by Wednesdays can be a drag. You’re halfway through the workweek but still have a couple days left before the weekend. The hump day slog is all too real. But instead of moping around waiting for Friday, why not turn Wednesday into something more positive and relaxing? Introducing “Wine Down Wednesday” – an evening dedicated to unwinding with a glass of wine and feel-good music from Queen Mary J. Blige.
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Mary’s vast discography is filled with empowering anthems and soul-baring ballads. While hits like “Be Without You” and “Real Love” are rightfully iconic, there are so many incredible songs that get overlooked. Her music is the perfect soundtrack for sipping wine, reflecting on the week, and looking ahead to brighter days. So pour a glass, dim the lights, and cue up this playlist of Mary J.’s underrated gems. You deserve to treat yourself after making it through half the workweek.
Let’s start things off with a confident bop – “Just Like Me” from Mary’s 1994 debut album My Life. With its funky guitar riff and Mary’s powerhouse vocals, this track makes an instant impression. The lyrics find Mary proudly declaring that she’s just as good as anyone else and not to be underestimated. “I’m just like you, you’re just like me/ We all got the same things, we all bleed red” she sings confidently. It’s the perfect pick-me-up to start your Wine Down Wednesday and remind yourself of your own strength and worth.
Next is the soulful breakup ballad “Never No More” from Mary’s 1997 album Share My World. Over a smooth groove, Mary vows to never let another toxic relationship drag her down again. “I gave you everything that I had inside of me/ But you just took and took, never gave back to me” she sings heartbreakingly. But the empowering chorus assures, “Never no more will I slip and fall for you.” Pour another generous glass of wine – you’ve definitely earned it after making it through half a rocky week. Sing along to Mary as you process any stresses or frustrations from your own life.
To keep the positive vibes flowing, cue up “Let It Go” from My Life. With its laidback groove and message of moving forward, it’s the perfect mellow pick-me-up. “Let it go, let it roll right off your shoulder/ Don’t you know, the worst is over” Mary encourages. Take a relaxing moment to breathe, release any lingering tensions, and look ahead to smooth sailing. Refill your glass and keep the good vibes rolling as you transition into the title track “My Life.”
The raw honesty in “My Life” is gut-wrenching. Over sparse instrumentation, Mary vulnerably shares her struggles with poverty, abuse, and depression. But there’s also immense strength and resilience in her voice. She survived, she endured, and she triumphed. Light a candle and really listen to her story – it’s a powerful reminder that you’re not alone in your challenges and struggles. And as Mary proves, with perseverance and self-love, you can overcome anything. Raise a toast to your own resilience and journey.
Now things take a sensual turn with “Tonight” from The Breakthrough. Slow jam classics don’t get much better than this smooth 2005 track. Close your eyes, imagine romance is in the air, and let Mary’s sultry vocals transport you. “Girl I know you want it/ Come on over here and get it” she teases seductively over lush instrumentation. Whether you’re snuggling up with a partner or enjoying some self-care, this song sets the perfect mood. Refill your glass – you’ve earned a bigger pour at this point in the playlist!
For an empowering pick-me-up, cue up the anthemic “Feel Like a Woman” from My Life. “I feel like a woman, I’m enough for any man” Mary declares confidently over funky guitars. Raise your glass and sing along – this song is the ultimate reminder to embrace your femininity, own your worth, and feel beautiful inside and out. No matter your gender identity, its message of self-love is universally inspiring.
Next is a hip-hop classic – “What’s the 411?” from Mary’s 1992 debut but in a remix featuring the late, great Notorious B.I.G. With Mary’s soulful vocals gliding over Biggie’s smooth flow, their chemistry is undeniable. They trade flirty lines back and forth, leaving you wanting to hear more of this iconic duo. Their charisma and talent shine through and make for an undeniably fun listen. Dance around your living room as you sing along – you’ve earned it after getting through the week!
For an uplifting transition, cue up the sample of Curtis Mayfield’s “Move On Up” in Mary’s “Be Happy” from My Life. With its message of choosing peace over drama and finding light within darkness, it never fails to lift spirits. Close your eyes, feel the sunshine through the windows, and let the positive vibes wash over you as Mary’s powerful voice soars. You’ve gotten through half the week – you deserve to feel good!
Things take a sultry turn with “Beautiful Stranger” – Mary’s duet with the late great Prince from The Breakthrough. Their chemistry is pure magic as their voices weave together seductively. Candlelight, wine, and this song is a match made in heaven. Whether you’re snuggling with a partner or enjoying solo self-care, its sensuality is the perfect way to transition into the more emotional second half of the playlist.
Brace yourself for gut-wrenching emotion as “Why” from My Life comes on next. Over sparse piano, Mary vulnerably asks why the ones who were supposed to love her most caused her the most pain. Her raw vocals will leave you in tears but also in awe of her talent and resilience. Take a moment to process any emotions the song stirs up, whether it’s about your own life experiences or just empathy for Mary’s journey. Your glass may need a refill at this point too!
We’re nearing the end now but saving one of Mary’s most powerful ballads for last – “Why” from My Life. Over achingly beautiful instrumentation, Mary’s voice soars to new heights as she pours her heart out about the struggles of her past. It’s gut-wrenching but also inspiring to witness the strength and perseverance in her voice after all she endured. As the song winds down, take a moment to reflect on your own journey so far. You’ve made it through half a challenging week and have so much more to be proud of. Your glass is surely empty by now – raise it in a toast to yourself and all you’ve overcome. You deserve this moment of self-care, relaxation and appreciation.
And with that, your first “Wine Down Wednesday” with Mary J. Blige comes to an end. But hopefully it’s just the beginning of a new midweek ritual to look forward to. Her music provided the perfect soundtrack to unwind, process emotions, and feel empowered after facing the challenges of your workweek so far. With her guidance and support, you’re sure to make it through the remaining days with grace and positivity. So cheers to you – keep your head high and remember that queens recognize other queens. You’ve got this!
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