Mary J Blige the "For My Fans Tour" at the United Center in Chicago

Mar 203 min read

On March 14, 2025, Mary J Blige, Ne-Yo, and Mario performed at the United Center in Chicago. A stop on Mary's "For My Fans Tour". The show was attended by many fans, and it certainly did not disappoint.

The night started out with Mario. An American singer most known for his song, "Let me love you" which was released in 2004 as part of his album Turning Point. His setlist included both new and old songs including some off his newest album "Glad you came", which he dropped in mid-December of 2024.

Mario was joined on stage with a group of backup dancers, and they made the performance that much more engaging. From his beautiful lyrics to his vocal range, Mario is certainly an artist to see and worth showing up early for as he makes more stops on the "For My Fans Tour" this spring.

After Mario was Ne-Yo. An American singer/songwriter known for his collabs with Pitbull as well as his own hit songs. His set list featured many of his hit songs such as: Miss Independent, Because of You, Closer, So Sick, Sexy Love, Give Me Everything, and a few others. For me this was a real treat because I grew up listening to these songs and dancing to his music. Seeing him perform live and up close in addition to capturing his performance made the moment even more memorable.

Finally, Mary J Blige, known as the "Queen of Hip-Hop and Soul" and "Queen of R&B", graced the audience with her presence and started off on the B stage near the VIP section. She emerged wearing a black sparkly outfit and sunglasses to match. She sang as she greeted fans and held their hands before gliding across the United Center, suspended above the crowd, and then made her grand entrance on the main stage.

Mary was joined by many male and female backup dancers that seemed to enjoy every moment just as much as she did all while making her the highlight of the show.

The stage for this tour was unlike anything I have seen before. Suspended above her was a giant crown with her initials supported by 2 hands that featured gold accents and cracks. Her performance also included pyrotechnics including flames and sparks, which was a bit of a scare for fans and workers at the United Center due to all 6 of the Chicago Bulls Championship banners catching fire and being pulled from the rafters the weekend before. Nonetheless, Mary J Blige put on an amazing show and somehow managed to make the United Center feel like an intimate dance party with friends. All while dancing on stage herself and looking amazing while doing it.

If you're thinking about grabbing a ticket for this tour... do it. You won't be disappointed.