Mariah Carey Shares Her Experience of Nearly Selling Her Publishing for $5,000 and Reflects on the Songs We Know
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On January 28 in Los Angeles, Mariah Carey honored Jody Gerson, chairman and CEO of Universal Music Publishing Group, who was recognized by Billboard as its Executive of the Decade. During her introduction, Carey shared a personal anecdote about nearly selling her own publishing rights early in her career.
“I almost sold my publishing when I was 18 years old, for $5,000. We remember some of the songs in the catalog, right?” Carey reflected at Billboard’s Power 100 event. “But I was just thinking: If I had someone like Jody there to protect me, it never would’ve gotten that far.”
Carey emphasized the importance of music, stating, “none of us would be in this room today if it weren’t for the transcendent power of one thing — a song. And no one I know is a fiercer protector of or advocate for songs and songwriters than the woman that I’m here to introduce. Since she became chairman/CEO of Universal Music Publishing Group a decade ago, Jody Gerson has reigned not just as the most powerful woman in the music industry, but as one of the most influential executives in entertainment.”
Following a video montage featuring UMPG artists including Chris Martin, Brandi Carlile, J Balvin, and Barry Gibb, Carey highlighted Gerson’s impressive achievements. She noted that Gerson has “approximately tripled her company’s publishing revenue, while championing songwriters and fighting for the value of a song at every turn.” Carey praised Gerson’s leadership, describing her as a figure of “grace, integrity, selflessness and the utmost respect for both songwriters and her staff.”
As a UMPG artist, Carey reflected on her gratitude, stating, “I know the power of this woman very well, and I’m grateful to work alongside someone who advocates steadfastly for songwriters.”
Upon accepting the honor, Gerson described the moment as “truly special,” particularly given the recognition from an artist with such an unparalleled record at No. 1.
In her acceptance speech, Gerson expressed her passion for her work, saying, “I have the best job in the world, working with and supporting some of the greatest artists and songwriters of all time. They have all touched my heart and enriched my soul through their music. They mean the world to me, and I care about them and their songs deeply.”
She urged industry colleagues to prioritize opportunities for women and emphasized the importance of supporting artists as “a responsibility we should all feel, in fact we should view it as a requirement.” Gerson noted her involvement as a co-founder of She Is the Music and a board member of the mental health advocacy group Project Healthy Minds.
“In a world so fraught with tension, turmoil and uncertainty,” she said, “I am proud to be in an industry that brings music into the world, and with it, hope, unity and healing.”
