Mary J. Blige says she learned the hard way how important it is to understand her finances
Singer Mary J. Blige reflects on her early career, noting that a lack of financial literacy and poor guidance led to exploitative contracts. She emphasizes the importance of understanding business and taking personal responsibility for financial decisions.
Why it matters
It highlights the vulnerability of young artists in the entertainment industry and the critical need for financial education to prevent exploitation.
Mary J. Blige said her mother signed her music contract on the washing machine. Rodin Eckenroth/GA/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty Images Mary J. Blige said she entered the music industry knowing little about the business side. She said people around her benefited from her lack of financial knowledge early in her career. She has since learned from the experience and isn't afraid to ask questions or seek help. Mary J. Blige said her early success came with a steep learning curve when it came to money and contracts. On Wednesday's episode of the "IMO" podcast , the singer said her lack of financial knowledge left her vulnerable early in her career. "We signed a contract in the kitchen, on the washing machine. My mom didn't know anything. She didn't even know anything about reading a contract, nor did we care," Blige told podcast hosts Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson.
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