Muni Long is speaking out following the viral reaction to her tribute performance of Mariah Carey’s hit song, “We Belong Together,” at the iHeartRadio Music Awards. Despite some fans interpreting Mariah Carey’s reaction as a side-eye during the performance, Long insists that the pop legend was pleased with her rendition.
On March 17, 2025, Muni Long, 36, took the stage at the prestigious iHeartRadio Music Awards to honor Mariah Carey, 55, who was awarded the Icon Award. Long performed “We Belong Together,” one of Carey’s most iconic hits. However, a viral clip from the performance captured Carey seemingly unimpressed, which led some fans to speculate that she was dissatisfied with Long’s vocals.
The moment quickly went viral, with many discussing Carey’s alleged side-eye and wondering if the tribute was well-received. However, Long quickly addressed these concerns, setting the record straight through a video shared by The Shade Room on March 19.
In her video, Long explained that Carey had specifically asked her to perform during the tribute, dispelling any rumors that she chose to perform the song on her own. “She asked me to do it,” Long said. “You thought I chose to get on TV and sing a Mariah Carey song? Why would I do that? Nobody can sing Mariah’s songs like Mariah. Nobody.”
Long continued, emphasizing her respect for Carey and the honor of being asked to pay tribute to her. The singer also revealed that while she had footage of Carey praising her performance, she would not post it due to lighting concerns, respecting Carey’s preference for the perfect setting.
“She told me I did a great job, she appreciated it,” Long shared. “And that’s it. Once again, if she pushed me down the stairs, if she told me she hated it, I would say thank you. That’s what I would say.”
In a post on her Instagram stories, Mariah Carey confirmed her appreciation for both Long and fellow tribute performer Tori Kelly. Carey shared a photo of the two singers, praising their talent and expressing her gratitude for their heartfelt tributes. “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,” Carey wrote.
The pop icon’s words of appreciation were further reflected in a clip shared by iHeartRadio, where Carey is seen smiling as Long delivers her final note. Long expressed her gratitude in the comments, writing, “Thank you @mariahcarey for choosing me to honor you in this magical moment! You ARE my Icon and I am your forever lamb. I love you! The little girl in me is screaming.”
Despite the viral reaction and online criticism, Muni Long has maintained that her performance was done out of love and respect for Mariah Carey. With the support of the legendary singer herself, Long has made it clear that the moment was a special tribute to one of the biggest icons in music history.
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