Mariah Carey was lovingly labeled the musical “blueprint” by her new friend SZA during a heartfelt moment ahead of the Grammys.
On Friday (January 30), the TDE singer-songwriter honored Carey at the MusiCares Person of the Year Charity Gala. Other artists who paid tribute to the five-time Grammy winner included Kesha, Jermaine Dupri, and Teddy Swims.
“I’m so honored to be here tonight celebrating my friend — insane to say that — as MusiCares Person of the Year,” SZA said. “I speak for so many when I say thank you, Mariah. Your songwriting, your voice, your production, your business — you’re not just a powerhouse, you’re a blueprint.”
SZA followed up her tribute to Carey by welcoming John Legend to the stage, where he delivered a moving performance of Carey’s 1993 No. 1 hit, “Hero.”
The night also featured performances from Foo Fighters and Taylor Momsen, who performed songs from Carey’s secret grunge album, Someone’s Ugly Daughter, along with appearances by Charlie Puth, Billy Porter, FLO, Jennifer Hudson, and more.
Back in October, SZA hosted a Flowers conversation with Carey for Gamma and Apple Music during the rollout of Carey’s 16th studio album, Here for It All. During the discussion, SZA showed love to Carey’s hidden 1995 grunge project, Someone’s Ugly Daughter, and even convinced her to play tracks “Hermit” and “Love is a Scam.”
“It was the most refreshing thing I’ve heard all year. It was so beautiful,” SZA said about “Love is a Scam,” adding that fans “need” the full album.
Last September, Mariah Carey and SZA made headlines after sending each other bouquets of flowers, which they shared on their Instagram Stories while teasing a collaboration that ultimately turned out to be their live discussion.
