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Mariah Carey’s ‘The Emancipation of Mimi’: All 18 Original Tracks Ranked for Its 20th Anniversary (Staff Picks)
Mariah Carey's 'The Emancipation of Mimi' songs ranked, from the original tracks to deluxe version songs.
Mimi lithely navigates the highs and lows of heartbreak on this deep cut, letting insecurities creep in as she wonders, “Is this just an impossible dream, baby?/ Too elusive to pursue/ It’s been such a sad and windy road for me/ Just searchin’ for the truth.” Meanwhile, Twista offers himself up as a motor-mouthed knight in shining armor on his characteristically tongue-twisting guest verse. Positioned as a spiritual sequel to album cut “One and Only,” this bonus track manages to outdo its predecessor thanks to Carey’s floaty falsetto and a special touch from producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, who employs a furious string section, hollowed out handclaps and the plinking strains of a music box to build an elevated soundscape worth swooning over. The result is a percussive, party-ready romp putting the cool chemistry between the pair on display as they vow, “Whatever happens, it’s goin’ down tonight.” Thankfully, the dance party is meant for more than two as Nelly follows the flirting up by ordering “Everybody to the floor!” on what could’ve easily been another radio hit for Mimi had it been selected as a single.
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