Mariah Carey’s Top 10 Most Streamed Duets
Mariah Carey, the undisputed queen of pop and R&B, has an impressive catalog of hits, including numerous memorable duets. These collaborations have not only showcased her incredible vocal range but also brought out the best in her partners. Here, we delve into Mariah’s top 10 most streamed duets, exploring fascinating details about each track, including chart performances, certifications, sales, and recording stories.
10. Thank God I Found You (with Joe and 98 Degrees) – Almost 60 Million Streams
“Thank God I Found You,” featuring Joe and 98 Degrees, is a soulful ballad that showcases the seamless blending of their voices. Released in 1999 as the second single from Mariah’s album “Rainbow,” the song reached the pinnacle of the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Mariah’s fifteenth number-one single in the United States.
Facts:
- RIAA Certification: Platinum 31 August 2023
- Chart Positions: Number one on the Billboard Hot 100
- Worldwide Sales Estimates: 1,037,500 physical single sales, 180,000 digital downloads, 1,002,000 streaming equivalent singles sales = over 2 million singles sold
- Writing and Recording: The song was co-written by Mariah, Jimmy Jam, and Terry Lewis, Teddy Riley, James Harris III and Lee Blaske.
- Music Video: The video, directed by Brett Ratner, features the artists performing the song in a live concert setting, adding an emotional depth to the track.
The collaboration with Joe and 98 Degrees not only brought diverse vocal talents together but also introduced Mariah’s music to a broader audience, including fans of 98 Degrees. The song was later remixed to Thank God I Found You / Make It Last with Joe and Nas, and got a separate video directed by Sanaa Hamri. This remix samples Keith Sweat’s 1987 classic “Make It Last Forever” featuring Jacci MacGhee.
US songwriters Seth Swirsky and Warren Campbell sued Mariah Carey in 2000, claiming “Thank God I Found You” infringed on their song “One of Those Love Songs” recorded by Xscape. Although the district court initially ruled in Carey’s favor, a higher court later found sufficient similarity between the songs, leading to the case being reinstated and eventually settled out of court in 2006.
Although not one of Mariah’s most memorable number one hits, the song’s original version has garnered almost 60 million streams on Spotify alone and 70 million views on Youtube.
9. I’ll Be There (with Trey Lorenz) – Almost 80 Million Streams
“I’ll Be There,” originally a hit by The Jackson 5, was masterfully covered by Mariah Carey featuring Trey Lorenz during her 1992 MTV Unplugged session. This heartfelt rendition showcases Mariah’s vocal prowess and Trey Lorenz’s impressive talent, creating a memorable and emotional performance.
Facts:
- RIAA Certification: Gold 27 March 2022
- Chart Positions: Number one on the Billboard Hot 100
- Worldwide Sales Estimates: 992,500 physical single sales, 645,000 digital downloads, 1,101,000 streaming equivalent singles sales = over 2.74 million singles sold
- Writing and Recording: The song, originally written by Berry Gordy, Bob West, Hal Davis, and Willie Hutch for the Jackson 5, was re-arranged for the unplugged session to highlight Mariah and Trey’s vocal harmonies.
- Music Video: The MTV Unplugged performance itself served as the music video, capturing the raw and powerful live rendition of the song.
Mariah and Trey’s version of “I’ll Be There” not only topped the charts but also became a staple in Mariah’s live performances, cementing its place as one of her most beloved duets, as Trey Lorenz continues to be one of her background singers. The song choice came at the very last minute: the Unplugged needed a new song and they decided on a cover. Mariah wanted to sing I’ll Be There by the Jackson 5 and Tommy Mottola, as chairman of Sony, got the clearance almost immediately to what became a near impromptu performance. Michael Jackson later stated publicly that this was his favourite cover of his song.
8. Against All Odds (with Westlife) – Almost 80 Million Streams
“Against All Odds,” originally a solo hit by Phil Collins, was beautifully reimagined by Mariah Carey and the Irish boy band Westlife in 2000. This powerful ballad combines Mariah’s stunning vocal range with Westlife’s harmonious voices, creating a rendition that is both emotionally charged and sonically rich.
Facts:
- Certification: Gold in the UK, Sweden and Denmark
- Chart Positions: Number one on the UK Singles Chart, Ireland and Scotland
- Worldwide Sales Estimates: 695,000 physical single sales, 440,000 digital downloads (both versions), 988,262 streaming equivalent singles sales = over 2.1 million singles sold
- Writing and Recording: Written by Phil Collins, the song was re-arranged to feature Mariah’s and Westlife’s vocals in perfect harmony, showcasing a new dynamic to the classic hit.
- Music Video: Directed by Bill Boatman and P. Snyde, the music video shows Carey and Westlife recording the song and exploring the island of Capri by boat.
This collaboration, released as an alternative UK version of the Rainbow album original, brought together Mariah’s established star power and Westlife’s fresh appeal, resulting in a version of “Against All Odds” that resonated with audiences worldwide. The track not only topped the UK Singles Chart but also became a fan favorite, amassing almost 80 million streams on Spotify and continuing to captivate listeners with its timeless appeal.
7. Oh Santa! (with Ariana Grande and Jennifer Hudson) – Almost 100 Million Streams
“Oh Santa!,” an original holiday hit by Mariah Carey, was given a fresh twist in 2020 with the addition of powerhouse vocalists Ariana Grande and Jennifer Hudson. This festive track combines the joyful spirit of Christmas with the remarkable vocal talents of all three artists, creating a holiday anthem that resonates with fans worldwide. The remake of this song, featuring both artists, was included in Mariah Carey’s Apple TV Magical Christmas Special in 2020.
Facts:
- Certifications: None Yet
- Chart Positions: Number one on Billboard’s Holiday Digital Song Sales and in the Netherlands
- Worldwide Sales Estimates: Physical single sales – N/A, 472,500 digital downloads, 1,500,000 streaming equivalent singles sales (combined versions) = over 1.9 million singles sold
- Writing and Recording: Co-written by Mariah Carey, Jermaine Dupri, and Bryan-Michael Cox, the song features a lively and upbeat arrangement that highlights the dynamic vocal interplay between Mariah, Ariana, and Jennifer.
- Music Video: Directed by Roman Coppola and Hamish Hamilton, the festive and vibrant video showcases the three divas performing in Santa’s workshop in a Supremes-styled performance.
This collaboration brought together three generations of vocal legends, resulting in a rendition of “Oh Santa!” that quickly became a holiday staple. The song has grown in popularity each year, climbing higher in the Spotify charts every Christmas. Although it hasn’t been certified yet, its seasonal appeal and expanding audience suggest that it will likely earn some accolades in the near future.
The trio performed the song live for the first time during Mariah’s Christmas concert at Madison Square Garden in 2023.
6. All I Want for Christmas Is You (with Justin Bieber) – Almost 110 Million Streams
“All I Want for Christmas Is You,” Mariah Carey’s timeless holiday classic, doesn’t need any introduction. The song received a modern twist in 2011 with the addition of pop sensation Justin Bieber. This festive collaboration infused the beloved Christmas anthem with fresh energy, appealing to both Mariah’s loyal fans and Justin’s younger audience.
Facts:
- Certifications: Gold in the US, Australia and Denmark
- Chart Positions: Number 2 in Norway and number 3 in Billboard’s Adult Contemporary
- Worldwide Sales Estimates: Combined versions: 1,822,500 physical single sales, 17,117,500 digital downloads, 2,966,000 streaming equivalent singles sales (duet version only) = over 21.9 million singles sold (solo and duet)
- Writing and Recording: Originally written by Mariah Carey and Walter Afanasieff, the duet version features new vocals by Justin Bieber, adding a youthful and contemporary flair to the classic tune.
- Music Video: Directed by Sanaa Hamri, the video showcases a fun and festive holiday setting, with Mariah and Justin spreading Christmas cheer in a bustling, gift-filled Macy’s department store.
This collaboration brought together Mariah’s iconic holiday spirit and Justin’s modern pop influence, resulting in a rendition of “All I Want for Christmas Is You” that resonated across generations. The track’s upbeat and joyous arrangement, combined with the star power of both artists, has garnered almost 110 million streams on Spotify, solidifying its place as a holiday favorite for years to come.
5. Endless Love (with Luther Vandross) – Almost 110 Million Streams
“Endless Love,” originally a duet by Diana Ross and Lionel Richie, was given a breathtaking revival by Mariah Carey and Luther Vandross in 1994. This soulful ballad showcases the unparalleled vocal talents of Mariah and Luther, creating a rendition that is both deeply emotional and technically flawless.
Facts:
- RIAA Certification: Platinum 20 April 2021. Also Platinum in New Zealand and Australia. Gold in the UK and Japan
- Chart Positions: Number two on the Billboard Hot 100
- Worldwide Sales Estimates:1,292,500 physical single sales, 765,000 digital downloads, 1,994,600 streaming equivalent singles sales = over 4 million singles sold
- Writing and Recording: Written by Lionel Richie, the song was re-arranged for Mariah and Luther’s powerful duet by Walter Afanasieff, highlighting the duo’s extraordinary vocal chemistry.
- Music Video: Directed by Tony McGrath, the video features an elegant and intimate setting with Mariah and Luther performing the song together, emphasizing their strong emotional connection and mutual respect.
This collaboration brought together two of the most remarkable voices in music, resulting in a rendition of “Endless Love” that is both nostalgic and refreshingly new. On a journey home, Tommy Mottola mentioned to Mariah that Luther Vandross was planning an album of covers. Mariah immediately suggested “Endless Love,” and both were thrilled to collaborate. To this day, the song remains Luther’s most successful single.
4. #Beautiful (with Miguel) – Almost 125 Million Streams
“#Beautiful,” a sultry and romantic duet by Mariah Carey and R&B singer Miguel, was released in 2013 as the promo single to Me. I am Mariah. The Elusive Chanteuse. This track showcases a perfect blend of Mariah’s signature vocal prowess and Miguel’s smooth, soulful voice, creating a modern classic that captivates listeners with its infectious melody and chemistry.
Facts:
- RIAA Certification: 2x Platinum 21 July 2017. Platinum in Australia, Gold in New Zealand and Silver in the UK
- Chart Positions: #15 on the Billboard Hot 100
- Worldwide Sales Estimates: Physical single sales: N/A, 2,050,000 digital downloads, 2,120,000 streaming equivalent singles sales = over 4.1 million singles sold
- Writing and Recording: Co-written by Mariah Carey, Miguel, Nathan Perez, Brook Davis, and Mac Robinson, the song’s production features a minimalist arrangement that highlights the vocal interplay between Mariah and Miguel.
- Music Video: Directed by Joseph Kahn, the video features Mariah and Miguel in a series of stylish and visually stunning settings, including a classic motorcycle ride and a vintage car, perfectly complementing the song’s breezy, summertime vibe.
This collaboration between Mariah and Miguel brought a fresh and contemporary edge to Mariah’s discography, appealing to both longtime fans and new listeners. The song’s catchy hook and undeniable chemistry between the artists have garnered almost 125 million streams on Spotify, solidifying its status as a standout hit in Mariah’s extensive catalog.
3. When You Believe (with Whitney Houston) – Almost 160 Million Streams
“When You Believe,” a powerful duet by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston, was released in 1998 as part of the soundtrack for the animated film “The Prince of Egypt.” This inspirational ballad showcases the extraordinary vocal talents of two of the most iconic singers in music history, delivering a message of hope and faith.
Facts:
- RIAA Certification: Platinum 27 March 2022. Also Platinum in Sweden, Norway and Belgium.
- Chart Positions: Number fifteen on the Billboard Hot 100, Number four on the UK Singles Chart
- Worldwide Sales Estimates: 1,730,000 physical single sales, 842,500 digital downloads, 5,300,000 streaming equivalent singles sales = over 7.8 million singles sold
- Writing and Recording: Written by Stephen Schwartz and produced by Babyface.
- Music Video: Directed by Phil Joanou, the video features Mariah and Whitney in a recording studio, interspersed with scenes from “The Prince of Egypt,” highlighting the song’s connection to the film’s themes of perseverance and faith.
The collaboration between Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston was highly anticipated, bringing together two legendary voices for a truly unforgettable performance. The song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and has become a timeless anthem of inspiration. According to multiple interviews, Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston were persuaded to participate in their duet by being told the other had already agreed enthusiastically. This tactic proved successful as they became close friends, dispelling feud rumors. They performed the song live on “The Oprah Winfrey Show” and at the Academy Awards.
2. One Sweet Day (with Boyz II Men) – Almost 200 Million Streams
“One Sweet Day,” a heartfelt collaboration between Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men, was released in 1995 and quickly became an iconic ballad. This poignant song, which addresses themes of loss and longing, showcases the powerful vocal harmonies of Mariah and Boyz II Men, creating an emotional and unforgettable musical experience.
Facts:
- RIAA Certification: 4 times Platinum 31 August 2023, 3x Platinum in Australia and Platinum in New Zealand
- Chart Positions: Number one on the Billboard Hot 100 (16 consecutive weeks, a record at the time)
- Worldwide Sales Estimates: 3,535,000 physical single sales, 1,817,500 digital downloads, 4,136,000 streaming equivalent singles sales = over 9.4 million singles sold
- Writing and Recording: Co-written by Mariah Carey, Walter Afanasieff, and Boyz II Men members Nathan Morris, Wanya Morris, Shawn Stockman, and Michael McCary, the song was inspired by personal losses experienced by both Mariah and the group.
- Music Video: Directed by Larry Jordan, the video features Mariah and Boyz II Men recording the song in the studio, interspersed with scenes of the artists reflecting on loved ones lost, enhancing the song’s emotional depth.
“One Sweet Day” holds the distinction of being one of the longest-running number-one singles in Billboard Hot 100 history (16 weeks), reflecting its widespread impact and popularity. The record was only broken in 2019, with Lil Nas’ “Old Town Road”. Mariah stated she was developing the song after the loss of her good friend, David Cole, who had worked with her on remixes for “Emotions” and “Anytime You Need a Friend”.
1. I Know What You Want (with Busta Rhymes) – Almost 300 Million Streams
“I Know What You Want,” a standout collaboration between Mariah Carey and Busta Rhymes, was released in 2003 and became an instant hit. This sultry and catchy track combines Mariah’s smooth vocals with Busta Rhymes’ dynamic rap verses, creating a memorable fusion of R&B and hip-hop.
Facts:
- RIAA Certification: Platinum on 27 March 2022; also Platinum in Australia
- Chart Positions: Number three on the Billboard Hot 100
- Worldwide Sales Estimates: 447,500 physical single sales, 640,000 digital downloads, 6,000,000 streaming equivalent singles sales = over 7 million singles sold
- Writing and Recording: Written by Trevor Smith (Busta Rhymes), Leroy Jones, Rashia Fisher, Ricardo Thomas, Roger McNair and William Lewis.
- Music Video: Directed by Chris Robinson, the video tells a cinematic, comic strip-like story featuring Busta Rhymes, Mariah Carey, and actor Michael Jai White, adding a visual narrative to the song’s themes of desire and longing.
The collaboration between Mariah Carey and Busta Rhymes brought together two different musical styles, resulting in a track that appealed to a wide audience. “I Know What You Want” became a commercial success, showcasing Mariah’s versatility and Busta’s lyrical prowess. At a time when Glitter and Charmbracelet werebeing signs of Mariah’s superstar demise, the song’s popularity brought back the glimmer of hope that Mariah was here to stay, as she would soon prove with the release of The Emancipation of Mimi.
Surprisingly, while the song didn’t reach the number one position that had become a standard in Mariah’s legendary career, it has stamped its mark on Mariah’s Top 10 Most Streamed All Time Songs, hinting that this hip hop track is aging like fine wine. The duo later released the track “Where I Belong” but the track not only lacked any publicity, but has garnered little widespread success.
Mariah Carey’s illustrious career is marked by her ability to blend seamlessly with a variety of artists across different genres, creating unforgettable duets that resonate with listeners worldwide. From the soulful harmonies of “Endless Love” with Luther Vandross to the festive cheer of “Oh Santa!” with Ariana Grande and Jennifer Hudson, Mariah has consistently showcased her versatility and unparalleled vocal talent. These collaborations not only highlight her adaptability but also her ability to bring out the best in her partners, resulting in tracks that are both commercially successful and critically acclaimed.
Her duets have transcended the boundaries of traditional pop and R&B, incorporating elements of hip-hop, soul, and even holiday music, thus appealing to a broad and diverse audience. Each track in this list of Mariah’s top 10 most streamed duets tells a unique story of musical synergy and artistic brilliance. With almost 300 million streams for “I Know What You Want” with Busta Rhymes and the enduring appeal of classics like “One Sweet Day” with Boyz II Men, Mariah Carey’s collaborations have left an indelible mark on the music industry. These duets not only celebrate her remarkable career but also her ability to connect with audiences through the universal language of music.
