Though it is now a feat most closely associated with Rihanna, Mariah Carey was the master of snatching #1 records left and right in the 90’s.
Today’s From The Vault pick focuses on a memorably live showing of her 14th chart-topper, 1999’s ‘Heartbreaker.’
Written and produced by Carey alongside DJ Clue and featuring a rap verse by Jay-Z, ‘Heartbreaker’ was the debut single from the diva’s seventh album ‘Rainbow’.
Likened to previous smash ‘Fantasy’ because of their similar hooks, the cut also received a re-work courtesy of Missy Elliott and Da Brat which was sent to radio and included on the album.
Its music video – directed by longtime friend and collaborator Brett Ratner – saw Mimi go head to head with her arch nemesis Bianca.
Reaching the top of the US chart, it was also a Top 5 single in the UK as well as France.
The performance we salute here was held at Mimi’s high-school making it a literal homecoming. Opting for a cheerleader’s theme, the occasion saw pompoms and leather jackets were out in full force. Jay Z and Da Brat even made appearances sending the audience into a frenzy.
So why this showing? We love seeing Mariah take advantage of her scenography and not being static in the middle of the stage with only hand gestures as “choreography”. Though she’s not exactly dropping it like it’s hot, she makes for a compelling moment by just… performing. Clearly we’re not the only ones who feel as such, indeed her ‘Sweet Sweet Fantasy Tour’ saw the mother-of-two employ a similar strategy delivering her most entertaining performances in years.
With a new team on deck, a successful Vegas stint, as well as a critically-acclaimed European jaunt, the future is looking brighter than it has for a long time for the songstress. We say it’s a good thing as it seems like she’s not going anywhere, and frankly we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Ready when you are, MC!
The voice of our generation. I enjoyed her Sweet Sweet Fantasy tour when she came to South Africa, she still has it
does Gaga still have it though?
*sips tea*
… and that’s truly no shade, but really…
NOPE…Gags is beyond done. With her over the top antics and polyester imitation Madonna music, she officially ruined and ended pop music.
Cake
Glad you finally told us about the concert.
To the other two retarded people: of course Gaga still has it. She can f****** slay a stage unlike Rihanna who just never could. Things one has to read… pathetic.
I’ll always love this woman, I don’t care what her vocals sound like or how much weight she gains. This woman killed me with THE EMANCIPATION OF MIMI.
But on a sidenote, is this Ariana’s inspiration? Da Brat as Nicki and Ariana as, well, you already know who. I kinda wish Ariana would find her own lane than do everything Mariah has already done.
I’d hate to have someone try and be me and sell more records just by copying my style. Nicki is another perfect example
Jay so s*** ?
One of the most expensive video of all time ???????????
I never doubted Mariah throughout all the shade and dragging the the media did. This woman is not just a musical inspiration but an inspiration of strength and faith, her music saved my sister and family from hard times. Songs such as Outside, Anytime You Need A friend, Make It Happen, If It’s Over, Looking In, I Am Free, One Sweet Day, Close My Eyes, Petals, and Fly Like A Bird are just example of how amazing her catalog is. I will always love n support you Mimi. I can’t wait for the next album, and I pray you’ll consider a jazz album too someday.
But none are selling more records than her though. And her branch offs don’t even come close….
She is iconic and the 2nd greatest voice of all time behind Whitney. People joke and hate on her but voice has saved lives. HERO is a certified classic
Ready for another billboard song of the decade MC !!
SLAYRIAH!
I love me some mimi
That VOICE! Even when Heartbreaker was not even her vocal peak or anything, but still slays anybody out there now. Not to mention we could even say she dances better than Rihanna LMAO That´s how bad nowadays models are 🙂
Awesome