What really went down behind Mariah Carey’s Glitter era? Rocky breaks down her career, the fallout from her marriage to Tommy Mottola, and how she set the stage for her bold 2001 Glitter soundtrack and movie.

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Full Show Notes

Before the Glitter soundtrack and movie dropped in 2001, Mariah Carey was at the peak of her career — but her personal life and professional world were colliding. Her divorce from Sony boss Tommy Mottola freed her, but also left her navigating control, creativity, and the music industry’s pressure.

In this episode of Pop DNA, Rocky traces Mariah’s journey leading up to Glitter: her chart-topping dominance, the making of a semi-autobiographical movie, and the soundtrack that reflected her life and struggles. Discover the behind-the-scenes battles that shaped this misunderstood era and set the stage for the drama, sabotage, and comeback explored in Part 2.

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Topics Covered

• ​ Mariah Carey’s career before Glitter
• ​ Marriage and fallout with Tommy Mottola
• ​ Creative independence vs. corporate control
• ​ Making of the Glitter soundtrack and movie
• ​ Setting up the era of industry sabotage

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About Pop DNA

Pop DNA uncovers the stories behind pop culture’s biggest moments. This episode explores Mariah Carey’s personal and professional struggles leading up to Glitter, revealing how she fought for her creative voice and laid the groundwork for one of pop music’s most dramatic eras.