Muni Long Says Mariah Carey Told Her She Did a 'Great Job' with iHeart Homage Despite Viral Reaction
On Monday, March 17, Long, 36, took the stage at the iHeartRadio Music Awards 2025 to perform Carey's hit "We Belong Together." Carey, 55, was honored with the Icon Award at the awards show. In a viral, cutaway clip of the performance, Carey appears unimpressed and looks to the side, a moment some fans interpreted as Carey side-eyeing Long's vocals.
However, Long said in a social media video reposted by The Shade Room on Wednesday, March 19, that Carey was actually pleased.
Addressing her critics, Long started by revealing that Carey was the one who asked her to sing during the tribute.
Related: Mariah Carey Fans Wonder If Singer Is 'OK' Following 'Stiff as a Board' Las Vegas Performance Video
"The people that's got a lot to say, you don't understand how this paying homage and having respect for people..." the "Made for Me" singer began.
"She asked me to do it," Long said of the night's honoree. "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."
"I did my best, and that's all I can do," the Grammy winner continued.
Long went on to note that she had "footage" of Carey praising the performance, however she wouldn't be posting it "because [Carey's] lighting wasn't right. And I'm not gonna do that to my girl. You know how Ms. Carey is about her lighting."
Related: Mariah Carey Reveals Her Thoughts on Twins Roc and Roe Pursuing Careers in Entertainment (Exclusive)
"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."
Long continued by thanking her supporters who "love me and uplift me," before flipping off her critics.
On Wednesday, Carey applauded Long, as well as Tori Kelly, who paid tribute to Carey with a rendition of "Always Be My Baby" at Monday's award show. Carey posted a photo of the trio on her Instagram Stories, writing, "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. I love and appreciate you so much!!!"
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In a clip posted by iHeartRadio on Instagram, Carey is seen smiling after Long belts out her final note.
Long also expressed gratitude for the moment and commented on the post, "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."
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