From the moment Mary J. Blige arrived at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills, it was apparent that she was a woman comfortable with loving herself and the direction in which her life was going. During our 30-minute conversation, she spoke about her transition into womanhood, domestic violence, the importance of getting her GED and how she connected to the new film, The Help. Here are excerpts from our conversation, which will appear in its entirety in an upcoming cover story of rolling out magazine. –amir shaw
How did you get involved with the film, The Help?
I was asked to screen the film. I saw the film twice, and different things would jump out at me. I would cry uncontrollably and laugh at times. I was going through different emotions. While watching the film, I would type notes in my Blackberry anytime I would see something interesting. By the time I got to the studio, the song was almost done.
In what ways did you connect with the characters?
I personally connected with the characters’ struggle because they had the courage to do something about their life and change things. The lead character [played by Viola Davis] had the courage to speak about her life as a maid. I used my life to speak up about things. The one thing that is consistent is courage.
Some of the characters in the film deal with abuse. How do women find themselves in such relationships?
Women find themselves in abusive relationships because of fear. Sometimes, they feel that they are not worthy and, sometimes, it is due to insecurities. Not feeling you’re worthy of having someone that treats you right. It’s mostly fear and insecurities that cause women to end up in relationships like that and stay in it. But you have to take a stand. Get some people around you to help you. Get some people around who can protect you and help you move away from that person.
You recently got your GED. Why did you decide to go back after so many years?
I got my GED because I found myself being taken advantage of, getting robbed and not told the truth about things in the music business. I wanted to know how to do certain things, and I never had the confidence. Being educated gives you confidence. It makes you feel complete.
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