Mariah Carey is a legendary singer and songwriter who has transformed the music industry. When she first stepped on the scene, she amazed audiences with her five octave range. Then, she popularized the pop/hip-hop collaboration. This set a trend that several future stars would follow.
Carey has earned a record 18 number one songs on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. However, her most essential songs aren't only the hits she's known for. These songs include remixes and deep cuts. These are five of Mariah Carey's most essential songs.
5. Petals
This track appeared on Carey's 1999 album, "Rainbow." It includes some of her most personal and heartbreaking lyrics. Over the years, fans have speculated who the lyrics are talking about. It remains an unforgettable part of Carey's musical history.
4. Dreamlover (Def Club Mix)
Mariah Carey and house music were a winning combination in the nineties. Carey developed a fan base in the dance clubs with her lengthy house remixes. This was the first of those remixes, where she re-sang her vocals to match David Morales' production. Very few artists put the effort into remixes the way Mariah Carey did.
3. Fantasy (feat. O.D.B.)
Carey fought to be able to do this remix. It was produced by Diddy (known then as Puffy) and featured Wu-Tang Clan's Ol' Dirty Bastard. At the time, the combination seemed odd. However, this soon set a trend for both Carey's music and pop music in general.
2. Vision Of Love
This was the first single released from Carey's self-titled debut album in 1990. The lyrics talk about God, faith, and believing in your dreams. These are all themes Carey would continue to delve into with her music. It was the beginning of an inspiring musical legacy that continues to this day.
1. Close My Eyes
From the 1997 opus, "Butterfly," this is Carey's most personal work. The lyrics to this track describe her childhood and eventual growth into adulthood. It also vaguely touches on certain challenges she faced along the way. It has meant a lot to fans, who have been able to relate to the song's lyrics.
