Mary J. Blige is definitely an icon and is considered a positive role model in the Black community. She recently made historic sales during her HSN launch of the “My Life” fragrance collection and The.Life Files was on location to talk beauty with the singer. “[Beauty is] the ability to accept one’s self through anything. No matter what you are or what you’re doing…especially when there are negative things being said about you. Beauty is being able to conquer all of that,” she says matter-of-factly in the video interview.

Blige also believes that being a role model is not a choice for high-profile celebs and that it just comes with the territory. “Automatically, once you’re on television, someone somewhere is watching. You don’t have to want to become a role model, but it happens.” The star is happy to empower women with her candid lyrics and would like to see “health” become a more discussed topic in the lives of young women.  “Health is a major part of your life. And that’s the part that’s not taught as much.”

As for her music, “amazing” is the word the singer uses to describe her forthcoming album My Life 2. “I think it will be everything that everyone expects. It’s some fire coming!”

(Photo: Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images for DKMS)