest and first female artist for the label.

In 1992 she would team up with Sean ‘Puffy’ Combs for work on her debut album, ‘What’s the 411.’ Released in July of that year, it was an instant success with her first two singles off the album, ‘You Remind Me’ and ‘Real Love’ both topping the charts. The album would go platinum selling over 3 million copies and becoming her most successful to date.

With the recent release of her tenth studio album, ‘My Life II’ all have debuted in the top 10. Mary J’s other accomplishments include nine Grammy Awards, four American Music Awards and total album sales of over 50 million.

Centric in celebration of Black Music Month brings you special programming every weekend in June, including Hip-Hop, R. Kelly and Soul Train. see concerts, specials and music video blocks in celebration of Black Music Month every weekend in June and only on Centric.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kAzKXfAwh48&feature=relmfu