Photo: Getty Images
Mariah Carey received the Icon Award at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards on Monday (March 17) evening for her record-breaking contributions to music and endless collection of hits that stand the tests of time.
The legendary songstress is not only the "best-selling female recording artist of all time" but has sold over 200 million albums worldwide and has gifted the world 28 top ten hits. Carey took the stage to accept the award and immediately drew attention to the magic she feels hearing her music on the radio to this day (after making sure the lighting was good, of course).
"As a kid, I used to listen to my favorite artists on the radio and dream of being on the airwaves myself. For those who may not know what airwaves are, think of it as the non-wifi version of streaming. Even now, I still get excited when I hear one of my songs playing on the radio. It never stops feeling magical."
The "Fantasy" hitmaker thanked a few key people, including iHeartRadio's very own John Sykes, who contributed to her career-spanning triumphs, before shining a bright spotlight on her fans and loved ones.
"And to my fans...you've been with me through every step of this journey. Your love and loyalty are the greatest gift and I'm endlessly thankful for every one of you. And on this St. Patrick's Day, I want to honor my mother, Patricia Carey, for giving me the gift of music. Love you! Love You! Love You!"
Top nominees for the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards included Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, Kendrick Lamar, Morgan Wallen, and Post Malone, to name only a few stars recognized for their contributions to music.
Other artists who took the stage at this year's show include Bad Bunny, GloRilla, Kenny Chesney, Nelly, Billie Eilish, and Muni Long.
For more, read: Mariah Carey Has Best Reaction To Tori Kelly's 'Always Be My Baby' Cover.
Watch the star accept her Icon Award at the annual award show below.