"No one is better at brand extensions than Puffy Combs, the rap star, " says Robert La Franco, author of the Combs profile on page 180.

FORBES: Sidelines

Initially a protege of Sean "Puffy" Combs, Blige broke free in a manner that -- contrary to rumors -- was amicable.

CNN: Mary J. Blige going 'Live' for her fans

That role took shape on the raw 1994 album "My Life, " produced by Sean "Puffy" Combs and recorded when Ms. Blige says she was hitting bottom.

WSJ: Mary J. Blige: Music's Diva of Self-Help