Laufey's Magic 'It's Like That' by Mariah Carey Becomes a Jazz Standard Song

Laufey (Instagram @laufey)

JAKARTA - Icelandic singer-songwriter Laufey has successfully stolen the public's attention with her unique interpretation of Mariah Carey's hit song, "It's Like That", at the MusiCares Person of the Year.

Laufey explained the reason for giving a bossanova touch to the song, which was originally an R&B-inspired song. For him, the strength of the diva's song lies in her ability to adapt to various genres without losing the essence of her beauty.

"This is a wonderful way to highlight how great Mariah is - how extraordinary her songs are, and how they can live in so many different styles," Laufey said, quoted by Variety, Thursday, February 5.

"Singing one of his songs in a style that feels more familiar to me is really cool. The song has become a standard now," he continued.

Laufey's performance on the MusiCares stage not only stunned the audience, but also received a direct appreciation from the song's owner, Mariah Carey, who was caught on camera smiling widely and singing the lyrics of the song.

The musician who has Chinese blood from his mother also gave his appreciation to the music team who helped him realize the new arrangement.

"I just came, sang, and practiced with them, it was so much fun. In my opinion, what they did - finding ways to interpret Mariah's songs into each artist's style - is a very smart idea," added Laufey.

Laufey appeared shortly after winning the Grammy Awards in the Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album category for his full-length album released last year, "A Matter of Time".

This victory reinforces Laufey's position as a "bridge" for young generations to get to know traditional jazz and pop music.

Since winning his first Grammy through the album "Bewitched" in 2024, he has consistently introduced complex harmonies in the realm of modern music.