Mariah Carey, Out Here on My Own (2000) | Track Review 🎵

Mariah Carey unleashes “Out Here on My Own,” a cover of the classic Fame record, the second single released in advance of The Rarities. 

After compelling us with “Save the Day”, Mariah Carey has released another single from her highly anticipated compilation, The Rarities (October 2, 2020).  This time, she opts for a cover with “Out Here on My Own.” “Out Here on My Own” is an Academy award nominated Best Original Song (1980) from the movie, Fame, originally performed by Irene Cara.  The record was written by Lesley Gore and Michael Gore. This version is produced by Carey.

“Out Here on My Own” begins abruptly with piano accompaniment and Carey’s gorgeous vocals. A ballad, this is where Carey’s bread has always been buttered. Once more, Mimi is incredibly successful here. The production grows fuller with the addition of strings. Likewise, Carey’s vocals grow more assertive and more powerful. She does a nice job throughout, never forcing things, but also always channeling the right emotions and hitting all the right notes. For those unfamiliar with “Out Here on My Own” beforehand, she does a good job making it sound ‘brand-new’ even if it is four decades old.

Final Thoughts 

Does the pendulum swing for Mariah Carey upon the release of “Out Here on My Own?” No, of course not.  Is “Out Here on My Own” as compelling as “Save the Day” when it was released weeks earlier out of nowhere? No. That said, this is another fine addition to Carey’s illustrious collection. She’s releasing rarities, not a brand-new studio album, so, it makes sense that this cover from 2000 made the cut. Ultimately, she does a great job delivering it.

Mariah Carey • The Rarities • Columbia • Release: 10.2.20

Photo Credit: Columbia