Mariah Carey shared a striking story about the early days of her career Wednesday night, revealing she almost sold her publishing rights for just $5,000 when she was 18 years old. She made the remark while presenting Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) Chairman and CEO Jody Gerson with the Executive of the Decade award at the Billboard Power 100 2026 event.
“Well, hi. I was just thinking about something before I got on stage, and I wanted to give this speech,” Carey began. “But I just was thinking, like, I almost sold my publishing when I was 18 years old for $5,000. We remember some of the songs in the catalog, right? But I was just thinking if I had someone like Jody there to protect me, it never even would have gotten that far. So yay, Jody, before I even do the speech.”
The moment drew attention not only because of Carey’s global stature, but because her catalog is among the most valuable in pop music history — making the idea of it nearly being sold for a few thousand dollars a powerful reminder of how vulnerable young songwriters can be.
Carey shifted from her personal story to a broader reflection on songwriting and the industry figures who safeguard it.
“None of us would be in this room today if it weren’t for the transcendent power of one thing — a song,” she said. “And no one I know is a fiercer protector of and advocate for songs and songwriters than the woman that I’m here to introduce.”
She praised Gerson’s leadership at UMPG, highlighting the executive’s impact over the past decade.
“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,” Carey said. “She’s approximately tripled her company’s publishing revenue while championing songwriters and fighting for the value of a song at every turn.”
Industry Leadership and Advocacy
Carey emphasized that Gerson’s influence extends beyond financial performance.
“In the process, she’s shown the music industry how to lead a global music giant with grace, integrity, selflessness, and the utmost respect for both songwriters and her staff,” Carey said. She added that Gerson consistently uses her leadership role “as a platform to build strategic bridges with influential leaders beyond the music industry.”
As a UMPG songwriter herself, Carey said she has experienced that advocacy firsthand.
“As a UMPG artist myself, I know the power of this woman very well, and I’m grateful to work alongside someone who advocates so steadfastly for songwriters,” she said before closing with, “Please join me in congratulating Billboard’s Power 100 Executive of the Decade, Jody Gerson.”
Gerson responded in her acceptance speech thanking Mariah and saying: “Music does not exist without your songs, and UMPG is built to make sure the world will never forget it.”
