In commemoration of Mariah Carey's impending 18th #1 single, I have decided to examine her past 17 #1's, from her debut "Vision of Love" to "Don't Forget About Us". Here it is:
"Vision of Love" (1990) - It was with this gem that a star was born. Her debut single was everything a debut should be, bombastic, affecting, and memorable. From her powerful vocal flourishes to her unbelievable whistle register, "Vision of Love" made the desired impact; her self-titled debut album sold a staggering 9 million copies in the US and she received two Grammys. It is still, even today, one of her best songs (if it was re-released, it would definitely be a "Download of the Day". Rating: 10/10
"Love Takes Time" (1990) - The follow-up to her blockbuster debut was a great ballad for sure, and once again, that impeccable voice got a proper showcase, but it seemed like a step-down for the diva. 18 years after it was released, it's song you have to dig deep in your memory to recall. Rating: 7.5/10
"Someday" (1991) - This song was Mariah's first foray into the upbeat
style of music. It's one of my personal favorites, mostly because it's an example of the passion and conviction critics say is lacking in Mariah's voice. Plus, its a really fun song to listen to. Rating 8.5/10
"I Don't Wanna Cry" (1991) - Mariah returned to ballads with "I Don't Wanna Cry", a song about giving up a love that is broken. This song is another perfectly fine ballad, with an amazing climax that truly wowed listeners. Yet again, however, there are far more memorable songs than this and her second #1, which makes one wonder whether Carey Fever drove this single to #1 instead of actual desire to buy.
"Emotions" (1991) - Mariah's first single from her second album Emotions was another dip into the dance genre. The song served two purposes: two prove Mariah wasn't a dreary balladeer and she could hit those stunning high notes like a pro. Both goals were met greatly. Rating: 8/10
"I'll Be There" (1992) - After "Can't Let Go" and "Make It Happen" failed to top the charts, there were worries whether or not Carey's popularity was dropping. Then, there were those pesky critics who claimed Carey's voice was fake and studio-influenced. To silence them and to prove her vitality as an artist, Mariah went on MTV Unplugged. When she performed the Jackson 5 classic, there were so many request, her record label released it as a single. It became her biggest international success worldwide at the time, and solidified Mariah's career. Rating: 8/10
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