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Home · News

Behind-the-scenes at the Mary J. Blige Cover Shoot

Behind-the-scenes at the Mary J. Blige Cover Shoot
By · Updated October 30, 2020
01
12402 Mary J Blige Behind The Scence Photographer Snapping Man Holding Her Phone

March 7, 2007: It’s a bright, picturesque morning as we kick-start our day at Hollywood’s famed Siren Studios with glam couple Mary J. and Kendu Isaacs. Not only is this Mary’s sixth Essence cover and the couple’s second, but 2007 also marks the fifteenth anniversary of Mary’s breakout album, What’s the 411? … Mary J. looks drop-dead gorgeous as she readies for her close-up.

Behind-the-scenes at the Mary J. Blige Cover Shoot
Sandra Martin
02
12412 Mary J And Husband Getting Prep

Though shoot veterans, Mary J. and Kendu smile like new kids on the block when they hear our vision: a modern spin on that classic 1970’s love story, the movie Mahogany. Mary is quite at ease as makeup artist Troy Jensen illuminates her flawless skin, and hairstylist Kim Kimble delivers one irresistible do after another. As Kimble’s old-school playlist (including George Benson’s “Star of a Story” and Deniece Williams’s “Black Butterfly”) echoes in the background, Mary connects with photographer Mark Liddell while he gently directs her every move. When Kendu joins her on set, pulling her into his arms to the tune of Slave’s “Just a Touch of Love,” the tempo shifts. Asked how she feels, Mary simply says, “Gorgeous!”óMIKKI TAYLOR, beauty director and cover editor.

Behind-the-scenes at the Mary J. Blige Cover Shoot
Sandra Martin
03
12422 Mary Getting Her Hair Done And Husband Watching

Kendu checks out his Queen.

Behind-the-scenes at the Mary J. Blige Cover Shoot
Sandra Martin
04
12432 Behind The Scenes Mary J Blige Makeup

Mary gets glam for her next shot.

Behind-the-scenes at the Mary J. Blige Cover Shoot
Sandra Martin
05
12441 Behind The Scenes Cover Shoot Mary J Blige Makeup Glow

Mary gets that glow!

Behind-the-scenes at the Mary J. Blige Cover Shoot
Sandra Martin
06
12442 Behind The Scenes Cover Shoot Mary J Blige Angle Shot

It’s all in the angles.

Behind-the-scenes at the Mary J. Blige Cover Shoot
Sandra Martin
07
12452 Behind The Scenes Mary J Blige Diamonds

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend.

Behind-the-scenes at the Mary J. Blige Cover Shoot
Sandra Martin
08
12462 Behind The Scenes Mary J Blige Finishing Touches

Finishing touches.

Behind-the-scenes at the Mary J. Blige Cover Shoot
Sandra Martin
09
12471 Behind The Scenes Mary J Blige Kendu

Mary and Kendu pick out their favorite poses.

Behind-the-scenes at the Mary J. Blige Cover Shoot
Sandra Martin
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