In expansive prose . . . , Chan proves that despite a smooth-edged commercial exterior, Careys style foregrounds the ways singing can activate something irrational and untamed within us. Its a satisfying tribute to a dynamic and influential singer. * Publishers Weekly *
Required reading for Lambs worldwide: In Why Mariah Matters, Andrew Chan looks beyond Mariah Careys undeniable glamour and incredible five-octave vocal range to examine the diva to explore her life as a mixed-race woman in music, her adventurous forays into gospel and house music, and her appeal to multiple generations of queer audiences. * NYLON *
Why Mariah Carey Matters makes the case for Mariah Careys place in the pantheon of great musical artists and its hard to disagree with its central argument, that for all her accolades, mainstream success and her over-the-top camp persona, we have overlooked the nuance and artistry underneath. * The Queer Review *
[Andrew Chan strikes] an elegant balance of tone and writing as a critic, a reporter, and a memoirist all at once . . . when Careys effect on audiences poses a phenomenological hurdle, he spins illuminating personal narratives only to then pivot towards rigorous close-readings of her lyrics, voice, and performances worthy of Barthess Mythologies. * The Millions *
Chan's beautiful descriptions of Carey's songs, lyrics, and performances aid in the difficult task of bringing sound to life solely through words...An excellent look at a great artist. Readers will likely find themselves YouTubing the Carey performances described in this book. * Library Journal *
Chan gives nuance in Careys work, persona, and legacy...Across 168 pages, Chan humanizes Careys world renowned impact in music, also connecting the artists poignant lyrics and five-octave singing delivery to his experiences as a queer Chinese-American. * NYLON *
What stands out the most about this book is the intimacy of the authors writing. . .Chans focus stays fixed on Careys extraordinary voice, her metamorphosis from ambitious ingenue into a showbiz heavyweight and the impact her music has on legions of loyal lambs, the latter of which is most poignantly displayed in the final passages of the book. * Xtra Magazine *
Chan is one of my favorite writers and an important voice in contemporary music and film criticism. Hes vivid in his assessment of Careys musical gifts. He layers in details of his own upbringing to help us understand why certain songs and singers turned him into a student of the art. I love the way he brings the reader along with him . . . He situates Carey in refreshing context: with Black singers of the 80s who influenced her sound, and with other female songwriter-producers like Patrice Rushen, Teena Marie, and Angela Winbush, who dont often receive credit for their prowess behind the boards. * Oxford American *
