In a remarkable tribute to pop icon Mariah Carey, the Foo Fighters took the stage at MusiCares 2026 in Los Angeles, performing tracks from her unreleased 1995 grunge project, *Someone’s Ugly Daughter*. The event, held on Saturday night, showcased a stellar lineup of artists, including Taylor Momsen, who joined Dave Grohl and his band in celebrating Carey’s lesser-known musical journey.
A Glimpse into Mariah’s Alternative Roots
Mariah Carey first revealed the existence of *Someone’s Ugly Daughter* in her memoir, *The Making of Mariah Carey*, published in 2020. The album, a departure from her established R&B sound, was recorded during the sessions for her widely successful album, *Daydream*. Due to pushback from her record label, Carey ultimately shelved the project and enlisted her friend Clarissa Dane to front the band Chick, which released the album instead.
During the tribute, the Foo Fighters delivered a powerful rendition of two tracks, “Love Is a Scam” and “Demented”. The atmosphere was electric, with Carey herself frequently seen singing along, visibly delighted by the homage to her past.
An Evening of Celebration and Reflection
The MusiCares gala, a fixture in the music industry’s calendar, aims to honour artists while supporting those in need. This year’s event featured a diverse array of performers, including Kesha, Jennifer Hudson, and John Legend, all paying tribute to Carey’s extensive catalogue. The gathering not only celebrated her past achievements but also shone a light on her artistic versatility.
In her memoir, Carey expressed the cathartic nature of creating the alternative album, describing how it gave her an outlet during challenging times. “I wanted to break free, let loose, and express my misery – but I also wanted to laugh,” she reflected, highlighting the contrast between her polished public image and the raw energy of her grunge-inspired work.
The Legacy of an Unreleased Album
Fans were taken aback when Carey unveiled her alt-rock venture, with many playfully dubbing her the “queen of alternative music.” Social media buzzed with excitement, as followers shared their enthusiasm for the prospect of hearing the original tracks, which have remained largely under wraps. One fan quipped, “The Mariah Carey alternative album feels like The Missing Piece,” indicating that this hidden facet of her artistry resonates deeply with her audience.
With her unique blend of pop and rock influences, Carey’s unreleased material presents a fascinating chapter in her career that continues to intrigue fans and critics alike. The MusiCares tribute has reignited interest in these songs, prompting discussions about the evolution of her sound and the broader implications of her artistic choices.
Why it Matters
The tribute by Foo Fighters serves not only as a celebration of Mariah Carey’s multifaceted talent but also as a reminder of the often-overlooked aspects of an artist’s journey. It encourages fans to explore the layers of creativity within their favourite musicians, highlighting that even the most commercially successful artists have stories and works that remain hidden from mainstream audiences. As we witness a growing acceptance of diverse musical expressions, Carey’s foray into grunge stands as a testament to the power of artistic exploration and the importance of embracing all facets of creative identity.
