Muni Long has a message for those criticizing her performance of We Belong Together at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards: Mariah Carey herself gave her stamp of approval.

The Grammy-winning singer took the stage alongside Tori Kelly to honor Carey, who received the prestigious Icon Award during the March 17 event. While Kelly’s rendition of Always Be My Baby received universal praise, Long’s take on We Belong Together sparked debate, with some viewers suggesting that Carey appeared uninterested or unimpressed.

Addressing the backlash, Long made it clear that she was personally invited by Carey to perform the song—a fact she emphasized to those questioning her choice.

“[Mariah] asked me to do it,” Long, 36, explained. “You thought I just decided to get on TV and sing a Mariah Carey song? Why would I do that? Nobody can sing Mariah’s songs like Mariah. Nobody.”

Despite mixed reactions from the audience, Long remains unfazed, stating that Carey’s opinion is the only one that matters.

“I did my best, and that’s all I can do,” she added. “She told me I did a great job, she appreciated it. And that’s it.”

A Tribute That Sparked Debate

The performance quickly became a talking point on social media, with some fans defending Long’s vocal delivery while others questioned whether she was the right choice for such a challenging song. Clips of Carey looking away during the performance fueled speculation that she wasn’t pleased, though no such sentiment has been confirmed.

Regardless of the chatter, Long is standing firm, knowing that she honored one of her musical idols in the best way she could. For her, the moment was less about pleasing critics and more about celebrating an artist who paved the way for so many.