Mariah Carey and Vevo debuted a new episode of Footnotes, taking viewers behind-the-scenes of “We Belong Together,” celebrating the 20th anniversary of the record-breaking hit that became one of the most successful songs of her career.

 

 

In the episode, Mariah reflects on the creation and storytelling behind the iconic song and its place within The Emancipation of Mimi. She shares how the track was one of the last written for the album, created during a collaborative session with Jermaine Dupri that also produced “It’s Like That” and “Shake It Off.” Mariah discusses her intention to make the album feel current while staying true to her signature style, trying to create songs that would become modern classics.

The video for “We Belong Together” continues the narrative that began with “It’s Like That,” forming a dramatic love triangle storyline starring Wentworth Miller and Eric Roberts. Mariah shares her excitement about telling a story across two music videos and expresses appreciation for her label’s support and the creative freedom she was given. She also reveals behind-the-scenes details and fashion choices, like wearing the dress from her first wedding, which helped save on the video’s budget and filming additional scenes during a promo tour in London. The result is a cinematic and emotional piece that has resonated with fans for nearly two decades.

Mariah will release a suite of special 20th anniversary edition releases of The Emancipation of Mimi on May 30 via Def Jam Records/UMe. The marquee release is a gorgeous, limited edition 5LP vinyl box set, personally compiled by Mariah to bring together the musical world she created, and continues to create, around this masterwork. As elaborate as it is all-encompassing, this ultimate fan-must have combines the original album and beloved tracks from the Ultra Platinum Edition, such as the hit single “Don’t Forget About Us,” “Makin’ It Last All Night (What It Do),” “Secret Love,” and “Sprung,” with dozens of bonus tracks, spanning from Emancipation era dance remixes, artist collabs, instrumentals, acapellas, and edits, culled from various CD singles and maxi singles, to brand new remixes by the likes of KAYTRANADA and Esentrik. Housed in a beautiful slipcase, the expansive 5LP vinyl collection features exclusive packaging with a 28-page booklet with stunning photos of Mariah as well as a personal letter from the legendary singer to her fans about the significance of this unprecedented album in her extraordinary career.