In a memorable finale to her Christmas Time tour, pop legend Mariah Carey shared an unexpected moment with Rihanna, adding an unforgettable highlight to the event. The concert, held on December 17th, featured a star-studded audience that included the Fenty founder. Carey's spontaneous interaction with fans and her brief encounter with Rihanna have since become the talk of the town.

Experience the Magic of Live Music Like Never Before

An Impromptu Meeting in the Crowd

As the night unfolded, Carey performed her hit "Always Be My Baby," leaving the stage momentarily to mingle with fans. Just as she was about to return, a security guard interrupted, leading her back into the crowd once more. In a candid interview with PEOPLE, Carey humorously recounted the moment, saying, "You cannot call me a diva again because I’m literally backing down the stairs." This impromptu descent led to an unexpected encounter with Rihanna, who received a playful breast signature from Carey. “That was hilarious,” Carey told PEOPLE over the phone from Aspen. “I had heard that Rihanna was coming to the show, but I didn’t think she would be in the actual crowd. She was fun.”

Celebrating Christmas Classics and Future Plans

The evening was not just about celebrity sightings; it also celebrated timeless holiday tunes. Carey has long been associated with Christmas music, and this year was no different. From "Joy to the World" to "Silent Night," she covered several classics. Reflecting on her love for the season, Carey admitted she isn't tired of Christmas melodies yet. Even while vacationing in Aspen, where "Oh, Santa" played over the speakers, she found herself enjoying the festive spirit. Looking ahead, Carey hinted at covering another slow, sad song for future holidays, showcasing her versatility and enduring passion for the genre.

A Commitment to Christmas Shows

Despite the challenges of scheduling and health issues, Carey remains committed to her Christmas shows. She canceled three recent performances due to illness but expressed her intention to continue these concerts. “It’s probably something that I’ll always do,” she said. However, she acknowledged the need to adjust the schedule to ensure her well-being. This commitment underscores Carey's dedication to her fans and her desire to maintain the magic of live Christmas performances.

The Mystery of the Lost Grunge Album

Carey also touched on a topic that has intrigued fans for years—her lost grunge album. Discovered in 2022, this project has generated significant buzz. When asked about its release, Carey revealed that it might see the light of day in 2025 or later. “People have been asking me about it, and it’s something that I love so much,” she confessed. The anticipation surrounding this album promises to keep fans eagerly awaiting more news and potentially groundbreaking music from the iconic artist.