**I Don’t Wanna Cry**
**Definition**
„I Don’t Wanna Cry” is a song by American singer and songwriter Mariah Carey, released as the third single from her self-titled debut album in 1991. The ballad showcases Carey’s vocal range and emotional delivery, becoming one of her early chart-topping hits.
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## I Don’t Wanna Cry
„I Don’t Wanna Cry” is a soulful ballad performed by Mariah Carey, featured on her debut studio album *Mariah Carey* (1990). Written and produced by Carey and Narada Michael Walden, the song was released as the album’s third single in 1991. It is noted for its heartfelt lyrics, emotive vocal performance, and smooth production, which helped solidify Carey’s reputation as a leading voice in contemporary R&B and pop music during the early 1990s.
### Background and Development
Following the success of her first two singles, „Vision of Love” and „Love Takes Time,” Mariah Carey and her production team sought to continue showcasing her vocal abilities and emotional depth. „I Don’t Wanna Cry” was crafted to highlight Carey’s ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously. The song was co-written by Carey and Narada Michael Walden, a prominent producer known for his work with artists such as Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin.
The collaboration between Carey and Walden was instrumental in shaping the song’s sound. Walden’s production style, characterized by lush instrumentation and polished arrangements, complemented Carey’s vocal style, which combined gospel influences with pop sensibilities. The song’s lyrics explore themes of heartbreak, emotional pain, and the desire to avoid further suffering, resonating with listeners who had experienced similar feelings.
### Composition and Lyrics
„I Don’t Wanna Cry” is a slow-tempo ballad that blends elements of R&B, pop, and soul. The song is set in the key of B major and features a moderate tempo that allows Carey’s vocal performance to take center stage. The arrangement includes piano, synthesizers, and subtle percussion, creating a smooth and intimate atmosphere.
Lyrically, the song deals with the emotional turmoil of a failing relationship. The narrator expresses a reluctance to face the pain of separation and the vulnerability that comes with heartbreak. The chorus, with its repeated plea, „I don’t wanna cry,” captures the universal desire to avoid emotional suffering and maintain strength in difficult times.
Carey’s vocal delivery is marked by her use of melisma and dynamic range, moving from soft, tender moments to powerful, soaring notes. This vocal approach enhances the song’s emotional impact and demonstrates her technical skill as a singer.
### Release and Promotion
„I Don’t Wanna Cry” was released as a single in May 1991 by Columbia Records. It followed the commercial success of Carey’s previous singles, which had established her as a rising star in the music industry. The release was supported by a music video directed by Larry Jordan, which visually depicted the song’s themes of heartbreak and emotional struggle.
The video features Carey in various settings, including a dimly lit room and scenes of her walking alone, emphasizing the song’s introspective mood. The visual presentation was well-received and contributed to the song’s popularity on music television channels.
To promote the single, Carey performed „I Don’t Wanna Cry” on several television programs and award shows. These live performances highlighted her vocal prowess and helped maintain public interest in her debut album.
### Critical Reception
Upon release, „I Don’t Wanna Cry” received positive reviews from music critics. Many praised Carey’s vocal performance, noting her ability to convey deep emotion and technical skill. Critics also highlighted the song’s production quality and its effective blend of pop and R&B elements.
Some reviewers considered the song a standout track on the *Mariah Carey* album, emphasizing its maturity and emotional depth compared to other contemporary ballads. The song was often cited as an example of Carey’s potential to become a leading figure in the music industry.
### Commercial Performance
„I Don’t Wanna Cry” achieved significant commercial success, particularly in the United States. The single reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking Carey’s third consecutive chart-topping single from her debut album. This achievement underscored her rapid rise to prominence and established her as a consistent hitmaker.
The song also performed well internationally, charting within the top 40 in countries such as Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Its success contributed to the overall sales of the *Mariah Carey* album, which was certified multi-platinum in several markets.
### Legacy and Influence
„I Don’t Wanna Cry” remains an important part of Mariah Carey’s early career and is often included in retrospectives of her work. The song exemplifies the style and themes that would characterize much of her later music, including emotional balladry and vocal virtuosity.
The track has influenced subsequent artists in the pop and R&B genres, particularly female vocalists who cite Carey as an inspiration. Its success helped pave the way for ballads to achieve mainstream popularity in the 1990s, blending soulful expression with commercial appeal.
Carey has occasionally included „I Don’t Wanna Cry” in her live performances and compilation albums, reaffirming its status as a fan favorite and a significant milestone in her discography.
### Track Listings and Formats
The single was released in various formats, including 7-inch vinyl, cassette single, and CD single. The B-side of the single typically featured the album track „Sent from Up Above,” another song from *Mariah Carey*.
### Personnel
– **Vocals:** Mariah Carey
– **Songwriters:** Mariah Carey, Narada Michael Walden
– **Producer:** Narada Michael Walden
– **Instrumentation:** Narada Michael Walden (drums, keyboards), other session musicians
– **Engineering and Mixing:** David Frazer, Narada Michael Walden
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## Conclusion
„I Don’t Wanna Cry” stands as a defining song in Mariah Carey’s early career, showcasing her vocal talent and emotional expressiveness. Its commercial success and critical acclaim helped establish her as a major artist in the early 1990s music scene. The song continues to be celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics, polished production, and enduring appeal.
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**Meta Description:**
„I Don’t Wanna Cry” is a 1991 ballad by Mariah Carey from her debut album, known for its emotional depth and vocal performance. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying Carey’s early success.