Mariah Carey was dubbed the musical "blueprint" by new friend SZA in an endearing speech ahead of the Grammys.
On Friday (January 30), the TDE singer-songwriter paid tribute to Carey during the MusiCares Person of the Year Charity Gala, where artists who honored the five-time Grammy winner included Kesha, Jermaine Dupri and Teddy Swims.
"I’m so honored to be here tonight celebrating my friend — insane to say that — as MusiCares Person of the Year," SZA said. "I speak for so many when I say thank you, Mariah. Your songwriting, your voice, your production, your business — you’re not just a powerhouse, you’re a blueprint."
SZA followed her homage to Carey by introducing John Legend to the stage, who performed a beautiful rendition of Carey’s 1993 Number One hit, "Hero."
Other performers on the night included Foo Fighters and Taylor Momsen, who performed songs from Carey’s secret grunge album, Someone’s Ugly Daughter; Charlie Puth, Billy Porter, FLO, Jennifer Hudson, and more.
Last October, SZA hosted a 'Flowers' discussion with Carey for Gamma and Apple Music during the release of the singer’s 16th studio album, Here for It All. During the chat, SZA praised Carey’s secret 1995 grunge album, Someone's Ugly Daughter, and convinced her to play tracks "Hermit" and "Love is a Scam."
"It was the most like refreshing thing I've heard all year. It was so beautiful," SZA said about "Love is a Scam," adding that fans "need" the album in full.
Last September, Mariah Carey and SZA literally sent each other a bouquet of flowers, which they posted to their Instagram Stories while teasing a collaboration, which turned out to be their live discussion.