Mariah Carey stands tall as one of the world’s biggest ever pop stars, a title surely requiring no introduction for anyone familiar with the landscape of modern music. Her voice, her presence, and her extensive catalogue of hits have cemented her legendary status. While many instantly recognize her for the iconic holiday anthem that annually blankets the charts, her career spans decades filled with numerous popular and incredibly successful songs.
With the exciting news of a new album potentially on the horizon and the recent release of her song ‘Type Dangerous’, now is the perfect moment to delve into the immense success Mariah has cultivated over the years. Her body of work is vast, but certain songs stand out not just as fan favorites, but as certified commercial powerhouses.
Drawing upon data that reflects her global impact, mirrored by information from the RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America), we can explore the most successful songs from Mariah’s impressive repertoire. From genre-bending shifts to power ballads that tug at the heartstrings, this list highlights the tracks that have achieved significant milestones and continue to resonate with audiences. Let’s embark on a countdown, starting with a song that marked a notable evolution in her sound.
10. **Mariah Carey – ‘Honey’**Released in August 1997, ‘Honey’ arrived as a standout track on Mariah’s sixth studio album, ‘Butterfly’. This song immediately made waves, quickly climbing the charts to claim the highly coveted Number 1 spot in the United States. Its success was rapid and undeniable, achieving Platinum status within just one month of its release, signifying an impressive milestone of 1 million records sold.
What made ‘Honey’ particularly significant was its departure from Mariah’s previous work. The song showcased a totally different sound for the artist, boldly embracing a lot more R&B and hip-hop influences than listeners were accustomed to hearing from her. This stylistic shift demonstrated her versatility and willingness to experiment, paving the way for future explorations in genre and solidifying her position as a dynamic force in the music industry.
9. **Mariah Carey – ‘Hero’**’Hero’ remains one of Mariah Carey’s most well-known and undeniably memorable songs, a true staple in her extensive collection of hits. The beloved power ballad was first released in October 1993 and featured prominently on her third album, ‘Music Box’. The enduring popularity of the album was underscored by its re-release for its 30th anniversary, bringing this classic track to new generations of listeners.
The song’s commercial success was significant and enduring. It reached the Number 1 position in the United States, a testament to its immediate connection with audiences. Demonstrating its long-term impact and continued sales, ‘Hero’ was certified 2x Platinum, representing 2 million sales, 26 years after its initial release in October 2019. This delayed certification highlights the song’s incredible longevity and sustained appeal over decades.
Interestingly, ‘Hero’ wasn’t originally intended for Mariah herself. She initially wrote the song with the intention for Gloria Estefan to sing it for the soundtrack of the 1992 film ‘Hero’. However, as fate would have it, Mariah recorded it for herself instead, a decision that proved to be momentous. Today, ‘Hero’ is widely considered to be her signature song, an anthem of empowerment and resilience that has become synonymous with her name and legacy.
8. **Mariah Carey – ‘Obsessed’**Released in June 2009, ‘Obsessed’ served as one of the key singles from Mariah Carey’s 12th studio album, titled ‘Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel’. While it peaked at Number 7 on the US charts, not quite reaching the pinnacle like some of her other hits, its lasting popularity is clear. The song was certified 2x Platinum in July 2019, indicating substantial sales and streams over time, confirming its status as a song that has remained popular with her fanbase and beyond.
The inspiration behind ‘Obsessed’ offers a peek into Mariah’s cultural influences and sense of humor. According to her now-ex-husband Nick Cannon at the time, the song was inspired by one of Mariah’s favorite films, the hit comedy ‘Mean Girls’. The connection is even more direct, as the lyrics of the song’s catchy chorus famously take a line directly from the movie: ‘Why are you so obsessed with me?’.
Mariah also showcased her willingness to have fun and even poke fun at herself in the song’s accompanying music video. In a memorable creative choice, she starred in the video playing dual roles: herself and a male alter-ego. This playful approach added another layer to the song’s appeal and demonstrated her engaging personality, further cementing ‘Obsessed’ as a notable track in her discography.
7. **Mariah Carey – ‘Touch My Body’**’Touch My Body’ arrived in February 2008 as the powerful lead single from Mariah Carey’s 11th studio album, ‘E=MC²’. This track proved to be a major success right out of the gate, immediately hitting the top spot in the US charts. Its ascent to Number 1 was particularly significant, as it earned Mariah the prestigious record for the most Number 1 singles in United States history, a truly monumental achievement in her career.
Beyond its chart-topping debut, the song continued to perform strongly over time. It was certified 2x Platinum in July 2019 in the US, reflecting millions of units sold and streamed. The song also achieved Gold certification in the UK, signifying 400,000 sales in that market, demonstrating its international reach and popularity. These certifications underline the song’s considerable commercial success and widespread appeal across different territories.
Mariah injected a sense of lightheartedness and fun into the music video for ‘Touch My Body’, much like she did with ‘Obsessed’. The video stars actor Jack McBrayer from the popular TV show ’30 Rock’ as an IT technician. The narrative follows his character’s humorous daydream about being in a relationship with Mariah, adding a whimsical and entertaining element to the song’s visual representation and capturing the playful spirit of the track.
6. **Mariah Carey ft. Miguel – ‘#Beautiful’**In May 2013, Mariah Carey released ‘#Beautiful’, a collaboration featuring the acclaimed singer Miguel. This smooth and captivating track was included on her 14th studio album, ‘Me. I Am Mariah… The Elusive Chanteuse’. The song offered a fresh sound and proved to be a successful collaboration, blending Mariah’s signature vocals with Miguel’s distinct style, creating a track that resonated with audiences.
While it peaked at Number 15 on the US charts, it still achieved significant commercial milestones, highlighting its enduring popularity and sales performance. ‘#Beautiful’ was certified 2x Platinum in July 2017, four years after its release. This certification is a strong indicator of the song’s substantial success in terms of sales and equivalent streams over time, solidifying its place as one of Mariah’s most successful tracks, especially as a collaborative effort that expanded her musical landscape.
Stepping further into the remarkable discography of Mariah Carey, we now arrive at the upper echelon of her most successful songs, delving into the Top 5 tracks that have not only dominated charts but also cemented her legacy in music history. These are the hits that have resonated deeply with millions, achieving massive commercial success and leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. From infectious pop anthems to powerful ballads, these songs represent the pinnacle of her chart-topping career.
Continuing our countdown, we move from the solid performers in the lower half of the list to the true powerhouses, starting with a track that is instantly recognizable and beloved by her devoted fanbase and casual listeners alike. Its infectious energy and undeniable hook captured the zeitgeist upon its release and continue to do so decades later.
5. **Mariah Carey – ‘Fantasy’**It’s no surprise to see ‘Fantasy’ land firmly in the Top 5 of Mariah Carey’s most successful songs. Released in September 1995 as part of her fifth studio album, ‘Daydream,’ this track was an immediate sensation, soaring straight to the Number 1 spot in the United States. The song is a prime example of Mariah’s ability to blend pop sensibility with R&B and hip-hop influences, creating something truly unique and widely appealing.
‘Fantasy’ is particularly known for its prominent use of Mariah’s signature whistle register, a vocal technique that few can master and which adds an exhilarating flourish to the track. Beyond its vocal acrobatics, the song built its irresistible groove around a sample of ‘Genius of Love’ by the Tom Tom Club. This creative sampling choice was pivotal, giving ‘Fantasy’ a distinctive, upbeat foundation that set it apart and helped it become an instant classic.
The commercial success of ‘Fantasy’ has been nothing short of monumental and enduring. Its initial ascent to Number 1 underscored its immediate connection with audiences. Its lasting power is further evidenced by its 3x Platinum certification, achieved in October 2019, nearly 25 years after its release. This certification, representing 3 million sales, highlights the song’s remarkable sustained popularity and its status as a track that remains hugely beloved three decades on, continuing to generate sales and streams.
4. **Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men – ‘One Sweet Day’**A collaboration that brought together two of the biggest forces in 90s R&B and pop, ‘One Sweet Day’ featuring the acclaimed quartet Boyz II Men, stands as a landmark hit in Mariah Carey’s career. Released in November 1995, shortly after ‘Fantasy,’ this powerful ballad also featured on her fifth album, ‘Daydream.’ The union of Mariah’s soaring vocals with the impeccable harmonies of Boyz II Men created a song of immense emotional resonance that quickly captured the hearts of millions.
Lyrically, ‘One Sweet Day’ is a poignant tribute to lost loved ones, a theme that resonated universally and undoubtedly contributed to its widespread success and enduring impact. The heartfelt sentiment combined with the unparalleled vocal talent involved made it an incredibly moving and memorable track. It wasn’t just a commercial success; it was a cultural moment, a song many turned to for comfort and reflection.
The song’s chart performance was historic, hitting the coveted top spot in the US charts. Like ‘Fantasy,’ ‘One Sweet Day’ has demonstrated remarkable longevity. It was certified 3x Platinum in October 2019, the same month as ‘Fantasy,’ signifying 3 million sales. This joint certification date for two massive hits from the same album released within months of each other speaks volumes about the incredible success of the ‘Daydream’ era and the lasting power of this particular collaboration.
3. **Mariah Carey – ‘Always Be My Baby’**Considered by many to be one of Mariah Carey’s quintessential classic tracks, ‘Always Be My Baby’ was released in March 1996. It served as a promotional track from her hugely successful fifth album, ‘Daydream,’ further solidifying the album’s status as a powerhouse of hits. The song’s infectious melody, coupled with Mariah’s warm and inviting vocals, made it an instant radio favorite and a staple of her discography.
The track quickly ascended the charts, reaching Number 1 in the US, a testament to its undeniable appeal and the strong connection it forged with listeners. It’s the kind of song that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable, capturing the feeling of enduring love and connection. Its charm ensured its longevity beyond its initial chart run, remaining a fan favorite for decades.
The enduring cultural relevance of ‘Always Be My Baby’ is particularly noteworthy. The song was certified 3x Platinum in October 2019, underscoring its sustained sales and popularity years after its release. Furthermore, the track experienced a resurgence in popularity due to its use in modern media. British DJ Sigala sampled it in his 2016 single ‘Say You Do,’ introducing it to a new generation. Most notably, it served as the inspiration for the title of the popular 2019 Netflix film ‘Always Be My Maybe,’ starring Ali Wong and Randall Park, and was prominently featured on the film’s soundtrack, highlighting its lasting cultural footprint.
2. **Mariah Carey – ‘We Belong Together’**Released in March 2005, ‘We Belong Together’ arrived at a pivotal moment in Mariah Carey’s career and is widely considered a major comeback single. Featured on her tenth album, ‘The Emancipation of Mimi,’ the song reconnected Mariah with the R&B-infused sound that her fans adored, delivering a powerful ballad that felt both nostalgic and fresh. Its immediate success signaled a significant return to the top of the charts for the superstar.
The song’s chart performance was extraordinary, hitting Number 1 in the US with remarkable speed and staying power. Its dominance on the airwaves and sales charts led to it being cited by Billboard as the most successful song of the decade in 2010, a truly remarkable achievement that underscores its massive cultural and commercial impact. This wasn’t just a hit; it was *the* hit of the era for many.
‘We Belong Together’ achieved substantial sales milestones, being certified 4x Platinum in July 2019, representing 4 million units sold and streamed. This higher certification level compared to many of her other hits from the 90s reflects its immense popularity in the mid-2000s era and beyond. The song also garnered Mariah a multitude of nominations and awards, recognizing its critical acclaim alongside its commercial success, solidifying its place as one of her most important and successful singles.
1. **Mariah Carey – ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’**Landing at the undeniable Number 1 spot on the list of Mariah Carey’s most successful songs of all time is, perhaps unsurprisingly, ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You.’ Released in 1994 on her fourth album, ‘Merry Christmas,’ a collection that also featured her covers of various traditional holiday songs, this track has transcended being just a hit single to become a global phenomenon and a cornerstone of the holiday season.
What makes the story of this song’s success particularly fascinating is its unique chart journey. Despite its immense popularity from the moment it was released, the song never reached Number 1 in the US during its initial run, primarily due to chart rules at the time regarding holiday releases. However, as rules changed and streaming became a dominant force, the song experienced an annual, unstoppable ascent, finally claiming the highly deserved Number 1 spot in December 2019, 25 years after its debut.
The song’s cultural impact is unparalleled, annually blanketing the charts and becoming synonymous with the festive period worldwide. Its enduring appeal is a testament to Mariah’s goal when writing it. As she shared in November 2023, “When I first wrote it, I wanted it to be timeless. I didn’t want it to be something that felt like a specific year – I wanted it to be something that I could have heard as a little kid growing up.” This timeless quality has paid off immensely.
Beyond its chart performance and cultural ubiquity, ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ is also a financial juggernaut. While exact figures are often kept private, estimates suggest it earns an astounding amount in royalties each year. One widely circulated estimate from 2021 put its annual earnings at around £376,000. To put that in perspective, while this is a significant sum, it was estimated to be less than some other classic Christmas hits from acts like Slade (£500,000+) or The Pogues (£400,000), though still vastly out-earning others like Wham! (£300,000) or Paul McCartney (£260,000) in certain estimations. Regardless of the exact figure, the consistent, substantial passive income makes it easily her most commercially successful song.
The song’s status as a modern classic was further highlighted in November 2023 when Mariah was immortalized as a Barbie doll, specifically wearing a red, sequined dress inspired by her outfit in the second music video for the song. This level of recognition underscores just how deeply ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ is embedded in global pop culture, solidifying its place not just as Mariah’s most successful song, but as one of the most successful songs of all time across any genre.
And there you have it – a look at the songs that define Mariah Carey’s chart dominance and enduring appeal. From the R&B-infused grooves of ‘Honey’ to the global holiday phenomenon that is ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You,’ her discography is packed with hits that have broken records and captured generations of listeners. Her ability to blend genres, deliver powerful vocals, and connect with audiences on an emotional level has cemented her status as an icon. As she continues to tease new music and influence the industry, one thing is clear: Mariah Carey’s reign in the world of pop and R&B is a testament to the power of exceptional talent and timeless music.
