Mariah Carey swiftly responded to growing speculation surrounding her reaction to Muni Long’s tribute performance of “We Belong Together” at the iHeartRadio Awards. The legendary singer, who was honored with the Icon Award that night, was caught on camera giving what many interpreted as a skeptical or unimpressed look during Long’s rendition of her hit song. This brief moment sparked a flurry of online chatter, with fans labeling her expression as “shady.”
However, Carey wasted no time addressing the narrative. On March 19, she posted a heartfelt message on her Instagram Stories, celebrating both Long and fellow performer Tori Kelly. “So beyond grateful for these two gorgeous, uber-talented, kind, incredible musicians who made my heart so full of joy with their tribute performances at the @iheartradio awards,” she wrote, expressing nothing but love and admiration for the artists. “I love and appreciate you so much!!!” she added, putting to rest any rumors of dissatisfaction.
Muni Long Shares Her Perspective on the Tribute
Muni Long, who was chosen by Carey to perform the tribute, also weighed in on the situation. She revealed that Carey had personally selected her for the honor, an act that she deeply appreciated. “Nobody can sing Mariah’s songs like Mariah. Nobody,” Long humbly acknowledged in her post-performance reflection.
Long also shared that Carey privately praised her tribute performance, a moment that she chose to keep intimate. Though she had recorded the exchange, Long decided not to post the footage out of respect for their private moment. Adding some humor to the situation, she joked that even if Carey had “pushed her down the stairs or said she hated it,” she would still have felt honored to be chosen for the tribute.
Despite the initial buzz surrounding Carey’s expression, both the public and private responses from Carey and Long made it clear that there were no hard feelings. The two artists have maintained their admiration for one another, ensuring that the moment remained one of respect and celebration, not conflict.
