“The Songbird Supreme,” aka Mariah Carey, has whistled and toned her way into everyone’s hearts for over four decades. As one of the most successful music artists in the 21st century, she holds many Billboard records, including the most Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 singles. Carey has solidified herself as a legend through her unique vocal style, range, and songwriting.
After being discovered by Colombia Records executive Tommy Mottola, Carey’s career soared throughout the ’90s. She became known for her high vocal register and instantly inspired a generation of singers. Her vocals are just one of her many talents, as she is a member of the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame. She has also been included in the National Recording Registry.
The mother of two has been named the “Queen of Christmas” after the release and ongoing popularity of her No. 1 hit, “All I Want for Christmas is You.” Carey spurred new music industry trends by being one of the first pop stars to feature hip-hop artists in her songs. Additionally, she popularized the use of remixes, which is still utilized in the music industry.
As she celebrates her 55th birthday on March 27, 2024, here is a list of Mariah Carey’s best songs!
1. Emotions
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As one of the first hits for the singer, “Emotions” was an introduction to Carey’s vocal ability. The 1991 song explores the emotional roller coaster of falling in love using R&B, gospel, and disco influences. The song became popular for the singer’s whistle tones, as few others could accomplish these notes. “Emotions” was the 55-year-old’s fifth consecutive No. 1 single.
2. Always Be My Baby
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Released in 1995, “Always Be My Baby” is an R&B staple in homes across America. Decades after its release, the song has been deemed a classic, as it describes the lingering feelings after a breakup. The No. 1 hit tied Carey with Madonna and Whitney Houston for the most No. 1 singles by a female artist and was certified platinum five times.
3. Obsessed
As the lead single of Carey’s 12th studio album, “Obsessed,” was an instant hit. Due to the accompanying video, rumors began to swirl that the song was about Eminem, who mentioned her in several of his songs. The song was Carey’s 27th Top 10 appearance on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song’s opening, “And I was like, ‘Why are you so obsessed with me?’” also became a fan favorite saying and spurred social media trends in later years.
4. We Belong Together
After a hiatus from music, Carey released her 10th studio album, “The Emancipation of MiMi.” The album was meant to be her comeback, and she did not disappoint. One of the album’s singles, “We Belong Together,” is still considered one of the best pop/R&B songs ever, specifically in the 21st century. Billboard named the track “Song of the Decade” as it peaked at No. 1 for 14 consecutive weeks on the Billboard Hot 100. It spent 43 weeks on the chart, making it undoubtedly one of Mariah Carey’s best songs.
5. All I Want for Christmas is You
Credit: Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic for Mariah Carey
As mentioned, “All I Want for Christmas Is You” is one of Carey’s most successful songs. Her love for the Christmas season was evident as she wrote most of the song. As the lead song off of her 1994 Christmas album, it is one of the most successful holiday songs by a female artist. It is now considered a Christmas staple and rises in popularity every holiday season.
Mariah Carey has given multiple generations impressive ballads, pop hits, and Christmas joy. Her legacy is unmatched, as she is one of the few music artists to be recognized for her vocal talents and songwriting abilities.
What is one of Mariah Carey’s best songs? Let us know in the comments below.
