Multiple Grammy Award winner Mariah Carey has finally addressed the viral video that captured her seemingly uncomfortable facial expressions during Muni Long’s tribute performance of “We Belong Together” at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards.
Speaking in an interview with GQ, the “Emotions” singer explained that her reaction was less about Muni Long’s delivery and more about her personal preference.
Carey admitted that she does not enjoy hearing other artistes cover her songs, regardless of their talent.
“I didn’t even hear the cover [due to bad venue acoustics]. I didn’t know it happened. No one told me. I’m very honored and flattered that she did it. I love Muni Long, she’s a great person, umm, but I just don’t like people doing my songs,” Carey clarified.
Despite her reservations, Carey made sure to give Muni Long her flowers, acknowledging the tribute as an honor and praising the “Made for Me” singer.
Muni Long, who faced a wave of online criticism following the awards show, also weighed in on the matter.
Sharing a video on social media, she expressed pride in her performance and gratitude for Carey’s appreciation.
“Nobody can sing Mariah’s songs like Mariah. Nobody. I did my best, and that’s all I can do. Mariah told me I did a great job, she appreciated it. And that’s it,” Muni stated.
Over the years, Carey has often been celebrated with tributes from legendary performers including Yolanda Adams, Patti LaBelle, Karen Clark-Sheard, Tori Kelly, Kelly Rowland, and Joe.
With a career spanning three decades, she has collected five Grammy Awards from 34 nominations, and in 2024 she received the prestigious Grammy Global Impact Award.
Fans online remained divided over the viral moment.
One Instagram user, Natasha Terell, wrote: “Mariah is the most consistent human we know. Not surprised.”
Another, Annie, added: “This a valid reaction though. When it’s Mariah or Whitney; don’t touch them songs ladies. They’re already perfect.”
Meanwhile, Paris pointed out: “Muni tried her best. But she was all smiles and happy during Tori though.”