Mariah Carey Opens Up About Heartfelt Advice from Late Mother
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/mariah-carey--mom-323-092525-dc8bfe35cfff46b886b45a5b319da63b.jpg)

In a touching moment at Apple Music’s Flowers event at Lincoln Center in New York City, Mariah Carey shared a deeply personal story, talking about her late mother, Patricia Carey. The singer, known as the Songbird Supreme, sat down with SZA to discuss her life, career, and upcoming album “Here for It All.” Mariah, 56, became emotional as she recalled a piece of advice that her mother used to give her.
During the conversation, Mariah reminisced about how her mother, who passed away in 2024, always encouraged her with strong words of wisdom. She tearfully recounted her mother’s advice, saying, “I think one of the main things that she said, the one thing she said to me, and it was clear, and it was right there.” She continued, “She said, ‘Don’t say if I make it. Say when I make it.’ So… I’m going to get emotional.”

The vulnerability and authenticity in Mariah’s recollection struck a chord with SZA, who offered words of comfort and support to the iconic singer. SZA expressed admiration for Mariah’s strength, highlighting the special bond between a mother and child. The two artists shared an emotional embrace during this heartfelt moment, with SZA affirming that Mariah’s late mother would be proud of her achievements and her role as a mother to her twins, Moroccan and Monroe.
Reflecting on her mother’s influence on her career, Mariah spoke about the connection between her mother’s background as an opera singer and her own musical journey. She revealed that her mother had made her opera debut at Lincoln Center, shaping Mariah’s early exposure to music. Mariah fondly remembered her mother’s strong personality, describing her as a “diva” in the true sense of the word, which she has embraced and embodied throughout her own career.
The conversation also delved into the complexities of Mariah’s relationship with her mother, particularly in light of the loss of both her mother and her estranged sister, Alison, on the same day in August 2024. Mariah candidly discussed the challenges of processing this loss and navigating her emotions during a CBS Mornings interview earlier in the week. Despite the difficulties she faced, Mariah found solace in music and her upcoming album, “Here for It All,” set to release on Friday, Sept. 26.
As Mariah Carey continues to honour her mother’s memory through her music and her reflections on their bond, fans and listeners are touched by the authenticity and vulnerability she brings to her artistry. The depth of emotion and personal growth that Mariah displays in sharing her experiences is a testament to the enduring legacy of love and guidance passed down through generations.
In a moment of raw emotion and profound connection, Mariah Carey’s recollection of her late mother’s advice serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of maternal wisdom and love. The bond between mother and daughter transcends time and space, weaving a thread of strength and resilience through life’s challenges and triumphs.
As Mariah’s journey continues to unfold, her mother’s words echo in her heart, reminding her to approach life with determination and belief in her own success. Through her music and her memories, Mariah Carey pays tribute to the woman who shaped her into the icon she is today, carrying forward a legacy of love and inspiration that will resonate for years to come.
