December 2005

Queen of Hip-Hop Soul Mary J. Blige released The Breakthrough to widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, winning three Grammy Awards including Best R&B Album and cementing her legacy as the most important female figure in R&B.

USC tailback Reggie Bush won the Heisman Trophy in one of college football's most dazzling seasons, though he was later required to return the award following NCAA eligibility violations. His on-field brilliance made him the number two overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft.