Rare Mariah Carey Demo Tape Auction: Unveiling the Origins of a Superstar
A rare Mariah Carey demo tape is set to be auctioned off next month by Wax Poetics, a music magazine and merch site. The cassette tape is believed to be one of Carey's original demos, given to producer Arthur Baker by the star over 35 years ago. The auction will start on December 2 on WaxPoetics.com.
During a Christmas party in Manhattan, Baker received the tape from Carey, who was a backup singer for Brenda K. Starr at the time. The demo tape featured covers and original songs written and recorded by Carey herself. Baker recognized her talent immediately and knew she was destined for stardom.
The demo tape eventually led to Carey's record deal with Columbia Records, launching her successful career. Many of the songs from the original demo ended up on her debut album, including hits like "Vision of Love," "Someday," and "Alone in Love," one of Carey's earliest compositions.
The cassette tape also contains early, unreleased recordings and songs recorded with Brenda K. Starr, showcasing Carey's exceptional voice and talent. Wax Poetics CEO Alex Bruh describes the demo tape as a highly sought-after item that captures the moment Carey was emerging as an era-defining artist.
The auction will include the tape, a certificate of authenticity, archival notes, and historical context from Baker's collection and the Wax Poetics archive team. Baker, who has held onto the tape for nearly four decades, is selling it to fund upcoming projects, including a documentary film and a personal memoir and podcast.
The Mariah Carey demo tape auction will run from December 2 to December 11, with the potential to fetch up to $20,000. Baker reflects on Carey's talent and determination, noting that she has maintained her star status over the years due to her killer instinct and focus. He considers himself privileged to have witnessed her pure talent firsthand.