Mariah Carey’s concert film, “Around The World” hit TV screens in 1998. But over 25 years later, young fans are stumbling across a sensational snippet from the show, and sending the moment viral as if it had happened yesterday, the video topping 13 million views to date.
Mariah Carey had just started to sing the first verse of “Hopelessly Devoted To You” – a flawless R&B-styled take on the 1978 Grease soundtrack hit, performed during the 20th anniversary year of the song’s release, with overwhelming respect paid to the original. But just as Mariah wrapped up the verse, she exclaimed to her live audience, “Ladies and gentlemen: Olivia Newton-John!” who waltzed on stage singing the next verse to a smiling Mariah and a screaming crowd.
This duet has slipped through the cracks for many pop fans; not released as an official single, but simply a one-off performance in the midst of Mariah’s ‘Butterfly’ concert tour (you can watch the full 45-minute gig in the second video below!). But thankfully, “Around The World” has preserved this rare colliding of stars, made even more poignant in the wake of Olivia’s recent death in 2022.
From the haircuts to the fashion styling, readers will be amazed at how this viral clip screams pure 90s; the pair both dressed elegantly in white while clearly enjoying sharing the stage together. Mariah (aged 29 in this clip) rushes to meet Olivia (who had celebrated her 50th birthday that same September) with a hug midway through her verse, before singing center-stage together with their arms around each other in a wholesome pop moment.
Despite Mariah already asserting herself four years prior as a star to be reckoned with on her festive extravaganza “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” Mariah pays dazzling respect to the legend she’s singing with, and fans can’t believe her humility. She lets Olivia Newton-John shine on her stage while adding harmonies and backup vocals with respectful restraint. As one commenting fan noticed, “[Mariah] could have blown the roof off that song, but it would miss the mark. No one ever sang this song better than Olivia Newton-John.”
Following Olivia’s death from breast cancer at the age of 73, viewers have also been taken aback by the late star’s own performance; this video capturing Olivia’s “sweet, strong and beautifully emotive voice,” her unmissable class and “heart of gold.” Nostalgia bubbles in every second of this gig, Olivia’s otherworldly tones making fans realize her “warm and kind presence will forever live on” in live clips such as this.
Mariah Carey’s iconic duet with Olivia Newton-John remains a gem, cherished by fans who keep rediscovering this heartfelt moment. Their seamless performance continues to mesmerize audiences worldwide, echoing the timeless bond of music across generations. For those eager to delve deeper into this captivating collaboration, you can explore additional content through the links provided below.
