Mariah Carey’s “Here For It All”; A Relaxed Victory Lap That’s Still Sugar Sweet
It’s been seven years since Caution (2018), and Mariah Carey finally returns with her 16th studio album, Here For It All. At just 11 tracks, it’s a confident, relaxed collection that finds Carey embracing both her legacy and her versatility. The project plays like a modernized throwback to the 2000s Mariah that made her an R&B staple, with enough stylistic shifts to keep things fresh, even if a few transitions feel jarring. The result? A record that may not rival the transcendence of her ’90s peaks, but one that reminds us she’s still capable of producing gems that only a legend could deliver.
The album begins with “Mi,” a braggadocious but sultry opener built around finger snaps and airy R&B production. Carey stakes her claim with tongue-in-cheek confidence: “I ain’t check the price since emancipation of Mi.” It’s playful, personal, and a fitting reintroduction. She follows it with “Play This Song” (feat. Anderson .Paak), which leans heavily into Silk Sonic territory. With velvety, lush harmonies and live drums, the rumored chemistry between the two artists translates into one of the record’s smoothest highlights.
Mariah shows her versatility with “Type Dangerous,” a swaggering cut of skittering beats and half-rap delivery, winking at her history of dating bad boys. “Sugar Sweet” (feat. Kehlani & Shenseea) ups the tempo, layering dancehall bounce with playful flirtation: “Imma keep it sugar, Imma keep it sweet.” It’s sultry, infectious, and destined to become a fan favorite.
On the softer side, “In Your Feelings” is piano-laden and Motown-inspired, showcasing Carey’s honeyed vocals over handclaps and harmonies. “Nothing Is Impossible” strips the production down even further, proving that even without her signature belts, she can convey deep emotion. It’s a quietly inspirational track that reminds listeners of her ability to marry restraint with power.
Midway through, Carey leans heavier into grooves. “Confetti & Champagne” delivers moody R&B with snap-heavy beats, while “I Won’t Allow It” goes full disco empowerment anthem, driven by groovy bass and Carey’s cutting line: “I won’t entertain your narcissistic ways.” “My Love,” a faithful cover of Paul McCartney & Wings’ 1973 hit, adds a layer of nostalgia.
The album’s lone misfire is “Jesus | Do” (feat. The Clark Sisters), a gospel-infused interlude that feels unnecessary and disrupts the flow. Thankfully, she closes with “Here For It All,” a tender ballad that brings the record to a graceful conclusion.
Here For It All may not soar to the heights of Daydream or The Emancipation of Mimi, but it doesn’t need to. This is an album by an artist at ease with herself, balancing vintage and contemporary styles without overreaching. It’s consistently solid, often delightful, and occasionally almost perfect. Mariah Carey doesn’t need to prove anything anymore; Here It Is is proof she’s still got it, and she’s more than happy to remind us on her own terms.
