One of Mary J. Blige’s closest friends is being praised by the singer.

The 53-year-old Queen of R&B wrote a heartfelt ode to Taraji P. Henson, who was one of the celebrities included in TIME’s “100 Most Influential People” issue this year. Blige disclosed not just their intimate connection spanning more than 15 years, but also the quality in the 53-year-old actress that she finds most admirable.

The Grammy winner said, “What I love most about her is that she is unapologetically herself.” “Taraji is a true woman; she doesn’t hold back and isn’t scared to speak up for her convictions. She is consistently sincere and real.”

Blige added that Henson’s authenticity translates to her performances as an actress, writing that she’s “just as fearless onscreen.” She said, “Watching her commit 1 million percent to whatever character she’s portraying is amazing. Her courage really sets her apart, in Hollywood and in real life.”

The “Real Love” singer’s tribute even began by noting how the star of The Color Purple‘s presence in films and TV made her feel connected to Henson before they even met. “She was an actor I loved to watch, and I always felt like I could relate to her because she perfectly embodied who we are as women,” Blige revealed.

“I couldn’t wait to meet her,” Blige added. “And when I finally did, it was on and popping from there. Taraji fit right into my crew.”

Blige’s kind words concluded by continuing to encourage her “beautiful friend” and “sis” to “keep being yourself and keep doing what you’re doing.”

“There’s nobody like you,” she wrote. “I love you.”

The Golden Globe winner was among the A-listers featured in this year’s TIME100. Her castmates from The Color Purple, such as Fantasia Barrino and Colman Domingo, were also included, as well as performers like Dev Patel, Dua Lipa, Elliot Page, Kylie Minogue and Sofia Coppola.

Blige and Henson have been close with one another ever since they appeared as costars in the 2009 Tyler Perry film I Can Do Bad All By Myself.

Over the years, the two superstars have vacationed and stepped out to events together, and the “Mary Jane” artist even showed her support for the Empire alum by speaking at her Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in 2019..

Blige is currently gearing up to uplift even more women in her life with the upcoming Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit.

Founded by the singer-songwriter, the event — which features performances from musicians and comedians, keynote speakers and inspirational panels — is set to return for its third iteration from May 10-12.

The hitmaker is hosting the festival for the first time this year in New York City, since it is typically held in Atlanta.

Star-studded performers like 50 Cent, Fat Joe, Jadakiss, Jill Scott, Lola Brooke, and the vocalist of “Family Affair” herself will take the stage at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

At the Apollo Theater, a few comedians will also provide stand-up performances, Tiffany Haddish among them.