Kehlani Calls Mariah Carey a ‘Hero’ in Emotional Tribute Following Their Collaboration: ‘This Woman Is the Definition of an Icon’….see more…
In a heartfelt tribute that reverberated across social media, Kehlani praised Mariah Carey after the release of their surprise collaboration, calling the pop legend her “hero” and “the definition of an icon.” The post, which accompanied a behind-the-scenes photo of the two artists, offered fans a glimpse into the emotional weight of the moment for the 29-year-old singer, who has long cited Carey as one of her biggest inspirations.
On Thursday, Kehlani took to Instagram to reflect on the experience of working with the five-time Grammy winner, expressing deep admiration and gratitude. “This woman is the definition of an icon,” Kehlani wrote. “A hero. A dream to so many of us. And yet, here she is—humble, kind, radiant, and still doing what she loves most.”
The collaboration, titled “Through the Rain (Reimagined),” is a rework of Carey’s 2002 ballad and is part of a larger project celebrating the legacy of early 2000s R&B and pop. Kehlani, known for her sultry voice and emotional storytelling, brings a fresh touch to the track, harmonizing with Carey’s original vocals while adding her own modern spin. The result is a soaring duet that blends the strengths of both artists—Carey’s iconic whistle tones and layered vocal runs, and Kehlani’s warm, textured delivery.
In her post, Kehlani described how surreal the experience was. “I grew up blasting Mariah’s music, dancing to her videos, and mimicking her runs in the mirror,” she wrote. “Getting the chance to not only meet her, but to sing with her—this is beyond full circle. This is divine.”
Fans of both artists flooded the comments with emotional reactions, many praising Kehlani for honoring Carey’s legacy while also shining in her own right. “You can feel the love and reverence in every note,” one user commented. Another wrote, “Mariah passing the torch to Kehlani is everything!”
For Carey, who has mentored a number of younger artists throughout her three-decade career, the collaboration is another example of her willingness to uplift and support the next generation of musicians. In her own response to Kehlani’s tribute, Carey reposted the message to her Instagram Stories with the caption: “So much love for you, Kehlani! This was such a joy.”
The mutual respect between the two stars has not gone unnoticed. Music critics and industry insiders have praised the duet not only for its vocal excellence but also for its emotional depth. “You can hear the sincerity in Kehlani’s voice—this isn’t just a feature, it’s a moment,” said R&B journalist Taryn O’Hara. “Mariah’s music shaped an era, and Kehlani is helping to carry that legacy forward with grace and power.”
Kehlani has long been open about the artists who shaped her sound. In past interviews, she’s credited Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and Beyoncé as key influences—but Carey has always stood in a league of her own for the Oakland native. “Mariah taught me that emotion is a strength in music,” Kehlani once said in a 2020 Billboard interview. “She made vulnerability powerful.”
This latest collaboration caps off a major year for Kehlani, who recently released her fourth studio album, Crashland, to critical acclaim. The album dives deep into themes of heartbreak, healing, and personal evolution, and features production from long-time collaborators as well as newer voices in the R&B scene. “Through the Rain (Reimagined)” is not included on the album, but Kehlani has hinted it may be part of an upcoming deluxe edition or standalone visual project.
In addition to her music, Kehlani has also used her platform to speak out on mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial justice. Her willingness to be open and vulnerable—on and off the stage—has earned her a loyal fan base that spans generations. Many of those fans see the Carey collaboration as more than just a duet—it’s a passing of the torch, a celebration of resilience and womanhood.
Mariah Carey, who recently wrapped her latest Las Vegas residency and is gearing up for the 20th anniversary celebration of her Charmbracelet album, continues to maintain her presence in the ever-changing music landscape. Known for her songwriting prowess, five-octave vocal range, and holiday dominance, Carey has sold over 220 million records worldwide and influenced countless artists across genres.
This kind of cross-generational collaboration is a testament to Carey’s enduring legacy and her continued relevance. For Kehlani, it marks a new chapter of creative freedom and validation. “To be seen and supported by someone like Mariah—it’s everything,” Kehlani said. “It reminds me that I’m on the right path, that my voice matters.”
As for what’s next, Kehlani teased that more surprises could be on the way. In a follow-up Instagram Story, she hinted at an upcoming performance with Carey and a possible music video for the duet. While details remain scarce, fans are already clamoring for more. “This isn’t just a song,” one fan tweeted. “It’s a cultural reset.”
Whether it’s a one-time event or the beginning of a larger artistic partnership, “Through the Rain (Reimagined)” has already left an indelible mark. It’s a poignant reminder of the power of mentorship, the beauty of artistic evolution, and the magic that happens when two generations of talent unite.
In a world where music often feels fleeting, moments like this feel timeless. Kehlani and Mariah Carey didn’t just sing together—they told a story of legacy, admiration, and love. And fans ac
ross the globe are listening.
