Mixtape DJ and producer J. Period will celebrate two years worth of work creating his Best of Mary J. Blige mixtape, by launching a series of events to commemorate the project's long-awaited release.
A three CD collection originally produced as a promo piece for Blige’s Grammy-winning album The Breakthrough, the release captured a strong buzz that resulted in discussion to unveil the mixtape as an official album release.
The Best of Mary J. Blige will include more than 120 classics from the singer, as well as unreleased gems, behind-the-scenes interviews, J. Period remixes and new Blige tracks recorded exclusively for the project.
"This collection is a testament to the staying power and versatility of Mary," said J.Period. "The fact that Mary herself is so excited about it shows me I have created something her fans are truly going to love. Mixtapes had a tough year last year, but in 2008 I’m out to show the impact, importance and longevity of this artform."
The mixtape will also include contributions from Alicia Keys, Les Nubians, MC Lyte, Q-Tip, Talib Kweli, CL Smooth, Mister Cee, and Big Daddy Kane.
"This mix is crazy!" Blige said about the project, which chronicles various aspects of her singing career.
Volume one of the collection, titled "Queen of Hip Hop," showcases the singer's role as one of Hip-Hop's top female singers, while Vol. 2 "Queen of Soul" highlights Blige's R&B prowess next to today’s top stars.
Vol.3., "Queen of Hearts" rounds out the release as it features a collection of Blige ballads.
To commemorate the project's official release, J. Period will hold Best of MJB Week, a week-long series of six back-to-back release parties in New York City at Tillman’s, APT, Mannahatta, Midway, Canal Room and Novo Lounge.
The series will kick off today (Feb. 19) and run through Saturday (Feb. 23).
Free giveaways including Blige CDs, Skull Candy headphones and more will be handed out during the festivities.
Additional release parties in Los Angeles, Oakland, Atlanta and Philly are scheduled for March as well as tour, event and online giveaways.
In the coming months, fans can look for J. Period to work on projects alongside Grammy winner Alicia Keys and Talib Kweli as well as additional scoring duties for the Fox Searchlight feature Street Kings.
