As the holiday season rolls around, there is always a change in the atmosphere. From the weather to the scenery to the music, holidays like Christmas are their own little world of magic, merriment, and heartwarming festivities. And in this new world, music plays a huge role, especially holiday songs. On top of the cheerful, nostalgic music industry is American singer Mariah Carey, the queen of Christmas. 

Known for her holiday songs, Carey always beams in the spotlight around this time of year. At 51-years-old, this pop star has achieved a great deal, having 19 No. 1 hits, and more than 200 million records sold worldwide. She’s known for hits like “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” “Without You,” and “I Don’t Wanna Cry.”

“My favorite Mariah Carey song is ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ because it’s a classic,” said sophomore Joss Lau. “I hear it everywhere I go.” 

Carey showed amazing music potential as a child. Receiving voice lessons at the age of 4-years-old, she managed to develop a five-octave vocal range, an impressive feat for artists all across the world. Her powerful voice led to immense success in her debut single “Vision of Love.” Under the guidance of Columbia Records executive Tommy Mottola, Carey released her debut album, ‘Emotions.’ Additionally, she has many other tracks that led her to be crowned the Artist of the Decade, the 1990s, by Billboard, and the title “Best Selling Female Pop Artist of the Millennium” by the World Music Awards. After parting ways with Columbia Records, Carey signed a $100 million contract with Virgin Records but was followed by a flop era and an emotional breakdown. Carey then signed to Island Records, regaining her status with “The Emancipation of Mimi,” which became the best-selling album in the U.S. of 2005.

“I have a Christmas playlist on Spotify, and there’s so much Mariah Carey on there,” said sophomore Shahid Shaikh.

Carey, because of her success and skill, is often referred to as the “Supreme Songbird.” Her powerful register, famous whistle notes, and melismatic singing style put her on top. Carey perfectly captures the warm and cozy feelings of the holiday, providing that relaxing and jolly atmosphere we all love during the holidays. Carey’s voice will be heard from radios to personal playlists to public settings; her songs being often replayed around the world when the holiday season comes, giving her the power of the music industry.