Almost Selling Valuable Assets for Only Rp78 Million, Mariah Carey Remembers the Difficult Times Before Becoming a World Diva

Mariah Carey revealed a new story while attending the Billboard Power 100 event in Los Angeles, USA on Wednesday, January 28 local time.

The singer of "Always Be My Baby" told the hidden fact about the beginning of her journey in the music industry that almost cost her financially.

In front of music industry executives, Carey recalled the moment when she almost sold all rights to her music or her publishing catalog (publishing) for only 5,000 US dollars (Rp78 million) when she was 18 years old.

Given the string of hit songs he created afterwards, the decision to stick around proved to be the smartest move of his career.

"I almost sold my publishing rights when I was 18, for 5,000 US dollars. We all remember some of the songs in that catalog, right?" said Mariah Carey, quoted by Billboard.

The statement was made while introducing Jody Gerson, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG), who was named Executive of the Decade.

According to the diva, the existence of a protective figure like Gerson is very crucial for young musicians so that they are not trapped in contracts that are detrimental.

"I just think: If I had someone like Jody there to protect me, it would never have gone that far (almost selling assets)," he added.

For Carey, a songwriter is the main foundation of the global music industry. He emphasized, the transcendent power of a song is the reason why this industry remains strong.

As one of the artists under the auspices of UMPG, Mariah Carey feels calm because her work is in the right hands.

"Since she became Chairman/CEO of UMPG a decade ago, Jody Gerson has not only ruled as the most powerful woman in the music industry, but also as one of the most powerful executives in the entertainment world," praised Mariah.

Under Gerson's leadership, UMPG's publishing revenue reportedly increased threefold. Gerson is also known as a fighter for the value of a song's work and is active in social movements such as She Is the Music and advocacy for mental health through Project Healthy Minds.

When receiving the award, Gerson gave back credit to Mariah Carey. He called her a musician who has spent more time at number one on the charts than anyone in history.

"I have the best job in the world, working with and supporting some of the greatest artists and songwriters of all time. They have touched my heart and enriched my soul through their music," Gerson said in his speech.

Gerson closed with a strong message that creating opportunities for women in the music industry is not just an option, but an obligation for all leaders in the entertainment sector. He believes that in the midst of world uncertainty, music remains the main instrument to bring unity and healing.