On this day in 1994, Mary J. Blige proved that the sophomore isn’t always the jinx and her second full length studio project My Life is proof. With executive production from the pre-Bad Boy Puff Daddy supported by The Hitmen, this album reached platinum status within a year of its release, receiving a Grammy nod and a Billboard Award in 1995.

The album had several hit singles, however, the overall tone of the album reflect the MJB’s real life trials and tribulations, which unfortunately contributed to the My Life’s success. Her highly publiciized abusive relationship with Jodeci’s K-Ci Hailey and substance abuse problems ironicaly made her popular among young women who came from a similar background that were facing the same dilemma.

Singles like “I’m Goin’ Down” may have reflected some of her more vulnerable moments, but “Be Happy” and the album’s title track were prophetic to the direction where Mary was headed as we see today. Salute to MJB, Diddy, The Hitmen, Andre Harrell and everyone at Uptown Records who were involved wit hthat project!