Mariah Carey and Anderson .Paak: A Holiday Rumor Wrapped in Music and Mystery
Mariah Carey’s love life has been a subject of public fascination for decades, and recent rumors linking her to musician Anderson .Paak have only heightened the intrigue. Spotted holding hands in Aspen, the pop icon and the multitalented artist have sparked speculation about whether their relationship is purely professional or something more. As the world wonders about the nature of their connection, let’s delve into Mariah’s romantic history, her rumored relationships, and her recent activities with Anderson .Paak.
A Glimpse into Mariah’s Past: The Marriage with Nick Cannon
Mariah Carey’s marriage to actor and comedian Nick Cannon seemed like a fairy tale when they tied the knot in 2008. The couple welcomed twins, Moroccan and Monroe, and often appeared to be the epitome of Hollywood happiness. However, their relationship ended in 2014, and rumors of infidelity on Cannon’s part circulated widely. Carey’s 2009 song “Betcha Gon’ Know” fueled these suspicions, with lyrics describing betrayal and heartbreak, such as, “To have something like this happen in my own bedroom.” While Carey has never explicitly confirmed these allegations, fans believe the song provides a glimpse into the pain she endured during the breakup.
Nick Cannon, for his part, has expressed regret over the dissolution of their marriage but has denied cheating. Despite their rocky split, the two have managed to co-parent their twins amicably, showcasing their dedication to family above all else.
The Bryan Tanaka Chapter
Following her divorce from Cannon, Carey found love again with Bryan Tanaka, her backup dancer. In her memoir, Carey briefly mentions this romance, revealing that Tanaka had caught her eye a decade before they even started dating. The pair’s chemistry was evident during her performances, and they officially began dating in 2016. However, their relationship was marked by drama and frequent breakups, largely due to reports of jealousy and disagreement, according to tabloids at the time.
The couple broke up for good on December 26, 2023, after seven years together. They had previously split briefly in April 2017, reportedly for Carey to focus on her kids and new music. At the time of their final breakup, Bryan Tanaka wrote on Instagram: “With mixed emotions, I share this personal update regarding my amicable separation from Mariah Carey after seven extraordinary years together. Our decision to embark on different paths is mutual, and as we navigate these separate journeys, we do so with profound respect and an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the invaluable time we’ve shared. The memories we’ve created and the artistic collaborations are etched in my heart forever. I eagerly anticipate continuing my journey, knowing my passion for inspiration, dance, and the creative arts will resonate in the unfolding chapters.” Despite the ups and downs, Carey’s time with Tanaka was emblematic of her willingness to embrace love, even in unconventional circumstances.
The Lenny Kravitz Rumors
Earlier in 2024, Carey’s name was linked to another music legend: Lenny Kravitz. According to Perez Hilton, he claimed that Carey and Kravitz were allegedly romantically involved. However, neither Carey nor Kravitz confirmed the rumors, and their interactions seemed to be more friendly than romantic. Fans speculated that their shared history in the music industry and mutual admiration could have led to a deeper connection, but without solid evidence, the rumors eventually faded. Nonetheless, the possibility of a relationship between two icons captured the imagination of their fans.
Enter Anderson .Paak
Fast forward to the holiday season, and Mariah Carey has once again set tongues wagging. This time, it’s her connection with Anderson .Paak, the Grammy-winning artist known for his genre-blending music and magnetic stage presence. Spotted holding hands and spending time together in Aspen, the pair have ignited speculation about a potential romance. The unlikely duo were seen dining at Catch Steak in Aspen, Colorado, on Sunday, December 22, holding hands as they entered the restaurant.
Anderson .Paak, born Brandon Paak Anderson, is a talented musician, rapper, singer, and producer. Known for his soulful voice and dynamic drumming, he has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, including Bruno Mars in the critically acclaimed duo Silk Sonic. His eclectic style and undeniable charm have made him a standout figure in the industry.
Mariah and Anderson’s connection appears to be a recent development. The two spent time together in the studio at Electric Lady Studios in New York City in June, and Carey hinted at working with .Paak during a Vogue interview, saying, “I’ve actually been working this whole week in the studio with someone who shall remain nameless, but I’m so excited about that.” Additionally, .Paak shared photos and videos of himself and Carey on social media, including a video from the Electric Lady studio and a Halloween photo where he dressed as Daft Punk.
Aspen: A Holiday Tradition
Aspen holds a special place in Mariah Carey’s heart. This year, her time there with Anderson .Paak has drawn even more attention. The two were spotted holding hands while entering a restaurant, adding to speculation about their relationship. Carey’s visits to Aspen often involve holiday celebrations, where she embraces the festive spirit with her signature flair. These visits often include family time, luxurious shopping sprees, and, of course, her iconic fashion statements—even in the snow.
This year, Anderson .Paak’s presence in Aspen has added a new layer of curiosity. her frequent outings with Anderson suggest a deeper bond. The holiday season, with its cozy charm and intimate moments, has only fueled speculation about the nature of their relationship.
One day after entering the Catch Steak hand-in-hand with Carey herself, a photographer from The Shade Room asked about buying Christmas gifts for his rumored new boo, Mariah Carey. A wide grinned “You never know!” was all .Paak would share prior to Christmas Eve, another record-breaking date for Carey as most-streamed song in a day for AIWFCIY. Their shared musical sensibilities and mutual respect make their partnership—whether personal or professional—particularly intriguing.
Professional or Personal?
There’s a possibility that Mariah and Anderson’s time in Aspen is purely professional. Carey has been teasing a new album, and Anderson’s reputation as a versatile producer and musician could make him a valuable collaborator. Aspen’s tranquility and inspiration might provide the perfect backdrop for creating music.
However, the timing and context of their outings have led many to wonder if there’s more to the story. Spending the holidays together is a significant gesture, even for close friends or collaborators. The cozy setting of Aspen and their visible chemistry have left fans guessing about the true nature of their connection.
Mariah’s Approach to Relationships
Mariah Carey has always been a private person when it comes to her personal life. While she shares glimpses of her world through social media and interviews, she’s careful about what she reveals. This discretion only adds to the intrigue surrounding her relationships.
Carey’s tendency to hold hands with male friends and bodyguards while walking in public—especially in challenging conditions like snow in high-heeled boots—has been well-documented. It’s a practical choice for someone navigating icy streets in high-heeled boots and an elegant way to maintain her balance and grace. However, her extended time with Anderson .Paak in Aspen suggests there might be more to their connection than mere practicality.
The Future
As Mariah Carey and Anderson .Paak continue to make headlines, fans are left to wonder what’s next. Are they working on groundbreaking music together, or is this the start of a romantic chapter in Carey’s life? Only time will tell.
For now, the Aspen sightings have reignited interest in Carey’s personal life and highlighted her enduring ability to captivate audiences both on and off the stage. Whether it’s through her music, her relationships, or her iconic holiday celebrations, Mariah Carey remains a star who knows how to keep the world guessing.
