Do You Remember Mariah Carey’s First Music Video?
When Mariah Carey released her debut single “Vision of Love” in May 1990, it introduced the world to her remarkable voice, a soaring blend of gospel, pop, and R&B, and the music video gave us our first real glimpse of the young singer who would become a pop icon. Do you remember the music video? It was simple, set inside a cathedral with sunlight streaming through a grand window and Carey standing alone in the space, the focus was squarely on her, her voice, and her presence. That was all she needed.
“Vision of Love” quickly became a number one hit, earning critical acclaim and shaping a new vocal style that would inspire countless singers in the years to follow. The music video itself may not have been flashy or narrative driven, but it reflected the very essence of Carey’s early artistry. She did not need theatrics because she had a voice that made people turn their heads.
Kevin Winter/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
Now, 35 years later, Carey is finally being honored with the Video Vanguard Award at the 2025 MTV VMAs. The recognition is long overdue. Despite being nominated nine times, she had never taken home a Moonman until now. This year’s ceremony, held on September 7 at UBS Arena in Long Island, feels especially fitting, since Carey grew up just a short drive away in Huntington, New York. She is set to perform a medley of her biggest hits, offering a visual journey that will connect her earliest work, like “Vision of Love,” to her more cinematic videos such as “Heartbreaker,” “Obsessed,” and “Touch My Body.”
The honor comes as Carey prepares to release her new album Here for It All with the lead single “Type Dangerous,” showing that she is not only celebrating her past but also pushing her artistry into the future. For fans who remember that first music video in 1990, watching her receive the Vanguard Award will be a full-circle moment.
Remind 
Pop Music Legends
August 2017
Dedicated to the sights, sounds and stories of the golden age of pop.
Buy This Issue