Mary J. Blige and Angie Martinez have been friends for over 20 years. During an appearance on Martinez’s podcast, the R&B legend reflected on their friendship.

Blige said while holding back tears, “Angie, look where we are.”

“Remember me when you first met me? This is not the same person.”

Blige continued, “You were always strong to me … you were always my strong sister. You were like a rock. I was like, ‘I need her.’ Because I wasn’t that.”

They also laughed about Martinez’s sometimes tough advice. Blige said, “I just needed a hug. I just need some sympathy.”

It’s been a great year for Blige. She released her latest Good Morning Gorgeous in February.  A tour is set to begin September 17th in Greensboro, NC, and will be hitting different cities with the last stop on October 19th in Atlantic City, NJ. The tour will feature Queen Naija and Ella Mai.