Anderson .Paak is working on new music with Mariah Carey. The collaboration brings together two distinctive voices in the music industry, spanning different generations and musical styles.
“This would be Mariah Carey. The Mariah Carey,” the 39-year-old singer-and-producer let the news slip while appearing on social media series ‘Track Star’ — where guests try to identify mystery songs – as he correctly guessed the 56-year-old star’s 1996 track “Always Be My Baby.” The popular series has featured numerous musicians attempting to recognize hit songs from various eras.
.Paak, who was wearing a T-shirt featuring Mariah’s face, said: “I remember in like 5th grade, or something, watching the music videos and having a huge crush. We’re working on some music on her new album.” His admission confirms rumors that have been circulating in music industry circles for several weeks.
News of the collaboration comes after the pair were romantically linked in March 2025 when they were seen holding hands after the iHeartRadio Music Awards, People magazine reported, and were also spotted leaving a restaurant together around the same time. Their public appearances together have sparked considerable interest from fans and media alike.
Carey hasn’t released a studio LP since 2018’s “Caution” but she’s recently confirmed she is busy writing songs, though she doesn’t yet know when fans will get to hear her new material. The upcoming project with .Paak would mark her first major release in several years.
Asked her future plans, she told Best magazine: “I have a lot I want to do. I’m busy. I’m writing new material, so there is new music and a new album coming some time in the future. I’m not sure when. I’m just enjoying the songwriting process.” Her creative approach has always emphasized quality over rushed releases.
Last year saw Carey celebrate 20 years since the release of her Emancipation of Mimi album and she is still “really proud” of the record. The album represented a significant moment in her career, reinvigorating her commercial success and critical acclaim.
She said: “The Emancipation of Mimi is another album I’m really proud of. It was kind of a comeback album for me at the time and it’s still one of my favorites. Celebrating and performing some of those songs this year was special.” The album produced several hit singles that dominated radio airplay upon release.
And Carey is amazed her Merry Christmas album has celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2024. The holiday collection has become one of the most successful Christmas albums of all time, with the lead single becoming a modern seasonal classic.
Asked if it seems so long since she recorded the festive LP, she said: “It really doesn’t. I usually don’t like to think about numbers like that, but we have a 30th anniversary of the Merry Christmas album out, which I’m excited about. I’m so happy people still love to listen to it.” The album continues to find new audiences each holiday season.
It isn’t only her own songs Carey listens to over the festive period. Her appreciation for classic holiday music shows her connection to musical traditions beyond her own contributions.
She admitted: “There are lots. I have a whole Christmas playlist that I love. Nat King Cole’s ‘The Christmas Song’ is one of my favorites. And ‘This Christmas’ by Donny Hathaway is another one.” These traditional favorites showcase her appreciation for timeless holiday classics.
.Paak, meanwhile, has established himself as one of the most versatile talents in contemporary music. As a member of Silk Sonic alongside Bruno Mars, and through his solo work, he has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted following. His distinctive drumming skills and soulful vocals have made him a sought-after collaborator across various musical genres.
The collaboration between .Paak and Carey brings together different musical sensibilities that could potentially create something unique in the music landscape. Fans are eagerly anticipating how their distinctive styles will blend together on Carey’s upcoming project.
Industry insiders suggest the collaboration could represent a fresh direction for Carey, potentially introducing her iconic vocal style to new audiences while satisfying her longtime fans. The pairing also continues .Paak’s tradition of working with established music legends while bringing his contemporary approach to these collaborations.
