MJB honored at first VIBE Impact Awards

Posted by | Ray Cornelius

 “Mary is one of the names that go with Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holliday, Aretha Franklin to Whitney Houston to Barbra Streisand to Judy Garland.  She one of those girls now.” ~ Babyface

A number of A-List stars came out this weekend to pay tribute to the one and only Mary J. Blige. The pre-Grammy function was part of VIBE magazine’s first ever Impact Awards and was sponsored by Malibu Red. The post event was held on Friday evening at the Sunset Tower Hotel and was attended by a number of Mary’s closest industry friends like Diddy, Queen Latifah, Babyface, Jermain Dupri, and MC Lyte.

Her musical idol, Anita Baker was also there to bring well wishes and thanked her for introducing her music to a new generation of fans. “That kind of generosity is non-existent in our business,” said Baker, who was nominated for a Grammy. “This Grammy nomination that I have is in great part because you spoke my name into the 21^st century.”

Ciara and Nick Cannon were also present along with hip hop newbies Future and Big Sean, who called Blige a ‘legend.’

Mary’s career spans over two decades and includes some of the best collaboration in hip hop and R&B music history. The evening also coincided with her 13th VIBE cover and the 20^th year anniversary of the magazine.  Check out a few photos and video below of the festive evening:

Mary J. Blige with husband Kendu Isaacs/Diddy, Stephen Hill, Queen Latifah and Jermaine Dupri

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