Muni Long has issued a response to fans who had critiques about her tribute to Mariah Carey. On Monday (March 17), the R&B singer performed “We Belong Together” in Carey’s honor at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards as the veteran was being honored as an industry icon.
During her time on stage, a camera panned to Mariah Carey as she looked away. The internet memed the moment and suggested the Butterfly singer’s face was a message about Muni Long’s delivery. After the event, Muni Long took to TikTok to address the alleged shade-throwing side-eye.
“The people that’s got a lot to say, you don’t understand how this paying homage and having respect for people…” the 36-year-old explained. “She asked me to do it… You thought I chose to get on TV and sing a Mariah Carey song? You thought that was my choice? Why would I do that? Nobody can sing Mariah’s songs like Mariah. Nobody.”
The “Made For Me” performer continued to explain, “I did my best, and that’s all I can do.”
Elsewhere in the live broadcast, she explained, “She told me I did a great job, she appreciated it. And that’s it. Once again, if she pushed me down the stairs, if she told me she hated it, I would say thank you. That’s what I would say.”
Mariah Carey also responded to the critique, uplifting both Muni Long and Tori Kelly, who also sang during the tribute.
“So beyond grateful for these two gorgeous, uber-talented, kind, incredible musicians who made my heart so full of joy with their tribute performances at the @iheartradio awards,” wrote the 55-year-old on her Instagram story.
“I love and appreciate you so much!!!”
Take a look at the performance above and check out Mariah Carey’s social media upload below.
Instagram screenshot/ @MARIAHCAREY
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