Friday 25 October 2002

MTV special taped in NY

Ten years ago Mariah Carey taped a MTV Unplugged concert. Upon airing it was one of the highest rating specials at the time, proving that the lady really could sing. Also released as an EP, it was certified multi-platinum and spawned the No. 1 single "I'll Be There". Today in New York Carey was taping a similar special for MTV; this time though it's airing will coincide with the December 3rd release of her new album "Charmbracelet".

Competition winners filled the audience, listening attentively to Carey's stunning performance of six songs, new and old. She opened the show with new track "Boy (I Need You)" featuring rapper Cam'ron. This hip-hop groove has hit written all over it and is reminiscent of Carey's other chart topping uptempo grooves.

"Yours", a smooth RnB track was performed next. *NSync-er Justin Timberlake has reportedly recorded vocals to make this track a duet. However, he was a no show at MTV and Carey went solo. It wasn't long though before rapper and close friend Da Brat joined her onstage to perform the No. 1 smash "Heartbreaker". Just as Brat left the stage, a track featuring another friend of Carey began. "The One" featuring Jermaine Dupri is equally as funky, if not more, than their numerous efforts in the past. While Dupri didn't appearance himself, his signature sounds bounced throughout the song.

The performance that really brought the house down was that of "Through The Rain", Carey's current single which is already heating up the airwaves. In what was her first public live performance of the ballad, she belted the meaningful lyrics out with all she had. The awe-struck audience sang along with the star, much to her enjoyment.

Interestingly, Carey finished the show with two of her earlier hits, perhaps to remind the world of what she once was, and ultimately what people will realise she still is. "Make It Happen" from her 1992 album "Emotions" got the crowd on its feet, singing and dancing along to the upbeat number. It was followed by her 1990 debut single "Vision of Love", an ingenious song that started it all for the NYC girl who had a lot of talent and even more determination.

There were no signs of the demanding diva so often reported in the media. Carey even became shy at one point when the audience chanted "Mariah, Mariah, Mariah". Artist and fan seemed to adore each other equally, which isn't exactly what you'd call common in the music industry. If tonight's performance is anything to go by, Carey seems to be on track for an incredible comeback. With her album already being critically acclaimed after only a handful of preview listening parties and a TV special that proves the lady still can sing, there is no reason why she shouldn't be back on top in no time. Some may even say she never left. Either way, Carey has proved she's moved on from her recent troubles; now she can only hope the media and general public can carey on also.

Many thanks to Mariah Downunder.



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