Mariah Carey Says She “Didn’t Even Hear” Muni Long’s “We Belong Together” Cover
Mariah Carey explained her reaction to Muni Long‘s live performance of “We Belong Together” in a new interview. Muni delivered a live rendition of the chart topper at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards, preceding Carey’s acceptance of the Icon Award. During her performance, the camera panned to Mariah Carey in the audience, sitting next to Anderson .Paak. While it is not clear what she reacted to, a quick, noticeable side eye went viral.
“I didn’t even hear the cover. I didn’t know it happened. No one told me,” shared the 56-year-old to GQ Magazine. “I love Muni Long! I just didn’t know that she had done ‘We Belong Together’ [as a cover] ‘cause her song was so similar to ‘We Belong Together.’ I had no idea that she did ‘We Belong Together.’”
“Well, I’m very honored and flattered that she did it. I love Muni Long, she’s a great person, umm, but I just don’t like people doing my songs,” she continued to explain with laughter.
At the time, Muni Long addressed critics of her performance by explaining how the moment came to fruition.
“The people that’s got a lot to say, you don’t understand how this paying homage and having respect for people…” the 36-year-old revealed. “She asked me to do it… You thought I chose to get on TV and sing a Mariah Carey song? You thought that was my choice? Why would I do that? Nobody can sing Mariah’s songs like Mariah. Nobody.”
She continued to share, “She told me I did a great job, she appreciated it. 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.”
Muni Long performs onstage at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards at Dolby Theatre on March 17, 2025 in Hollywood, California.
Monica Schipper/Getty Images
The Butterfly performer also issued a response to negative commentary about the tribute, which also featured Tori Kelly singing “Always Be My Baby.”
“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,” wrote the Grammy-winner on social media.
“I love and appreciate you so much!!!”
