She’s known as the “queen of hip-hop soul” – Mary J. Blige appeared on The Today Show this morning to discuss the many hats she wears.

This summer, the soulful crooner is headlining the 16th annual Essence Magazine Music Festival which will feature a number of talented artists such as Alicia Keys, John Legend, Janet Jackson and Jill Scott.

WATCH THE TODAY SHOW INTERVIEW WITH MARY J. BLIGE:

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In addition to serenading the masses, Mary J. finds time to give back to her community as is evident in the new charity she started, Foundation for the Advancement of Women. “We specialize in giving women who’ve gotten down on their self-esteem a second chance” says Blige.

And later this year, she’s tackling Hollywood in the upcoming biopic on American singer, songwriter and civil rights activist, Nina Simone.