Mary J. Blige Reveals Unreleased Jay-Z Collab, Passing on Rihanna’s “Umbrella", & Vegas Residency
Mary J. Blige Reveals Unreleased Jay-Z Collab, Passing on Rihanna’s “Umbrella", & Vegas Residency  
Podcast: 7PM in Brooklyn with Carmelo Anthony
Published On: Mon Jan 19 2026
Description: Mary J. Blige pulls up to 7PM in Brooklyn and gets real. She talks about an unreleased record with Jay Z that never saw the light of day, why she passed on Rihanna’s “Umbrella” before it became a global hit, and collaborating with a generation of brilliant Black women on the Waiting to Exhale soundtrack that helped define an era. The conversation moves through legacy without forcing it. From trusting instinct over hype to why her Vegas residency feels like earned peace, not a victory lap, Mary reflects on the moments that shaped her path and the ones that almost happened. This is Mary. Comfortable. Reflective. Speaking from the other side of the work. Tap in. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices