Mary J. Blige Says 'Beautiful Friend' Taraji P. Henson's 'Courage Really Sets Her Apart': 'She Is Unapologetically Herself'

The Oscar-nominated actress was among the stars featured in the annual "100 Most Influential People" issue of TIME

Mary J. Blige is singing the praises of one of her closest friends.

The Queen of R&B, 53, wrote a thoughtful tribute about Taraji P. Henson, as she was among the stars featured in this year's edition of TIME's "100 Most Influential People" issue. Not only did Blige open up about their close friendship of over 15 years, she revealed what she admires most about the actress, 53.

"What I love most about her is that she is unapologetically herself," the Grammy winner shared. "Taraji is a real woman — she doesn’t bite her tongue, and she’s not afraid to stand up for what she believes in. She’s always true and authentic."

Related: Taraji P. Henson Wears Sexy See-Through Dress for TIME Women of the Year Gala

Blige added that Henson's authenticity translates to her performances as an actress, writing that she's "just as fearless onscreen." She said, "Watching her commit 1 million percent to whatever character she’s portraying is amazing. Her courage really sets her apart, in Hollywood and in real life."

The "Real Love" singer's tribute even began by noting how the star of The Color Purple's presence in films and TV made her feel connected to Henson before they even met. "She was an actor I loved to watch, and I always felt like I could relate to her because she perfectly embodied who we are as women," Blige revealed.

"I couldn’t wait to meet her," Blige added. "And when I finally did, it was on and popping from there. Taraji fit right into my crew."

Related: Mary J. Blige Admits She Used to 'Hate' the Sound of Her Voice but Her Self-Love Journey Changed That: 'I'm a Fan'

Blige's kind words concluded by continuing to encourage her "beautiful friend" and "sis" to "keep being yourself and keep doing what you’re doing."

"There’s nobody like you," she wrote. "I love you."

The Golden Globe winner was among the A-listers featured in this year's TIME100. Her castmates from The Color Purple, such as Fantasia Barrino and Colman Domingo, were also included, as well as performers like Dev Patel, Dua Lipa, Elliot Page, Kylie Minogue and Sofia Coppola.

Blige and Henson have been close with one another ever since they appeared as costars in the 2009 Tyler Perry film I Can Do Bad All By Myself.

Over the years, the two superstars have vacationed and stepped out to events together, and the "Mary Jane" artist even showed her support for the Empire alum by speaking at her Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in 2019.

Related: Mary J. Blige Says She Still Believes in Love Despite Past Heartbreaks: 'I Want a Man!'

Blige is currently gearing up to uplift even more women in her life with the upcoming Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit.

Founded by the singer-songwriter, the event — which features performances from musicians and comedians, keynote speakers and inspirational panels — is set to return for its third iteration from May 10-12.

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This year, the hitmaker will host the event in New York City, marking a first for the fest, as it's usually thrown in Atlanta.

A star-studded lineup of performers will take the stage at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, such as the "Family Affair" singer herself, 50 Cent, Fat Joe, Jadakiss, Jill Scott, Lola Brooke and others.

A handful of comedians, including Tiffany Haddish, will also perform stand-up at the Apollo Theater.

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