Mariah Carey’s Secret Grunge Album:”Someone’s Ugly Daughter”

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Mariah Carey, the queen of pop, has always been known for her powerhouse vocals and carefully crafted image. But what many don’t know is that in 1995, at the height of her fame, she secretly released an alt-rock album under the pseudonym “D. Sue” and the band name Chick.

This hidden gem, titled “Someone’s Ugly Daughter,” was a stark departure from Carey’s usual fare. Inspired by bands like Hole and Garbage, the album allowed Carey to channel her frustrations and explore a rawer, more rebellious sound. Imagine Carey trading her signature high notes for gritty guitars and angsty lyrics – it was a side of her the public had never seen before.

The album’s creation was a spontaneous affair, born out of late-night jam sessions with her producer Walter Afanasieff and other collaborators. They would work on Carey’s pop album, “Daydream,” during the day and then switch gears to record “Someone’s Ugly Daughter” at midnight, fueled by creativity and a desire to break free from expectations.

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Carey’s alter-ego project was a chance for her to shed her meticulously manicured pop star persona and embrace a grungier, more authentic aesthetic. She even adopted a pseudonym, D. Sue, to further distance herself from her public image.

However, Sony Music, Carey’s label at the time, caught wind of the project and deemed it too risky for her carefully cultivated image. They insisted on replacing Carey’s lead vocals with those of her friend Clarissa Dane, effectively burying Carey’s contribution.

Despite being muffled by the label’s interference, “Someone’s Ugly Daughter” offers a fascinating glimpse into Carey’s hidden depths. It’s a testament to her versatility as an artist and her willingness to experiment with different genres.

The album’s existence remained largely unknown until Carey revealed it in her 2020 memoir, “The Meaning of Mariah Carey.” Now, with renewed interest from fans, this forgotten piece of music history is finally getting the attention it deserves.

Mariah Carey and “Someone’s Ugly Daughter” is a reminder that even the biggest stars have hidden facets, and that sometimes the most interesting creations are born out of a desire to break free from expectations. It’s a testament to Carey’s artistry and her rebellious spirit, proving that she’s more than just a pop icon – she’s a true musical chameleon.

Read the whole story – “The Story Behind Mariah Carey’s Secret ’90s Alt-Rock Album” – Pitchfork.com

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