Mariah Carey ‘Here For It All’ Review: Carefree Vibes and Moments of Brilliance

Mariah Carey’s latest album ‘Here For It All’ blends carefree energy with standout moments, showcasing her enduring vocal charm.

Mariah’s Return: No Pressure, Just Passion

If there’s one thing Mariah Carey doesn’t need, it’s to prove herself anymore. With a staggering 19 Billboard Hot 100 number ones and six Grammys under her belt, she’s already cemented her place as a pop legend. The woman who influenced icons from Adele to Ariana Grande could easily kick back and relax. But instead, she’s back with her 16th studio album, Here For It All, not out of necessity, but because she simply wants to.

Mariah Carey in 2025, embracing her legacy with effortless cool.

This laid-back attitude flows through the album, revealing its two faces: moments of indifference and flashes of pure brilliance.

The Mixed Bag: When the Album Slows Down

Some tracks lean too heavily into current trends without the sparkle Mariah usually brings. Take “Confetti & Champagne,” a trap-inflected song that feels rather underwhelming, or “Sugar Sweet,” a dancehall-infused collaboration with Kehlani and Shenseea that doesn’t quite hit the mark. Neither fully captures Mariah’s vocal fireworks or songwriting magic, leaving a bit to be desired.

That said, the lead single “Type Dangerous” cuts through the monotony. Sampling Eric B. & Rakim’s 1986 classic “Eric B. Is President,” it brings back hip-hop soul with a sassy swagger that reminds us why Mariah is still a force to be reckoned with.

When Mariah Shines: The Album’s High Points

But oh, when the album hits its stride, it truly soars. The title track, Here For It All, is a six-minute gem – rare and bold for 2025. It begins as a soft, vulnerable piano ballad before morphing into a mid-tempo gospel celebration. Mariah’s soulful plea, “Oh, my Lord, hallelujah / Holy Spirit, fall down on me / This is just a rehearsal, test flight / Praise the Most High,” is a stirring highlight that resonates deeply.

Musically, the album delights on funkier numbers like “Play This Song,” which features and is produced by the effortlessly cool Anderson .Paak. The disco-funk vibe of “I Won’t Allow It” also stands out, with cheeky lyrics that showcase Mariah’s playful spirit: “Wanted the fame, used my name, bet you thought you could do that… I won’t allow it.”

Check out the groovy vibes of Play This Song here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=csNmuAogO2g

The Voice: Honest and Unfiltered

One of the most striking things about Here For It All is how candid Mariah is about her voice’s evolution. Gone are the soaring whistles and crystal-clear runs of her prime; instead, her whistle notes feel more fragile and strained, and a subtle rasp colors her legendary melisma. But rather than shy away, she embraces these changes with remarkable confidence and gusto.

Her cover of Paul McCartney and Wings’ 1973 classic “My Love” is schmaltzy but drenched in her unmistakable tonal beauty. Meanwhile, “Jesus I Do,” a collaboration with the Clark Sisters that nods to her 1991 hit “Make It Happen,” reveals a joyful lightness and spiritual warmth we haven’t heard from Mimi in years. It’s a beautiful reminder that while her voice has changed, her heart is still very much in it.

Where Does ‘Here For It All’ Stand in Mariah’s Legacy?

Among the vast landscape of Mariah’s 16 albums, Here For It All may not be her crowning jewel. It lacks the cohesion and adventurous spirit of Caution, the bold sonic leaps of Butterfly, and the viral magic that surrounded Memoirs Of An Imperfect Angel. Yet, it’s still a solid, enjoyable record.

For an artist who could walk away from music anytime, Mariah’s commitment to her craft is refreshing. She remains a guiding star, influencing generations and reminding us all why we’re “here for it all.”

Album Details

Mariah Carey’s ‘Here For It All’ album cover.

• Record Label: Gamma
• Release Date: September 26, 2025

“Her voice may not be what it was, but we’re still glad to have it around all the same.”

FAQ

• How many number one hits does Mariah Carey have?
  Mariah Carey boasts 19 Billboard Hot 100 number one hits, a record that few artists have matched.
• Who are some artists influenced by Mariah Carey?
  Artists like Adele and Ariana Grande have publicly acknowledged Mariah’s influence on their music and vocal style.
• What type of music styles are explored on ‘Here For It All’?
  The album experiments with trap, dancehall, hip-hop soul, gospel, funk, and disco-funk sounds.
• How has Mariah Carey’s voice changed on this album?
  Her vocal tone now includes a rasp and her whistle notes are more delicate, reflecting natural changes over time.
• Is ‘Here For It All’ Mariah Carey’s final album?
  There’s no indication this will be her last; Mariah creates music because she loves it, not out of obligation.

Take a moment to celebrate Mariah’s enduring artistry by shopping your favorite album cover poster at our store — bring a piece of pop music history into your home! Shop here.