Mary J. Blige celebrated her 47th birthday in a special way as she received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Thursday.
The Grammy Award-winning artist and Golden Globe nominee was greeted by fans singing “Happy Birthday” as she posed for pictures. During the emotional ceremony, Blige recalled her childhood in the projects in New York and the big dreams that helped her become the music icon she is today.
While delivering her speech, the singer broke down, revealing that she was homeless just a year ago. She then revealed that it was Jimmy Iovine who who let her stay at his Malibu mansion while she sorted out her issues. She was joined by her longtime friend and mentor, Diddy who told some old stories when MJB was a young struggling artist.
“God gave me the strength to keep steppin’ and keep my head up regardless of what anybody thought about me, regardless of what anybody said about me,” said Mary who is going through a messy divorce with estranged husband Kendu Isaacs. “I see myself clear and it’s not all pretty, but I accept the beautiful mess that I am because it’s an imperfect me, still learning, still growing, still Mary though.” Watch some highlights from the ceremony below.