Nina West

One hit of your love addicted me w3KOowB4k_k 11. Honey | 8.714 Highest Scores: 11: (Nina West, elgornio), 10: (Davidson, Jade, Jay, AaronTM), Lowest Scores: 6: (Herbs) Just outside the top 10 at #11 is Honey, released in July 1997 as the lead single from Mariah's 6th studio album Butterfly & samples "Hey DJ" by World-Famous Supreme Team and "The Body Rock" by the Treacherous Three. The song was written and produced by Mariah, Sean Combs, Kamaal "Q-Tip" Fareed and Steven "Stevie J" Jordan. It also redefined her career, pushing Mariah further into the hip hop scene. The song served as the first single after the separation from her estranged husband Tommy Motola. Due to the urban crossover success of her previous album 'Daydream', Mariah began exerting more control over the creative aspects of her career. By pursing a more hip hop oriented sound & began looking for more hip-hop/R&B producers to helm part of her new project. Mariah worked with Puff Daddy on the track, but due to his overbearing nature, she recorded her vocals separately & re-did her vocals many times until she felt that they were perfect. Upon release the song was acclaimed by music critics & became her 3rd single to debut at the #1 spot in the USA, setting a record for most singles to debut at #1, a record she held for 23 years, until it was broken by Ariana Grande. Elsewhere it also managed to top the charts in Canada & hit top 10 peaks in Australia, New Zealand, Hungary, Poland, Spain, Sweden and the UK. The song was nominated for 2 Grammy Awards for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance and Best R&B Song. Mariah certainly made her declaration for independence with this stunning R&B number that beautifully blended hip-hop grooves with an infectious pop hook that lingers in your mind long after its finished. The laid back melodies combined with the staccato piano lines, thumping bass & the clever use of those samples showcases the artist in a new musical setting that's not only cleverly done, but still felt familiar to long time fans. The vocals are charming yet seductive, along with those effortless ab-libs & shows how confident Mariah is as an artist. Then there's of course that cinematic blockbuster music video, an epic masterpiece (that goes to the song as well). This is definitely one of Mariah's best singles of her career.

The next to drop will be a lead single from the 90's, any guesses?

I don't want another pretender To disillusion me one more time CqBtS6BIP1E 12. Dreamlover | 8.714 Highest Scores: 11: (JackTheeStallion), 10: (Nina West, Davidson, elgornio, rafik4u, Jay), Lowest Scores: 6: (Herbs) At #12 is the fantastic Dreamlover, released in July 1993 as the lead single from Mariah's 3rd studio album Music Box & incorporates a sample of the hook from "Blind Alley" by the Emotions—previously used in "Ain't No Half-Steppin'" (1988) by Big Daddy Kane - into its melody and instrumentation. The song's lyrics were written by Mariah, with music composed by herself & Dave Hall, along with co-production by both & Walter Afanasieff. This song marked a more pronounced attempt on Mariah's part to incorporate hip hop into her music, as was seen in her decision to work with Dave Hall, who had previously produced Mary J Blige's 'What's The 411". This decision was due to the mixed reception her previous album "Emotions" got. Upon release the song was a global smash, becoming her 7th chart topper on the US Billboard charts, remaining there for 8 weeks. Elsewhere it topped the charts in Canada & Panama, as well as top 10 peaks in Australia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Portugal & the UK. Despite having the most singles ranked in the top 20 with 4, but none of the 'Music Box' singles managed to rank in the top 10 here with 'Dreamlover' being the final to drop out. One of Mariah's most ethereal singles to date, beginning with the trademark whistle notes, then a fantastic slick R&B beats drops backed by gentle bass & guitar riff, all of which creates a breezy atmosphere. The chorus is light and bouncy, where Mariah delivers strong yet confident vocal which soars over the harmonies. All of which creates a chilled out vibe that's perfect for the summer. This is a stunning number that shows Mariah at her upmost peak.

Ready for another

'Cause they be all up in my business like a Wendy interview 9b8erWuBA44 13. Touch My Body | 8.547 Highest Scores: 10: (gooddelta, elgornio, Josh, Liam.k., JosephStyles, rafik4u, Jay), Lowest Scores: 4: (Jessie Where) At #13 is Touch My Body, released in February 2008 as the lead single from Mariah's 11th studio album E=MC2. The song was written & produced by Mariah, Tricky Stewart, Crystal "Cri$tyle" Johnson and Terius "The-Dream" Nash. The album was hailed as one of the most anticipated albums of 2008, with many critics weighing their opinions on whether Carey would be able to deliver significant success, following her achievements with 'The Emancipation of Mimi'. 'Touch My Body' was eventually chosen as the lead single through a vote between the record executives at Island Records, with the other choice being "I'm That Chick" then titled (I'm That Chick You Like). Upon release the song gained generally positive reviews, although it also garnered some backlash from certain music reviewers, who felt the song did not properly represent the singer's acclaimed 5-octave vocal range. Despite this it became Mariah's 18th #1 hit on the US Billboard charts, making Mariah the solo artist with the most number one singles in United States history, surpassing the record held by Elvis Presley. Worldwide it was also successful by reaching top 5 peaks in Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland & in the UK where it became her final top 10 hit to date. Mariah doesn't have to use her full octave range to make a great song, as this cute playful little bop proves where her vocal delivery on this is more breathy and restrained set against the laid back grooves. This is a smooth mid-tempo R&B song with simple piano melodies and catchy rhythms with one hell of a memorable hook that really drives the whole thing. I also like how she delivers the rapid fire verses & then slows things down to warn her lover. This is just a fun song with an iconic music video & just goes to show that not every song has to have some deep and meaningful message & sometimes it's okay just to let loose and have fun.

You always smile but in your eyes your sorrow shows Hat1Hc9SNwE 14. Without You | 8.476 Highest Scores: 11: (vibe), 10: (Nina West, Bjork, Jord, rafik4u, Jay, Qween), Lowest Scores: 5: (Jessie Where, Jade) At #14 is perhaps Mariah's biggest cover version Without You, which was originally sung by Badfinger back in 1970 & then was more famously covered again in 1971 by Harry Nilsson, the version of which Mariah's cover is based on. Released in January 1994 as the 3rd single from Mariah's 3rd studio album Music Box. It's US release date came a week after Harry Nilsson died of an heart attack. Mariah's decision to remake his hit version was based on a chance hearing during the recording sessions for 'Music Box' & after hearing it she stated that she knew that it would be a huge international hit. In the USA the song was promoted as a double a-side with "Never Forget You". Upon release the song reached a #3 peak on the US Billboard charts. Worldwide it remains Mariah's biggest global hit by topping the charts in several countries such as Austria, Belgium, Germany, Ireland, Netherlands, New Zealand, Sweden, Switzerland & in the UK where it became her first #1 there & elsewhere it managed to reach top 5 & top 10 peaks in almost every country it charted in. Mariah's version of this track remains controlled, respectful and yet at the same time delivers a timeless epic ballad. The success she had with this cover more or less became the blueprint for her career going forward, as she would often release a cover version from several albums that preceded this, sometimes they were great, sometimes they were dire. The arrangements gives this a romantic yet dramatic sound backed by a piano and gentle keyboard notes where Mariah gets plenty of space for her vocals to reach those high notes and just soar when the magnificent chorus. This was Mariah's first and greatest cover version & a timeless classic for the ages.

Seeing right through you like you're bathing in Windex H1Yt0xJKDY8 15. Obsessed | 8.428 Highest Scores: 11: (liam.k.), 10: (elgornio, JosephStyles, rafik4u, Qween, AaronTM), Lowest Scores: 5.5/5: (Nina West, dandy*) At #15 is Obsessed, released in June 2009 as the lead single from Mariah's 12th studio album Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel. The song was written & produced by Mariah, Tricky Stewart and The-Dream and lyrically describes her dilemma regarding constant claims of a prior relationship from rapper Eminem, although he is not specifically mentioned. At the time of its release the song was the center of controversy, as critics & the media suggested that she was aiming at Eminem, who had claimed that they were in a relationship at one point & had negatively referenced her in some of his songs. Upon release the song peaked at #7 on the US Billboard charts, becoming her 27th top 10 hit there & would be her last until a certain classic X-Mas song would finally reach the top 10. Worldwide the song wasn't released in certain parts of Europe, as Island Records decided to release the 2nd single 'I Want To Know What Love Is' instead. But did find success in some countries by reaching top 10 peaks in France & Italy, as well as hitting top 20 peaks in Australia, Belgium, Canada & Japan. In the UK it was lined up for an August release, but got pushed back several times & was ultimately cancelled, despite heavy radio & airplay. The song managed a #52 peak there after the album was released due to digital downloads. In 2019, the song became viral due to a TikTok challenge, which caused it to surge in popularity again & even got a response from Mariah herself. This has never been one of my fave Mariah singles, probably due to the awful auto-tune spoiling it for me, but even I could admit that this deserved far more than its mere #52 peak in the UK, I know was down to it's physical release getting cancelled, which to this day I still don't understand why. Now I do like the concept of this mid-tempo bop with the bass notes giving the sound a grander scale, set alongside simple beats & repetitive handclaps which does get a little monotonous at times. Plus this could have done with switching up the melody a little more in places could have balanced things out a little more. The remixes this track got were really good though, especially the Cahill & the Friscia & Lamboy radio mixes, both of which were included on the album & in my opinion the latter could have been used as the main single mix.

The next to drop will be a lead single Any guesses?

Seeking faith and speaking words LKaXY4IdZ40 16. When You Believe (ft Whitney Houston) | 8.238 Highest Scores: 10: (Simon, Lukuzz, Jord, Qween, AaronTM), Lowest Scores: 4: (Davidson) At #16 is the Whitney & Mariah duet When You Believe, a song made for the 1998 DreamWorks musical animated feature 'The Prince of Egypt'. The song was written & composed by Stephen Schwartz. A pop version of the track with additional music & lyrics by Babyface. Released in November 1998, it not only served as the soundtrack's lead single but also featured on both Whitney's 4th studio album My Love is Your Love & Mariah's compilation album #1's. The original version of the song that featured in the movie itself was sung by Sally Dworsky, Michelle Pfeiffer, and a children's choir. The movie's producer Jeffery Katzenberg was the one who approached both Whitney & Mariah to do the duet, by telling them both that the other had already agreed to do it & by the time they found out, both artists had already been committed to the project. Upon release the song was a moderate success in the USA by reaching a #15 peak, despite heavy media attention and live promotion. However elsewhere it achieved much bigger success by reaching top 5 peaks in Belgium, France, Iceland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland & UK. The song went onto to win an Academy Award for Best Original Song at the Oscars. However there was some controversy due to Schwartz leaving out Babyface out of the writing credits due to his version only been used at the end credits & not in the movie itself. A big soaring power ballad by two of the greatest female singers of all-time, that might have been regarded as a step backwards had either of them recorded it individually. But together, they created something wonderful and magical. The fact that these 2 artists came together was a feat within itself, given the rumoured rivalry throughout the 90's (which was never really proven) & when both were asked they kinda threw some light shade at each other or just brushed it off altogether. Both Whitney & Mariah sound fantastic on this with Whitney's deep rich tones that grounds the song while Mariah handles the 2nd verse with her trademark style of vocal runs and the increase of her higher register before they both belt out the chorus, blending and harmonizing beautifully. Then there's of course that key change moment with addition of the gospel choir, followed by soaring vocals & soulful riffs, making this collaboration an almighty triumph. This may not be the best of either artists discography, but its still a great song.

Look inside you and be strong 0IA3ZvCkRkQ 17. Hero | 8.214 Highest Scores: 11: (Nina West, Jord), 10: (JosephStyles), Lowest Scores: 6/6.5: (Davidson, Simon, elgornio) At #17 is one of my all-time faves Hero, released in October 1993 as the 2nd single from Mariah's 3rd studio album Music Box. The song was written and produced by Mariah and Walter Afanasieff. Originally Gloria Estefan recorded the song for the soundtrack of the movie of the same name, after Mariah didn't connect to its style or sound. However after being convinced by Tommy Mottola to keep it, she changed some of the lyrics to more precisely fit her personality. The song has been regarded as one of her most inspirational and personal ballads of her career, and remains as one of her most performed songs. Deemed by many as her signature song. Upon release it became a huge global success by becoming her 8th #1 on the US Billboard charts, as well as top 5 peaks in Canada, France, Ireland, New Zealand and Norway, and top 10 peaks in UK, Australia & Netherlands. In 2001 following the 9/11 attacks, Mariah re-recorded the song as a mash up single titled "Never Too Far/Hero Medley", where it peaked at #81 on the US Billboard charts. The song won the awards for "Rhythm & Soul Songwriter" at the ASCAP Awards & the following year won awards for "Rhythm & Soul Songwriter" and "Pop Songwriter". The song was awarded a BMI Pop Award at the ceremony in 1995. As well as being nominated for a Grammy for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. A firm iconic classic from Mariah's discography. Flawless, sentimental and uplifting, its the kind of empowerment ballad that defines an artist. The song begins with Mariah's vocals pitched against a piano, as the bass and light percussion gradually builds and delivers one of her most powerful vocal performances. There is no doubt that Mariah excels at a ballad and this one is one of her most memorable and enduring. Everything is enhanced by the vocals and soaring melodies with the track flowing perfectly along with her. The song has provided strength to many people across the world (including myself) and its not hard to see why, its simply amazing. This deserves to rank much higher on here, but at least its got a decent average and its something that will always have a special place in my heart.

A big ONE's gonna drop next, any guesses?

I promise that I won't forget the milk and cookies G2bx3FzgJ6o 18. Oh Santa (ft Ariana Grande & Jennifer Hudson) | 8.075 Highest Scores: 10: (JosephStyles, rafik4u), Lowest Scores: 5: (Nina West) We're finally getting to the 8 averages now in at #18 is the 2nd version of Oh Santa. Mariah re-recorded a new version of this song for its 10th anniversary. The new version features vocals from Ariana Grande & Jennifer Hudson. Released in December 2020 as the lead single from Mariah's second soundtrack album, Mariah Carey's Magical Christmas Special. Upon release the new remixed version received positive reviews & actually fared better on the charts than the original version did by peaking at #76 on the US Billboard charts, surpassing the original version's peak of #100 & reaching a #50 on the UK singles chart, making this the first time any version of this song has charted there, as well as charting in several other countries such as Canada, Germany & Sweden. I do actually find this version an improvement over the original with the girl group arrangement giving a fresher take on this fun little bop, adding more variety, such as Ariana's soft harmonizing vocals, Jennifer's belting powerhouse vocals set against Mariah's vocal acrobatics. Each of them adds something different which can throw off the dynamics of the song a little bit at times, but there's enough to enjoy here. Don't think this will ever reach the heights of X-Mas classic (since Mariah already has one of those), however its still a good effort & maybe in a couple of years, this could find more love and appreciation.

Santa's gonna come and make him mine this Christmas night Y5zaQ_vIAHE 19. Oh Santa | 7.9 Highest Scores: 10: (Jord), Lowest Scores: 5.5/5: (Nina West, vibe) At #19 is the first version of Oh Santa, released in October 2010 as the lead single from Mariah's 2nd Christmas album & 13th studio album Merry Christmas II You. Mariah wrote and produced the song in collaboration with Jermaine Dupri and Bryan-Michael Cox. Upon release the song received a positive response from music critics, with many praising its composition and style. In the USA it became a record breaking entry on the Billboard Adult Contemporary songs chart by topping the charts in its 2nd week & charted high on most of its component charts. The song finally managed to crack the US Top 100 in January 2011 by peaking at #100, making this Mariah's 40th entry on the Billboard Hot 100. The song was later adapted to be the finale of 'A Christmas Special', a 2015 Hallmark Channel X-Mas movie. Mariah would re-record and re-release the song 10 years after its release, but more on that later... This frantic but rather festive little bop works perfectly as a Christmas song. Brimming with energy, quick fire verses, sassy back up singers and a earworm chanting chorus. While this in no way compares to Mariah's other iconic festive classic or will ever surpass its success, its still a fun little bop, but I wouldn't rank it this high. I do feel that this does try a little too hard to recapture that said song's magic, which obviously failed as this was very overlooked upon its original release, despite the rave reviews. Personally I've never really connected with this, its fine but nothing amazing.

When the shadows are closing in And your spirit diminishing Li6vpAMmfw0 20. Anytime You Need A Friend | 7.833 Highest Scores: 10: (Nina West, Jord), Lowest Scores: 5: (rafik4u) Kicking off the top 20 is Anytime You Need A Friend, released in May 1994 as the 5th and final single from Mariah's 3rd studio album Music Box. The song was written and produced by Mariah and Walter Afanasieff, and is influenced by pop, R&B and gospel genres. The album itself focused heavily on pop oriented and radio friendly material, this song deviated from the formula, finishing as the only gospel-infused song on the album. Upon release the song was well received by contemporary music critics and achieved strong charting positions worldwide. In the USA it reached a #12 peak, her first to miss the top 10 there, but fared much better elsewhere with top 5 peaks in Canada & New Zealand, as well as top 10 peaks in UK, Iceland & Netherlands. This would be one of the very few times that one of Mariah's singles would chart higher in the UK than in the USA. A brilliant track that quite rightfully earned Mariah another much deserved top 10 hit. This has been noted as Mariah's own favourite track of 'Music Box' & its not hard to see why as it's one of the few on there where she really gets to show off her mammoth vocal range without losing sight of the song's meaning. The blend of Mariah's inspirational vocals contrasts beautifully with the gospel choir, allowing her to focus on hitting some incredibly high notes with the strength of the choir behind her. A fitting end to the "Music Box" campaign & talk about ending the era with an almighty bang.

Just before the top 20 countdown begins, here's a reminder of what's remaining from each era: Mariah Carey – 1/5 Emotions – 1/3 Music Box – 4/5 Merry Christmas/II You – 2/3 Daydream – 2/6 Butterfly – 2/5 Rainbow – 1/5 Glitter – 0/3 Charmbracelet – 0/4 The Emancipation of Mimi – 2/6 E-MC2 –1/4 Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel – 1/5 Me I Am Mariah –1/4 Caution – 0/2 Greatest Hits –1/4 Other – 1/9

Time for another results re-cap 21-30: 21. Big Energy (Remix) (ft Latto & DJ Khaled) - 7.761 22. Butterfly - 7.666 23. Get Your Number (ft Jermaine Dupri) - 7.619 24. Someday - 7.595 25. Make It Happen - 7.571 26. Through The Rain - 7.547 27. Don't Forget About Us - 7.547 28. One Sweet Day (ft Boyz II Men) - 7.425 29. Love Takes Time - 7.38 30. I'll Be There (ft Trey Lorenz) - 7.357

Can't skip foreplay, kill the kitty cold case (Uh-huh) avkjRwVuY3Y 21. Big Energy (Remix) (ft Latto & DJ Khaled) | 7.761 Highest Scores: 11: (Simon, JosephStyles), 10: (JackTheeStallion), Lowest Scores: 5: (Qween) Just outside the top 20 at #21 is Mariah's latest release to date Big Energy, a song by American rapper Latto & was released in September 2021 as the lead single from her second studio album 777. A remixed version featuring Mariah & DJ Khaled was later released in March 2022, with an interpolation of Mariah's song "Fantasy", which also heavily samples "Genius of Love". Latto has stated that she first conceived the idea of having American singer Mariah Carey on the remix back in November 2021. Although she was her first option, she didn't think she'd accept. Upon release the song in both forms became a huge success by reaching a #3 peak on the US Billboard charts, making this Latto's first top 10 hit. It also managed top 10 peaks in Australia & Canada, top 20 in Ireland & New Zealand as well as a top 30 peak in the UK, earning Mariah her 40th top 40 hit there.. The remixed version of the song was nominated for the Song of the Summer Award at the 2022 MTV Video Music Awards, earning Mariah her first nomination at the ceremony in fourteen years since "Touch My Body" in 2008. I'm actually SHOCKED that this has ranked so high on here, given that its so recent & the fact that its beaten so many other great songs. Anyway this is a decent collaboration where Mariah's sample of 'Fantasy' is used effectively here & tastefully upstages Latto's rap verses, but Latto does manage to keep up, thanks to the sparkling production & catchy melodies. DJ Khaled's contribution is rather annoying & barely adds anything to this number. While it was nice for Mariah to be featured on a hit single again, I only wish her part was bigger & a lot more prominent.

Let's get this to another page...

Wild horses run unbridled or their spirit dies stcdNj0SANw 22. Butterfly | 7.666 Highest Scores: 10: (Jay), Lowest Scores: 5: (Bjork, dandy*) At #22 & matching it's UK peak is Butterfly, released in September 1997 as the 2nd single from Mariah's 6th studio album of the same name. The song was written and produced by Mariah & Walter Afanasieff. The track had originally been conceived as a house music record with David Morales titled "Fly Away" (Butterfly Reprise). After it was finished, Marish felt that there was something more she could do with it, as the lyrics were very personal and a perfect fit for a ballad. Mariah decided to re-write "Fly Away" in a ballad form, and incorporated new lyrics and vocals. Resulting in 'Butterfly' and became Mariah's favourite and most heartfelt ballad. Upon release, due to an ongoing conflict with Columbia, the song wasn't issued a commercial release in the USA, which hindered any chances of it making any impact on the charts. Elsewhere it's success was very limited with a top 20 peak in New Zealand, as well as top 40 peaks in Canada, UK, Sweden & Australia. In 2003 Q Magazine ranked "Butterfly" at number 563 in their list of the "1001 Best Songs Ever". Yet another underrated gem in Mariah's discography, as it's definitely one of her finest ballads. This seemed like a natural progression from her previous ballads at the time, with that added warm resonance to her tones, conveying sadness & vulnerability, but once she hits that soaring chorus, it gives up that uplifting feeling with lyrics that reflected her maturity as a songwriter. Shame that this ended her run of 12 top 10 hits in the UK, as this should have easily been another smash hit, but got lost in the X-Mas shuffle of that year. This is a beautiful ballad through and through.

Shakira - She Wolf

The Saturdays - Just Can't Get Enough

I got a house in Capri and my own G4 and a Benz with the doors that lift up from the floor yvoWWtynalI 23. Get Your Number (ft Jermaine Dupri) | 7.619 Highest Scores: 10: (AaronTM), Lowest Scores: 6: (Bjork, vibe, rafik4u, dandy*) At #23 is Get Your Number, released in October 2005 as the 4th single from Mariah's 10th studio album The Emancipation of Mimi & features American rapper Jermaine Dupri. It was written by Mariah, Jermaine, Johntá Austin and Bryan-Michael Cox, and produced by the former two and LRoc. The song is built around a sample of the 1982 song "Just An Illusion" by Imagination. Upon release the song received mixed reviews & was released as the album's 3rd single throughout Europe, where it reached top 10 peaks in Finland, Netherlands & UK, where it was released as a double a-side alongside "Shake It Off". Elsewhere it also managed top 20 peaks in Australia, Switzerland & Ireland as well as top 40 peaks in 7 other countries. A good little club banger from the early 00's & one of my fave tracks from the album with its fun production that uses synthesizers which gives it an almost 80's sounding, catchy hooks & Mariah's confident vocals whose in full diva mode here as she brags about her material possessions in a tongue in cheek way. Even Jermaine's ab-libs adds a nice touch to the track & alongside Mariah proves to be a winning formula. Sure this doesn't quite rank as one of Mariah's all-time best, but not every song has to be & instead its a solid playful little bop that rightfully gave her a UK top 10 hit.

Ready for another....

It's not hard to predict this ending now 4RWfSUWVP2I 24. Someday | 7.595 Highest Scores: 10: (Josh), Lowest Scores: 4/4.5: (Bjork, Herbs) At #24 is Mariah's first ever up-tempo track Someday, released in November 1990 as the 3rd single from Mariah's self-titled debut album Mariah Carey. The song was written and produced by Mariah & Ben Margulies. This song one of Mariah's earliest recordings as it was included on her four-track demo and she reached out to Ric Wake to ask if he would produce the song. The original demo recording was changed during the recording process, most notably replacing the horns with a guitar, which Mariah disapproved of. Upon release the song became Mariah's 3rd consecutive chart topper on the US Billboard charts. Elsewhere it managed a top 5 peaks in Canada & Iceland, top 20 in New Zealand, top 40 peaks in France & UK as well as top 50 peaks in Australia & Belgium. Another fantastic yet underrated bop from Mariah's early days with its amped up new jack swing production and utterly infectious joyous beats, catchy hooks & of course Mariah's vocals which soars over everything with such euphoric passion. Coming after 2 ballads in a row, this was the perfect single choice to fully showcase Mariah's range as an artist & breathed new life into the era. Okay the guitar solo bit may age it a little, but who cares this is a fantastic upbeat bop that deserves a hell of a lot more love.

I held on to my faith, I struggled and I prayed -Q6xx0JfMBI 25. Make It Happen | 7.571 Highest Scores: 11: (Qween), 10: (Davidson, elgornio), Lowest Scores: 3.5: (Bjork) At #25 is Make It Happen, released in April 1992 as the 3rd and final single from Mariah's 2nd studio album Emotions. The song was written and produced by Mariah and C+C Music Factory's David Cole and Robert Clivillés. Lyrically it tells of her personal struggles prior to her rise to fame, and how her faith in God helped sustain her. Upon release the song received critical praise & despite a strong promotional boost it could only manage a #5 peak on the US Billboard charts, which was seen as a slight underperformance at the time, given that all of her previous singles went top 2 & did very little to help sales of the album, which was why no other singles were released. "And You Don't Remember" was considered as the next single, but was scrapped. Elsewhere it charted weakly by reaching top 10 in Canada, top 40 peaks in UK & Australia, but failed to reach the top 50 in Netherlands & Germany. This was a great single choice from 'Emotions' a firm highlight, with its upbeat inspirational lyrics & gorgeous gospel arrangements that injects a high dose of energy into the album itself & succeeds far better with its message than 'There's Got To Be A Way' (which had a similar vibe) did from the first album. The wandering basslines, elegant grooves and soaring melodies really sells the narrative without being too in your face or wordy. The gospel influences and heavenly backing vocals really elevates the production and makes this a firm highlight from Mariah's early days.