Mariah Carey stormed through the 90’s and 2000’s decade with 18, yes 18 songs that hit number one. She holds the record for the most number ones by a female artist and is only third in line overall behind The Beatles and Elvis Presley. Not too shabby.
The “Elusive Chanteuse” came mighty close to adding number 19 to that list when her holiday classic “All I Want For Christmas” made the top five of the Billboard Hot 100 in 2018, nearly 25 years after the song came out.
I consider myself a LAMB (her true fans) and with that comes the knowledge that there are several other songs of hers that should’ve been number one as well.
Take a look at 5 that didn’t make the coveted pole position but deserved to.
“#Beautiful” featuring Miguel- 2013. Peaked at number 15.
Mariah excels in so much but her R&B tinged songs are just the bees knees. This song is dripping in lyrical floetry by her and Miguel with a beat that is jam-worthy and more.
“Butterfly”- 1997. Did not chart.
Mariah’s number one streak at this point was pretty amazing as she had two tracks before “Butterfly” debut at the top (“Fantasy” and “Honey”). This could’ve kept that going, as it’s such a pretty ballad that only highlighted what an amazing vocal range she has.
“Anytime You Need a Friend”- 1993. Peaked at number 12.
I believe this was her lowest charting single up to this point in her career… but it was and is soooooo good! The gospel choir in the background and the uplifting lyrics are amazing and should’ve netted her another number one.
“Whenever You Call” featuring Brian McKnight- 1999. Did not chart.
This was featured as a bonus track to her first compilation of number ones 20 years ago. Should’ve been number one too. Mariah expertly collaborated with other R&B artists over her illustrious career (Luther Vandross, Boyz II Men) and Brian was no exception. Just a perfect song.
“When You Believe” duet with Whitney Houston- 1998. Peaked at number 15.
How in the hell did this track not hit number one? I’m baffled. The two biggest voices of the 90’s come together for an unbelievable track where they equally shined. You can’t get better than this when it comes to what a duet could be.
This post was created by one of our Contributing Writers and does not reflect the opinion of Instinct Magazine or the other Contributing Writers when it comes to this subject.