Muni Long is setting the record straight after a viral moment sparked controversy at the iHeartRadio Music Awards 2025. On March 17, the 36-year-old singer took the stage to perform Mariah Carey’s iconic hit “We Belong Together” in a tribute to the legendary artist, who was being honored that night. A clip from the awards show showed Carey, 55, seemingly looking unimpressed during Long’s performance, which led fans to speculate that Carey was shading Long.
However, Long clarified in a social media video on March 19 that Carey was, in fact, pleased with the tribute. Long revealed that Carey herself had asked her to perform the tribute. “The people that’s got a lot to say, you don’t understand how this paying homage and having respect for people…
She asked me to do it,” Long explained. “You thought I chose to get on TV and sing a Mariah Carey song? You thought that was my choice?
Why would I do that?
Long clarifies iHeart tribute misunderstanding
Nobody can sing Mariah’s songs like Mariah. Nobody.”
Long continued, sharing that she has footage of Carey praising her performance but chose not to post it.
“She told me I did a great job, she appreciated it. And that’s it. Once again, if she pushed me down the stairs, if she told me she hated it, I would say thank you.
That’s what I would say.”
Carey also publicly showed her support for Long. On Wednesday, Carey applauded Long and Tory Kelly, who paid tribute with a rendition of “Always Be My Baby,” by posting a photo of the trio on social media. “So beyond grateful for these two gorgeous, uber-talented, kind, incredible musicians who made my heart so full of joy with their tribute performances at the @iheartradio awards.
I love and appreciate you so much!!!” Carey wrote. In a clip posted by iHeartRadio, Carey is seen smiling after Long belts out her final note. Long expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, commenting, “Thank you for choosing me to honor you in this magical moment! You ARE my Icon and I am your forever lamb.
I love you! The little girl in me is screaming.”
Despite initial misunderstandings, it appears that the tribute was a heartfelt moment of recognition and respect between two talented artists.
Photo by; Elijah Ekdahl on Unsplash
