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About this_is_qhm from the Philippines: I love the intricate vocal harmonies only Mariah can make.

Re: Accelerate (82,313) (82,320) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines Back To Basics was actually good; it remains her most cohesive album to date. A little overlong, but still good. Not everyone can pull off an entirely retro-themed album complete with an image rehaul and everything, and that she decided to take that plunge in 2006 took major balls. It paid off and still managed to sell well, especially for an album of such sound. It was after that that things really started to go downhill - fast. Bionic was a very uneven album with clunky singles and where many of the best tracks were pushed aside as bonuses. It came out at a time when GaGa and Ke$ha were ruling the charts with better and/or catchier material, so that most definitely didn't help. And Lotus was, well, it was what it was. I have a sinking feeling that Liberation is gonna end up worse than Katy's Witness or JT's Man Of The Woods commercially. Let's see how it does critically. (Monday 7 May 2018; 06:25)

Re: Accelerate (82,316) (82,319) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines I appreciate the (not entirely) new direction she's taking, and I like the song's "chorus", if you can call it that. The featured rappers just ruin it for me. Their appearances in the song are just jarring, they practically hijacked it. And the video, while interesting and colorful, seems to be inspired by this weird mouth-tongue-lube fetish. Christina's lead off singles are usually not the best songs on the album, so I still have great hopes for Liberation. (Monday 7 May 2018; 06:10)

Re: Take your time MC (82,308) (82,310) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines True, especially that part about Christina's underwhelming "comeback" single. It really sounds like several songs stitched into one - it makes Mariah's own execution of the Frankenstein approach, Infinity, look so cohesive by comparison. And about Kanye - when exactly did he really lose his touch? I can't believe the one responsible for this mess is this is the same person who produced Madonna's sleek "Illuminati", Brandy's brilliant "Talk About Our Love", Janet's highly underrated "I Want You", and even Mariah's lovely Stay The Night, among other hits. (Sunday 6 May 2018; 11:46)

Christina Aguilera's carpool karaoke (82,141) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines So Crhistina who is long overdue for a driving session with James Corden has finally done it and it's short and sweet, with the hilarious Melissa McCarthy jumping in for about half of the video. Now we all know Christina doesn't have the healthiest of singing techniques especially when it comes to belting, where she comes across way too brash, but we gotta give the girl some credit. Like past Mariah (and maybe present Mariah on a good day and in a controlled environment), she does an impressive job of sounding almost exactly, if not exactly like the studio recordings of her past hits. But what's really great about the video is that unlike Mariah's "over it, can't be bothered" attitude in both times she featured in Carpool Karaoke, Christina comes across as a down-to-earth diva who's not acting like she's drunk or sedated, but actually responsive game for anything. Not like Mariah needs to do this segment for a third time, but in case she does, I hope she finally understands how it works and acts accordingly. (Wednesday 25 April 2018; 12:47)

Re: I Like That (82,099) (82,103) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines Sorry, I didn't mean to sound cruel, but I just don't know how pretty much everyone else can put out great, creative videos while a legend like Mariah can't even put an effort to do something that's more than just passable or an afterthought. Budget is most definitely not the issue. Maybe she's just reached a point in her career where she feels entitled to loosen up and not exercise the usual creative control that she would put into all of her videos. And in a very visual generation, especially for a middle-aged artist, that just won't do. (Monday 23 April 2018; 05:33)

Re: List (82,081) (82,093) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines Favorite albums: Daydream, Butterfly, Rainbow Favorite album tracks: Melt Away, Fourth Of July, Make It Look Good, It's A Wrap, Faded, Dedicated, Circles, Butterfly, Your Girl Favorite tracks that should have been singles: Cruise Control, Migrate, Alone In Love, Ribbon Favorite promo single: Underneath The Stars Favorite #1 songs: Fantasy, Honey, Heartbreaker, We Belong Together Most underrated singles: The Roof, Boy (I Need You), Crybaby, The Roof, Never Too Far, Angels Cry, Can't Take That Away, Through The Rain Favorite bonus tracks: There Goes My Heart, Heat, Miss You, 4real 4real Favorite b-side: Slipping Away Favorite vocal performance: Lead The Way, Butterfly, Can't Take That Away Favorite high notes: Lead The Way, Circles Favorite videos: Honey, Boy (I Need You), Don't Forget About Us, Breakdown, My All, Up Out My Face (this marks the last time Mariah put an effort to really perform in a video) Funniest videos: Heartbreaker, Touch My Body, Up Out My Face, I Don't (for all the wrong reasons) Favorite remake/cover: Didn't Mean To Turn You On, One More Try Favorite collaboration: Fantasy (Remix), Dedicated, Every Time I Close My Eyes, Up Out My Face (yes, Mariah works well with Nicki musically), Whenever You Call, Heartbreaker, One Sweet Day Favorite gospel songs: Fly Like A Bird, My Saving Grace Favorite holiday songs: All I Want For Christmas Is You, Miss You Most, Christmas Time Is In the Air Again, When Christmas Comes, Charlie Brown Christmas Favorite dance mix: Loverboy (Dreamy Club of Love Radio Edit), Honey (Def Club Mix) Favorite urban remix: Heartbreaker (Remix) Favorite era: Daydream, Butterfly, The Emancipation of Mimi (Sunday 22 April 2018; 12:42)

Re: I Like That (82,076) (82,091) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines Janelle Monae is the definition of a modern artist that tries to defy all expectations with every release. I Like That is great but have you seen her latest video released before that, Pynk, that's basically a tribute to the female genitalia? That's how you do sexy without being trashy, no matter how tongue-in-cheek or too on-the-nose the approach may be. The visuals have always been on point for this girl, even more so for the songs she's released from this new project. Makes you wonder how someone as huge as Mariah could only afford to do something as cheap and basic as Infinity, You're Mine and I Don't. Janelle is also criminally underrated, but I'm really looking forward to Dirty Computer when it drops on Friday, as well as its accompanying short film that will precede its release. (Sunday 22 April 2018; 08:13)

Lisa Stansfield - Deeper (81,726) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines So Lisa's back. Deeper is Lisa's best album since Face Up. I can draw many similarities between her career and Mariah's. They both broke out pretty much around the same period, both were initially branded "white girls who sing like black girls", both were nominated for the two Grammys that Mariah won in 1991, both have released albums in 1991, 1993, 1997, 2001 and 2014, both have smoked in the past (Lisa stopped more recently) and both have also shown a noticeable vocal decline since the 90s. While Mariah still has a wider vocal range than Lisa, both of their distinctive voices have changed similarly as well - the smooth, buttery tone is almost gone, the delivery is noticeably more labored if not forced with the fluidity greatly reduced, and the overall texture has gone darker, huskier, drier and thicker. In a weird way, because of these similarities, I feel like it's a peek into what Mariah's upcoming album and its possible sound - more of the expected, some surprises here and there and a more mature voice that has suffered some wear and tear over the years yet wears its scars proudly. (Tuesday 10 April 2018; 11:52)

Re: "Rainbow" era (81,534) (81,543) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines I'm still not over the fact that possibly the best image from the Rainbow era, that "twisty top cloud" pic, was scrapped as the official cover art of the album in favor of that try-hard overly photoshopped mess of an image that manages to make Mariah look like an oompa loompa complexion-wise. Even the tip of her bent left elbow looks like part of it was chipped off. I am not afraid of color except when it looks tacky. And that album cover is not only cheesy, it's also tacky. The music, though a step down from that of its predecessors, is still fun and enjoyable. Even its sequel (in my eyes, MOAIA) somehow sounds more dated than the tracks on Rainbow. If this album was the result of Mariah working under pressure in possibly the worst situation she has been in during the 90s, then that stilll speaks to her talent and capabilities, as these songs did sound a lot of what was on-trend in 1999, but in the hands of less capable artists, they would definitely have been a disaster. (Tuesday 27 March 2018; 10:32)

Toni Braxton - Sex and Cigarettes (81,483) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines This album (I actually consider it more of an EP due to its length) is the epitome of "short and sweet". It has the signature emotive, classy Toni sound, but the overall vibe is pitched more between Pulse (her last solo effort) and Love, Marriage & Divorce (duet album with Babyface). For an 8-track release, some songs are stronger than others, but I'm really digging Sorry (the beat of which reminds me of You're Making Me High) and My Heart along with the previously released Deadwood and Long As I Live (far and away the best track of the bunch). The title track is good and FOH has a memorable hook, but the last 2 tracks are exactly the type of upbeat songs that she should avoid as they sound the most generic. Still, it's a great, enjoyable album where the pros outweigh the cons. Welcome back, Toni. You've been missed. As for Mariah, I hope she goes for quality over quantity on her upcoming release. We'd all prefer a 10-12 track album filled with hits rather than one with an 80-minute running time bloated with fillers. (Friday 23 March 2018; 09:30)

And even more clusters (last ones, I swear) (81,452) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines The Conversations with the Mirror: Looking In Reflections Twister Petals Languishing Close My Eyes The Divine Awakening: Music Box I Am Free My Saving Grace Fly Like A Bird The Heartbreak Hotel: Miss You Alone In Love Can't Let Go Breakdown H.A.T.E.U. Crybaby Babydoll Cry. Circles Camouflage Without You Never Forget You Angels Cry Mine Again One More Try The Acceptance: The Wind Forever Always Be My Baby Rainbow Interlude Butterfly Never Too Far The Happy Ending: 4real4real Melt Away Joy Ride You're Mine Lead The Way Thank God I Found You (Wednesday 21 March 2018; 04:41)

Re: More clusters (81,441) (81,442) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines Sure, try listening to them in such sequences. There is a narrative behind most. I guess you can't go wrong with such a brilliant, expansive catalog to choose from. (Tuesday 20 March 2018; 12:34)

More clusters (81,440) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines The party starter playlist: It's Like That Migrate Meteorite So Lonely I Know What You Want I'm That Chick Sweetheart Didn't Mean To Turn You On The "move on, bish": Betcha Gon' Know Side Effects You Don't Know What To Do Up Out My Face Shake It Off It's A Wrap You Had Your Chance Obsessed Thirsty The ultimate summer flirtation mix: Cruise Control #Beautiful There Goes my Heart I'll Be Lovin' U Long Time Dedicated Ribbon Make It Look Good Subtle Invitation The reminisce bundle: The Roof Lullaby Candy Bling (Tuesday 20 March 2018; 04:06)

Re: Clusters (81,424) (81,431) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines I do have a few of such "clusters" or special mini playlists that I put on depending on my mood. The string of sample-heavy lead singles: Dreamlover Fantasy Honey Heartbreaker Loverboy The buck-up power pack: Outside Can't Take That Away Through The Rain I Wish You Well Heavenly The WBT and its attempted recreations: We Belong Together Don't Forget About Us I Stay In Love Love Story Last Kiss Faded The dreamy, sparkly, saccharine cotton candy cloud of reverie: Underneath The Stars Fourth Of July Bliss Yours Supernatural And the Latin summer fling: My All After Tonight I Only Wanted (Monday 19 March 2018; 13:00)

Top Streaming Female Artists (81,306) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines Mariah is the oldest artist on this list, having the longest career. Granted, this is mostly due to AIWFCIY, but still, how do you define legend? (Friday 9 March 2018; 05:23)

Re: Butterfly vs. Ray of Light (81,139) (81,142) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines We have quite similar tastes. Take A Bow is my favorite Madonna song, and one of my favorite songs of all time. It remains Babyface's best display of his producing talent in my opinion. And yes, I love The Heat as well. I really enjoy the songs you mentioned, the title track, Gimme Some, Fairy Tale, I'm Still Breathing, Speaking in Tongues and of course Just Be A Man About It (just realized I've named half of the album). Haha. (Sunday 25 February 2018; 15:49)

Re: Butterfly vs. Ray of Light (81,133) (81,136) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines I agree. Toni's first two albums are just golden. And I'd swap out the Waiting to Exhale Soundtrack for Madonna's most underrated album, the hushed tones of Bedtime Stories. About Falling Into You - that album has many of Celine's classics, but there's a reason why it's always on the list of least deserving Grammy Album of the Year winners. I'd even much prefer Let's Talk About Love for its more diverse sound. Why Oh Why is something Mariah would have owned better. Its slinky vibe would have fit right into Butterfly. (Sunday 25 February 2018; 12:30)

Madge's Ray Of Light is 20 years old (81,085) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines Not a Mariah post, but whatever. Happy 20th year of greatness to one of the finest albums of the 90s, Ray Of Light. All electronica tracks that came after this has borrowed a thing or two or more from it. This cemented Madonna's status as the Queen of Reinvention. I still listen to Drowned World, Frozen, The Power of Good-bye and especially the title track to this day. So good. (Thursday 22 February 2018; 16:52)

Re: Toni Braxton - Long As I Live (80,963) (81,001) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines Love, Marriage & Divorce was gold. A classic for both Babyface and Toni Braxton. Reunited and The D Word are gorgeous songs. I hope Mariah gets less allergic to sung duets in general, especially with another female artist, and make a duets album in the future. (Saturday 17 February 2018; 15:30)

Re: Article: Michelle Obama's Valentine's Day playlist (80,962) (81,000) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines Finally, someone who thinks the same. Always Be My Baby is the creepiest song Mariah has ever written if you really think about it. But the melody and production makes the cocky, smug lyrics sound sweet and even innocent. But still, it's not as creepy as my favorite, the ultimate stalker anthem of all time, Morrissey's The More You Ignore Me, The Closer I Get. That ups the creep factor and is just some weird, psychopathic, restraining order-filing stuff wrapped in a great melody. (Saturday 17 February 2018; 15:14)

Toni Braxton - Long As I Live (80,918) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines Her upcoming studio album Sex & Cigarettes (coming out next month) is shaping up to be classic Toni. If Deadwood was great, Long As I Live is, if there is any justice in the world, a smash. She's still got it. This is her sound through and through. It has great repeat value. I don't think the credits are out yet, but this sounds very much like a Babyface production (is that him on the background vocals?). Beautiful. Sidebar: I'd much rather Mariah get back with Babyface than Jermaine Dupri. Melt Away is one of the best songs on Daydream, and that's saying something. (Wednesday 14 February 2018; 12:54)

Super blue blood moon (80,741) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines Suddenly the phrase "once in a lifetime" takes on a bigger meaning. Let us all be grateful for this moment, one that we may never get to witness again in this lifetime, that for some reason, we have been the extreenly blessed ones chosen to witness this rare phenomenon. It's one thing to see an eclipse. Another to get a glimpse of a blue moon. And another to catch a blood moon. But to watch all three unfold right in front of our very eyes is not just unbelievable - it's destined. And that's how all of us managed to be together whilst being oceans and lands apart. Happy Lunar Trifecta y'all. (Wednesday 31 January 2018; 14:44)

Grammys 2018 (80,715) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines I believe Bruno's sweep is a side effect of what's going on in America right now. 2017 brought to light Trump's reign and the #MeToo / Time's Up movement. Everyone is a little on edge right now. And everyone needed a break - something fun, light and buoyant, if a little shallow and dumbed down. That's what 24K Magic exactly was. it provided a joyous escape, and so people looking for lighter moments turned to that album and its hits as a distraction. When everything else is dark, the lighter ones stand out all the more. Not to discredit 24K Magic - that album, as a step-down it may be for Bruno lyrically and thematically, is still his best work to date due to its lean, sheer, impeccable craftsmanship and cohesion as a body of work. Kendrick's Damn. and Lorde's Melodrama are better and much more deserving, but that isn't to say that Bruno's outing was not competition - it's difficult to pull off a 90s concept album. The Grammys have always been notorious for choosing the safest bets as winners over the years (Christopher Cross, Falling Into You, River: The Joni Letters, 1989, 25) and what happened this year is no different. Even more disappointing are That's What I Like's wins over SZA and Julia Michaels in their respective categories, as well as 24K Magic winning Record of the Year when it's basically a lesser recreation of Uptown Funk. But the biggest disappointment of the night is probably SZA and Julia Michaels losing Best New Artist to Alessia Cara, who released her debut album back in 2015. Oh well. Thankfully, performances by Kendrick, U2, Kesha, Cardi B and Bruno were there to somehow to (unsuccessfully) save the night. (Monday 29 January 2018; 13:43)

Re: Mariah's most inspiring song (80,620) (80,689) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines For me, it's Outside. This is actually a depressing, more of a wallowing-in-your-sad-state kinda song rather than an outright inspirational one, but while there are so many buck-up songs out there (a handful by Mariah herself), there are only several songs about acceptance. As they say, the first step to conquering any difficulty is acknowledging that it exists and that it's happening to you in the first place, and that's exactly what Outside helps you with. It forces you to feel the painful reality of not fitting in anywhere so that you could realize that in the end, no matter how hard you try, you will still never fit in because that boring life isn't for you - because God put you on this earth to stand out - and that eventually puts you in a better position and mindset to accept just how special you are and learn to take comfort in the pain, uplift yourself and survive. (Sunday 28 January 2018; 10:03)

Re: Interesting question (80,593) (80,603) by this_is_qhm from the Philippines Well, if you put it that way, there really isn't a flip of a switch, a snap, or something that sounds like an overnight/instant kind of change. I guess it may be explained by the fact that Mariah fans well, not really analyze, but experience and appreciate her vocals in different ways. For me, and I know others as well, I happen to notice differences on how her voice generally sounds with every album including her live vocals during that period. That approach (wow, making this sound like a study now haha) may be a little too simplistic and even weird but obviously some of us do it. Similarly, others also the same, but focus not on the technical aspect of her voice but, how it, well, "makes them feel", which I imagine is even harder to explain. (Wednesday 24 January 2018; 19:45)

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