Mariah Carey is one of the most iconic and celebrated artists of our time. With a career spanning over three decades, she has sold over 200 million records worldwide and has won countless awards, including five Grammy Awards and 19 World Music Awards. Carey’s music has been a constant presence in the pop culture landscape, and her voice has become synonymous with some of the most beloved ballads and anthems of the 90s and 2000s.
In this article, we will be counting down the top 20 best Mariah Carey songs of all time. From her early hits like “Vision of Love” and “Hero” to her later collaborations with artists like Boyz II Men and Jay-Z, we will be exploring the depth and range of Carey’s career and highlighting the songs that have defined her legacy. Whether you are a die-hard fan or just discovering her music, this list is sure to have something for everyone, and showcase the brilliance and staying power of Mariah Carey’s music.
1. ‘All I Want for Christmas is You’ (1994)
“All I Want for Christmas is You” is a classic holiday song by Mariah Carey, released in 1994 as the lead single from her Christmas album “Merry Christmas.” The song is a catchy and upbeat pop track with a cheerful melody, catchy hook, and lyrics that express the joy and excitement of the holiday season. The song has become a beloved Christmas staple and is played on the radio and in stores every holiday season. The accompanying music video features Carey singing and dancing in a festive holiday setting, with images of snow, presents, and Christmas trees evoking the magic of the season. “All I Want for Christmas is You” is a timeless and joyous song that captures the essence of the holiday season and has become a beloved part of popular culture.
2. ‘Hero’ (1993)
“Hero” is a ballad by Mariah Carey, released in 1993 as the second single from her third studio album “Music Box.” The song is a classic power ballad that showcases Carey’s vocal range and emotional depth. The lyrics describe the idea of being a hero and finding strength in oneself, even in the darkest of times. The song has become one of Carey’s most iconic and enduring hits, and its message of resilience and hope has resonated with audiences around the world. The accompanying music video features Carey singing the song against a backdrop of inspiring images, including soldiers, firefighters, and ordinary people performing acts of heroism. “Hero” is a timeless and inspiring song that has become a staple of Carey’s catalog and a classic of the 90s pop era.
3. ‘We Belong Together’ (2005)
“We Belong Together” is a song by Mariah Carey, released in 2005 as the second single from her tenth studio album “The Emancipation of Mimi.” The song is a mid-tempo R&B ballad that features Carey’s signature vocal runs and emotional depth. The lyrics describe the pain of a failed relationship and the longing to be reunited with a lost love. The song has become one of Carey’s most successful hits, topping the charts in the US and becoming one of the best-selling songs of the 2000s. The accompanying music video features Carey as a runaway bride, driving around in a vintage car and singing the song in various locations. “We Belong Together” is a powerful and heartfelt song that showcases Carey’s talent as a singer and songwriter, and has become a classic of the 2000s R&B era.
4. ‘One Sweet Day’ (1995)
“One Sweet Day” is a duet by Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men, released in 1995 as the second single from Carey’s fifth studio album “Daydream.” The song is a ballad that features Carey’s and Boyz II Men’s smooth vocals and harmonies, and its lyrics describe the loss of a loved one and the longing to be reunited with them in the afterlife. The song was a massive commercial success, spending a record-breaking 16 weeks at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The accompanying music video features Carey and Boyz II Men performing the song against a backdrop of images of loved ones who have passed away. “One Sweet Day” is a timeless and emotional ballad that has become a classic of the 90s pop era, and a tribute to lost loved ones everywhere.
5. ‘Vision of Love’ (1990)
“Vision of Love” is a debut single by Mariah Carey, released in 1990 as the lead single from her self-titled debut album. The song is a soulful ballad that showcases Carey’s vocal range and signature melismatic singing style. The lyrics describe the feeling of falling in love and the sense of wonder and possibility that it brings. The song was a critical and commercial success, topping the charts in the US and earning Carey her first Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. The accompanying music video features Carey singing the song in a black dress against a minimalist white background. “Vision of Love” is a classic of the 90s pop era and a signature song of Carey’s career.
6. ‘Dreamlover’ (1993)
“Dreamlover” is a song by Mariah Carey, released in 1993 as the lead single from her third studio album “Music Box.” The song is an upbeat, feel-good pop track that features Carey’s signature vocal runs and a catchy hook. The lyrics describe the feeling of being in love and the joy that it brings, and the music video features Carey frolicking on a beach and dancing with children. The song was a commercial success, topping the charts in the US and several other countries. “Dreamlover” is a classic of the 90s pop era and a testament to Carey’s talent as a singer and songwriter, and is still a beloved track among her fans.
7. ‘Fantasy’ (1995)
“Fantasy” is a hit song by Mariah Carey, released in 1995. It features a sample from Tom Tom Club’s “Genius of Love” and is known for its upbeat, catchy melody and Carey’s impressive vocal range. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to follow their dreams and embrace their imaginations. The music video showcases a vibrant, colorful aesthetic and features Carey performing in various outfits and settings. “Fantasy” was a major commercial success, becoming Carey’s ninth number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 and helping solidify her as one of the most successful and influential artists of the 1990s.
8. ‘Honey’ (1997)
“Honey” is a popular song by Mariah Carey, released in 1997. The song features a groovy, danceable beat, with Carey’s signature powerful vocals leading the way. Its lyrics are about the singer’s desire for a man, with metaphors of honey used to convey her attraction. The music video for the song features Carey in various outfits and locations, including a tropical island, where she dances and flirts with her love interest. “Honey” was a commercial success, peaking at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving critical acclaim for its catchy beat and sultry vocals. It remains a classic example of Carey’s iconic pop sound.
9. ‘Always Be My Baby’ (1996)
“Always Be My Baby” is a song by Mariah Carey, released in 1996 as the third single from her fifth studio album “Daydream.” The song is an upbeat and catchy R&B track that features a hip-hop beat and a catchy chorus. The lyrics describe the feeling of a love that never fades, even after a breakup, and the music video features Carey on a road trip with friends. The song was a commercial success, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning Carey a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. “Always Be My Baby” is a fan favorite and a staple of 90s pop culture, and is still a beloved track among Carey’s fans today.
10. ‘I’ll Be There’ (1992)
“I’ll Be There” is a song originally recorded by The Jackson 5 in 1970 and later covered by Mariah Carey and Trey Lorenz for Carey’s MTV Unplugged performance in 1992. The song is a soulful ballad that features Carey and Lorenz’s powerful and emotive vocal performances. The lyrics describe the unconditional love and support that one person offers to another, and the music video features Carey and Lorenz performing the song live in an intimate setting. The song was a commercial success, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, and earned Carey and Lorenz a nomination for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals at the 1993 Grammy Awards. “I’ll Be There” is a heartfelt tribute to a classic song and a testament to Carey’s talent as a vocalist.
11. ‘Emotions’ (1991)
“Emotions” is a classic song by Mariah Carey, released in 1991. The song features an upbeat, energetic melody and showcases Carey’s impressive vocal range, with powerful high notes and soulful ad-libs. Its lyrics are about the intense emotions of falling in love and being swept away by passion. The music video for the song features Carey in a glamorous, black and white setting, performing the song with a full band and backup singers. “Emotions” was a major commercial success, becoming Carey’s fifth consecutive number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100, and has remained a fan favorite and iconic example of Carey’s early 90s sound.
12. ‘My All’ (1998)
“My All” is a song by Mariah Carey, released in 1998 as the second single from her sixth studio album “Butterfly.” The song is a romantic ballad with a Latin-inspired melody and features Carey’s powerful and emotive vocal performance. The lyrics describe the intensity of a love affair, and the music video features Carey in a tropical setting with her lover. The song was a commercial success, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning Carey a nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance at the 1999 Grammy Awards. “My All” is a fan favorite and is considered one of Carey’s signature songs.
13. ‘Touch My Body’ (2008)
“Touch My Body” is a song by Mariah Carey, released in 2008 as the lead single from her eleventh studio album “E=MC².” The song is a playful, up-tempo R&B track with a catchy melody and features Carey’s signature vocal style. The lyrics describe the anticipation of a romantic encounter, and the music video features Carey playfully teasing and flirting with a male love interest. The song was a commercial success, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning Carey her eighteenth number one hit, surpassing Elvis Presley’s record of seventeen. “Touch My Body” is a fun and flirty addition to Carey’s discography.
14. ‘Someday’ (1991)
“Someday” is a popular song by Mariah Carey, released in 1991. The song features a catchy, upbeat melody with a strong drum beat and funky guitar riffs. Its lyrics are about a woman rejecting the advances of a former lover who treated her poorly and moving on with confidence and self-respect. The music video for the song showcases Carey in a variety of stylish outfits, performing the song with a full band and backup dancers. “Someday” was a commercial success, peaking at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a classic example of Carey’s early 90s pop sound. It remains a popular and empowering anthem for anyone who has experienced a bad break-up.
15. ‘I Don’t Wanna Cry’ (1991)
“I Don’t Wanna Cry” is a song by Mariah Carey, released in 1991 as the third single from her self-titled debut album. The song is a powerful ballad with a slow, emotional melody and features Carey’s signature vocal acrobatics. The lyrics describe the pain and heartbreak of a failed relationship, and the music video features Carey expressing her emotions in a rain-soaked setting. The song was a commercial success, reaching number two on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning Carey a nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance at the 34th Annual Grammy Awards. “I Don’t Wanna Cry” is a timeless classic and showcases Carey’s incredible vocal range and emotional depth.
16. ‘Love Takes Time’ (1990)
“Love Takes Time” is a classic ballad by Mariah Carey, released in 1990. The song features a slow, soulful melody and showcases Carey’s powerful, emotive vocals. Its lyrics are about the pain of heartbreak and the slow process of healing and moving on. The music video for the song showcases Carey in a simple, understated setting, with a focus on her raw and vulnerable performance. “Love Takes Time” was a major commercial success, becoming Carey’s second number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning critical acclaim for its emotional resonance and vocal prowess. It remains a timeless example of Carey’s early ballad style and has remained a fan favorite for over three decades.
17. ‘Don’t Forget About Us’ (2005)
“Don’t Forget About Us” is a song by Mariah Carey, released in 2005 as the second single from her album “The Emancipation of Mimi”. The song is a mid-tempo ballad with a catchy melody and soulful vocals from Carey. It tells the story of a past relationship that the singer wishes to rekindle, and the lyrics express her feelings of nostalgia and longing. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning Carey a nomination for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance at the 49th Annual Grammy Awards. “Don’t Forget About Us” is a classic example of Carey’s signature sound and emotional depth.
18. ‘Heartbreaker’ (1999)
“Heartbreaker” is a hit song by Mariah Carey, released in 1999. The song features a catchy, upbeat melody with a prominent hip-hop influence, including a rap verse by Jay-Z. Its lyrics are about a woman confronting a cheating lover and confidently moving on. The music video for the song features Carey in a variety of glamorous outfits and settings, including a roller skating rink and a tropical island. “Heartbreaker” was a major commercial success, becoming Carey’s 14th number-one single on the Billboard Hot 100 and remaining a fan favorite for its fun, flirty attitude and infectious pop sound.
19. ‘Thank God I Found You’ (2000)
“Thank God I Found You” is a romantic ballad by Mariah Carey, featuring guest vocals from Joe and 98 Degrees. The song was released in 2000 as the lead single from Carey’s album “Rainbow”. It is a love song about finding true love after searching for so long, with the lyrics expressing gratitude for the special person in the singer’s life. The song’s melody is gentle and soothing, with Carey’s powerful vocals shining through. “Thank God I Found You” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of Carey’s most beloved songs.
20. The Roof
“The Roof” is a melancholic, introspective song by Mariah Carey, released in 1998. The song features a slow, atmospheric melody with a sample from “Shook Ones (Part II)” by Mobb Deep. Its lyrics are about a secret romantic encounter on a rooftop and the bittersweet memories that follow. The music video for the song showcases Carey in a glamorous, urban setting, with scenes of her on a rooftop with her love interest intercut with her alone in a rain-soaked car. “The Roof” was not a commercial single, but has remained a fan favorite and a testament to Carey’s emotive vocals and ability to convey complex emotions through music.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
