Did You Know? Music Artist Chaka Khan Wasn’t a Fan of Mary J. Blige’s Version of "Sweet Thing"

Legendary singer Chaka Khan, known for her powerhouse vocals and timeless hits, has never been one to hold back her opinions — and that includes her thoughts on other artists covering her classics. One of the most talked-about moments in recent R&B history came when Chaka candidly admitted she wasn’t a fan of Mary J. Blige’s version of “Sweet Thing.”

The song, originally recorded by Rufus featuring Chaka Khan in 1975, became an R&B staple and one of Chaka’s signature tracks. So when Mary J. Blige released her own rendition on her 1992 debut album What’s the 411?, it was meant as a tribute to the Queen of Funk herself. However, Chaka didn’t quite see it that way.

In a now-infamous interview, Chaka Khan openly stated that she felt Mary J. Blige “f’d the song up,” expressing disappointment in how her classic had been reimagined. Her blunt honesty sparked waves of discussion in the music community, with some fans agreeing that the original remains untouchable — while others defended Mary’s soulful, raw interpretation as a heartfelt homage.

Despite the controversy, both women have continued to command immense respect in the music industry. Chaka Khan remains an icon of funk, soul, and R&B whose influence spans generations, while Mary J. Blige is celebrated as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul,” inspiring countless artists with her emotional depth and authenticity.

In later years, Chaka clarified that her comments weren’t meant to tear Mary down, but to express how protective she felt over her work — especially songs that carry deep personal meaning. And truthfully, both versions of “Sweet Thing” have earned their place in R&B history — one as a groundbreaking original, and the other as a bold reinterpretation that helped define an era.

Whether you prefer Chaka’s silky original or Mary’s gritty, heartfelt cover, one thing is undeniable: “Sweet Thing” continues to be one of the most beloved love songs in soul music — proof that true classics never fade, they just evolve.