Mariah Carey Reflects on Nearly Selling Her Music Catalog for $5,000 Early in Her Career

During the Billboard Power 100 gala in Los Angeles on Wednesday night, pop icon Mariah Carey took the stage to honor Jody Gerson, the Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG), as the Executive of the Decade. While introducing her, Carey shared a startling revelation from her early days: she nearly signed away her priceless catalog for a mere pittance.

“I was just eighteen years old when I came within inches of selling my publishing rights for $5,000. We all know the songs in that catalog now, don’t we?” Carey told the star-studded audience. She reflected on the importance of mentorship and industry protection, adding, “If I had someone like Jody there to guard my interests back then, it never would’ve progressed that far.”

Carey, who ultimately retained her rights and became one of the most successful songwriters in history, emphasized that the entire music industry hinges on the “transcendent power” of a single song. She lauded Gerson as an unparalleled advocate for creators, noting that since taking the helm at UMPG ten years ago, Gerson has not only reigned as the most powerful woman in the business but has become one of the most formidable forces in global entertainment.

The tribute followed a video montage featuring testimonials from UMPG heavyweights like Chris Martin, Brandi Carlile, J Balvin, and Barry Gibb. Carey highlighted Gerson’s remarkable business acumen, noting she has roughly tripled the company’s publishing revenue while leading with “grace, integrity, and selflessness.”

“As a UMPG artist myself, I recognize the strength of this woman intimately,” the superstar added. “I am incredibly grateful to work alongside someone who advocates so steadfastly for those of us who write the music.”

Accepting the accolade, Gerson described the presentation as a “truly special moment,” noting the significance of receiving the award from an artist who has spent more weeks at No. 1 than any other in history. In a moving speech, Gerson called her role “the best job in the world,” stressing that supporting artists is a fundamental obligation.

“We should view creating opportunities for women and doing work that matters to artists as a requirement, not just a responsibility,” Gerson stated, referencing her initiatives such as She Is the Music and her work with the mental health advocacy group Project Healthy Minds.

Concluding the evening on a note of inspiration, Gerson remarked, “In a world so fraught with tension and uncertainty, I am proud to lead an industry that brings music—and with it, hope, unity, and healing—into the world.”

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