Mary J Blige – Xcel Energy Center – St. Paul, MN – March 16th, 2025

Mary J Blige with Ne-Yo and Mario – Xcel Energy Center – St. Paul, MN – March 16th, 2025

Review and photos by Kate Klaus

The For My Fans tour from the queen of R&B, Mary J Blige, was a beautiful and electrifying journey show full raw energy, vulnerability, and the resilience that have defined her career. Joined by iconic 2000s R&B powerhouses Ne-Yo and Mario, it was a powerfully connected show, that despite being held in the large Xcel Energy Center arena, felt like an intimate gathering with a sea of dedicated fans.  

Mario started off the night with a sultry and moving performance that was a captivating display of vocal prowess and emotional depth, reaffirming why he remains a standout in the R&B genre. From the moment he took the stage, opening with “Here I Go Again” and then getting the crowd singing with “Just a Friend”, his energy and stage presence were undeniable. His voice, which has only grown richer with time, was as smooth and powerful as ever, effortlessly hitting the high notes while maintaining a warm, soulful tone.  His smile was radiant as he performed through a set that seemed to end all too quickly as the arena was energized for more amazing music.  

Ne-Yo’s set began with an electrifying energy that set the tone for the night and built on the energy that Mario had infused into the night.  His stage presence was magnetic, owning the stage with a natural confidence that had the entire crowd hooked from the moment he stepped on stage. His voice, as smooth as ever, floated through the air with ease, effortlessly hitting those signature falsetto notes while grounding the performance with his rich, soulful lower range.  The show was visually stunning as well. The lighting, choreography, and stage design were all captivating, elevating the experience without overshadowing the music. Ne-Yo’s dancers added another layer of excitement, syncing flawlessly with him during his high-energy numbers and adding flair and energy to the show that energized the crowd even more.  

Mary J Blige closed the night showing her unwavering influence in the world of R&B and the deep connection with her fans.  She opened the night rising to a secondary stage back at the sound board and greeting and grabbing the hands of excited fans as she opened with “Take Me As I Am”.  As she followed that up with “Dream”, she boarded a beautiful chandelier-esque cart that carried her over the crowd and over to the main stage, where she abandoned her velvety blue fur coat and joined her vibrant dancers for “Love No Limit”.  Her setlist was a perfect blend of her classic hits like “Family Affair,” and “Be Without You,” alongside newer tracks that show just how far she’s come as an artist. Each song was performed with the same passion that has made her one of the most influential figures in R&B. The production was spectactular, with stunning visuals and a dynamic stage setup that was perfectly complemented by a talented live band and infectiously energentic dancers.  As she closed the night with the crowd on their feet for “Family Affair”, she confirmed why she’s known as the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul. For anyone lucky enough to attend this show, it was a night to remember – a true celebration of music, love, and strength.