In April 2008, Mariah Carey debuted her 11th studio album, E=MC². This project would not only change the course of music, but of the star’s entire career, as we previously knew it.
Before this LP, Carey had been a well-honored musical virtuoso in the game for many years. She released her very first single “Vision Of Love” back in 1990 and immediately captivated the hearts and ears of millions of people who couldn’t get enough of her mind-blowing talent. Carey had -- and still does -- an iconic voice, one that you hear maybe only once or twice in an entire lifetime. It's a true gift.
Aside from fellow superstars like Whitney Houston, Carey stood in a class of her own from day one. Years would pass and albums would continue to be released, smashing countless records, and solidifying Carey’s place in music history.
That brings us to E=MC². This album is one of the most memorable albums that the recording artist ever released for a number of major reasons. From the timeless singles that came from the project, to the way that Carey care freely expressed herself on it, to the album showing her growth and risky side when she tried new things and so much more, Carey’s 11th studio album altered the star's legacy she would leave on this earth for the better. After all, the number 11 does symbolize the manifestation of someone’s true self. So, it’s no shock that Carey would give us every single honest thing that she had on this project, so we could’ve seen what she was truly made of.
E=MC²'s release was a pivotal moment in the singer’s life and career. Let’s take a look at the top five reasons that made the album such an iconic, stand out project for her.
"Touch My Body" Broke Records
“Touch My Body” became Carey's 18th No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, which resulted in her becoming the soloist with the most songs in that spot ever. She surpassed Elvis Presley, who has 17 songs in the position.
But Wait... More "Touch My Body" Records Ahead
"Touch My Body" also gave Carey her 79th week at the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This made her tie with Presley for having the most weeks in the position in history.
E=MC² Finally Made Mariah Liberated
E=MC² was the first album she felt liberated on. In a previous interview with NME, the star said: "Basically, I'm freer on this album than I've ever been. Some of the songs on the last album were cool but maybe not quite as neat as this album."
Plus, while speaking to The Bryan Times, Carey added: "I think that having the success with the last record allowed me to have more freedom...and just make records that I like. It's kind of a really fun record."
E=MC² Challenged Mimi To Switch Up Her Style
Since she felt more free, Carey switched her singing style up a bit, and tried Reggae and Gospel-hymn type songs for the first time. Damian Marley is even featured on the album.
E=MC² Gave Mimi Another Accolade In Her Groundbreaking Career
E=MC² sold 463,000 copies in its first week, which is Carey's highest first week sales in her entire career. Such a boss.