Mariah Carey continues on the upward trajectory on “The Distance,” the third single from her anticipated comeback album, ‘Caution.’ Ty Dolla $ign assists.

In 2014, Mariah Carey experienced one of the more disappointing commercial performances for an album in her career.  Although the oft-delayed Me. I Am Mariah…The Elusive Chanteuse proved to be another quality project, it simply didn’t perform particularly well.  Backtrack to the album prior to that project, Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel, and Carey only managed to earn a gold plaque from the RIAA.  Despite experiencing more pedestrian sales as of late, something feels different about her forthcoming project, Caution (November 16, 2018).  So far, Carey seems to be off to a respectable start with singles “GTFO” and “With You”.  “The Distance,” featuring Ty Dolla $ign, continues to upswing for one of music’s most compelling vocalists.

“The Distance” keeps Mariah Carey relevant, which is notable considering she’s 48 – no longer the youthful 20-year old who wowed the world in 1990.  The good news is that Carey remains youthful on this super-sleek, synth-driven R&B ballad.  The fast-paced, hip-hop infused melodic lines continue to be Carey’s best friend, while the voice remains potent.  Sure, she doesn’t do nearly as many vocal aerobics, but her tone remains pure and untouchable, something that can’t be said for everyone her age.  So basically, “age ain’t nothin’ but a number.”  As for Ty Dolla $ign, he doesn’t play a huge role here, but nor does he need to.  It’s neat that his unique vocal ad-libs are used throughout to accentuate the production – almost like an instrument.

Final Thoughts 

All in all, “The Distance” gives Mimi another solid addition to her vast music catalogue.  In regards to Caution, the motto “so far, so good” is applicable without question.  Hopefully, Caution will give Carey the comeback she deserves – she’s an icon.  Whether the LP overachieves like say The Emancipation of Mimi seems over-optimistic, but, hopefully it takes her back to/near the top.

Mariah Carey • Caution • Epic • Release: 11.16.18

Photo Credit: Epic