Looking Back on Mariah Carey’s Most Uplifting Tunes

mariah carey

Mariah Carey’s one of the most talented, brilliant artists in the music industry. Each and every song of hers arrives with a wide spectrum of emotions that hook you from the very beginning. And speaking of her emotional numbers, Carey is also celebrated for her motivational, uplifting tunes. Since she emerged in the music scene in the early 1990s, she’s garnered a lot of attention, leaving pretty much the world in awe of her stellar talent. So, we decided to track back and pick out some of her loveliest tunes that still burn bright during these difficult times.

  1. ‘Hero’

It’s hard to believe that so many years have gone by since this song was first released. But as they say, old but gold. This song featured in Carey’s 1993 album, ‘Music Box’ and over the years, she’s performed this inspirational tune on a number of occasions. More recently, she performed this tune live from home to honour all the frontline workers during this global coronavirus pandemic. Perhaps some of the most poignant lines from this tune are:

Look inside you and be strong
And you’ll finally see the truth
That a hero lies in you


And that’s something to always remember during difficult times.

2.  ‘Anytime you Need A Friend’

The album, ‘Music Box’ also witnessed yet another charming tune titled, ‘Anytime you Need A Friend’.  Lyrically, the song’s protagonist tells her love interest that anytime he may need a friend, she will be there unconditionally for him. Well, that’ a lovely message right there. Once again, take a look at some of the lines from the lyrics:


When the shadows are closing in
And your spirit diminishing
Just remember you’re not alone
And love will be there
To guide you home


Carey’s way of penning down anxieties and hopeful messages is truly laudable. 

3. ‘ Fly Like A Bird’ 

‘ Fly Like A Bird’ found its space on Mariah Carey’s tenth studio album, ‘The Emancipation of Mimi’. The song sees a spectrum of different genres from Gospel to R&B to Soul. In fact, this tune is more of a prayer than a song, as it includes a reading of two verses from the Bible. It’s a tune that speaks of tranquility and peace, something every single person is looking for right now. 

4.  ‘ Through the Rain’

This song featured on Carey’s ninth studio album. The star recieved a lot of praise for its inspirational lyrical content, and the tune’s been often described as an open window into Carey’s personal life. This is clearly reflected in the lyrics:

And when the wind blows, as shadows grow close
Don’t be afraid, there’s nothing you can’t face
And should they tell you you’ll never pull through
Don’t hesitate, stand tall and say, I can make it through the rain

Once again, this song joins many of Carey’s other self-love anthems. This tune encourages self-acceptance and pushes one to keep moving forward, even if they fall. No matter how much you’re judged for your behavior and actions, Carey’s here to tell you to pick yourself up and stay strong. 

By: Nina Karun

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