Mariah Carey's ninth studio album, Charmbracelet, marks a triumphant return to her R&B roots, following the critically-panned Glitter soundtrack. Released on 3 December 2002 through Island Records and Def Jam Recordings, this deeply personal record showcases Carey's soulful voice and emotional depth. The 15-track album features collaborations with renowned producers such as Jermaine Dupri, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, and Just Blaze, as well as guest appearances by notable artists.
With its duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, Charmbracelet takes listeners on a journey through a range of emotions, from the uplifting 'Through The Rain' to the heartfelt 'My Saving Grace'. The album's tracklist, which includes 'Boy (I Need You)', 'The One', and 'Clown', demonstrates Carey's ability to craft infectious, soulful melodies that resonate with her audience.
Certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America, Charmbracelet debuted at number three on the Billboard 200 chart, selling 241,000 copies in its first week. This commercial success is a testament to Mariah Carey's enduring talent and dedication to her craft. Despite being categorised under the Christmas genre, Charmbracelet's themes and sounds are universally relatable, making it an album that can be enjoyed throughout the year. With its release, Mariah Carey proved once again that she is a hit-maker, and Charmbracelet remains a standout album in her discography.