Commotion with Elamin Abdelmahmoud Mariah Carey's new album, and why she's still one of the most iconic singers of our time
Oct 8, 2025
Michael Blackmon, a culture writer and comments editor at The Washington Post, dives into Mariah Carey's new album 'Here For It All' and her enduring legacy. He discusses how the title track reflects personal losses, offering a rawer, more intimate sound. The conversation highlights the impact of 'Vision of Love' and how Mariah's live performance on MTV Unplugged silence critics. Blackmon also explores her creative struggles with Columbia and her monumental resurgence with 'Emancipation of Mimi', showing how she influenced today's pop divas.
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Vulnerability Strengthens Her Sound
- Michael says the album closer blends Mariah's signature vocal acrobatics with raw vulnerability.
- He highlights grief motifs tied to her mother and sister as central emotional fuel for the song.
Raw Voice Adds Storytelling Depth
- Pablo argues the less polished vocal moments reveal a more human Mariah and add narrative depth.
- He sees this rawness as an intentional choice that enriches her legacy.
Vision Of Love Inspired A Singer
- Tanika describes 'Vision of Love' as a flawless early performance that inspired her singing.
- She credits Mariah's tone, range, and whistle register as catalytic for her own artistic ambitions.