Can't Take That Away (Mariah's Theme)

"Can't Take That Away (Mariah's Theme)" is a song by American singer-songwriter Mariah Carey. It was released by Columbia Records on June 6, 2000, written by Carey and Diane Warren, and produced by Carey and Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis for Carey's seventh studio album Rainbow (1999). It was released as the album's third single as a double A-side with "Crybaby". The song is a ballad, blending pop and R&B beats while incorporating its sound from several instruments including the violin, piano and organ. Lyrically, the song speaks of inner strength, and not allowing others to tear away your dreams.

The song was well received by critics, many of whom complimented the lyrics, as well as Carey's vocals. The song was not commercially successful due to its limited release and other factors. The song was the center of a very public controversy between Carey and her label Sony, based on what she perceived to be weak promotion of the single. It peaked outside the top twenty in both Belgium (Wallonia) and the Netherlands, but reached number four in Canada. Stateside, due to Billboard rules at the time, it was not eligible to chart on the Hot 100, only managing a peak of number six on the dance chart.

Two music videos were filmed for "Can't Take That Away (Mariah's Theme)". Both feature personal videos left by five fans, re-telling their stories of pain and emotional abuse and how the song had inspired them. Additionally, a large screen is shown next to Carey throughout the video, playing other inspirational stories from famous athletes. The ending alternates in both videos, with one climaxing on the balcony overlooking the city, while the other by a large indoor window. The song was performed on The Today Show and The View, as well as Carey's Rainbow (2000) and Charmbracelet World Tours (2002–03).

Read more about Can't Take That Away (Mariah's Theme):  Background, Composition and Lyrical Content, Controversy, Music Videos and Remixes, Live Performances, Formats and Track Listings, Credits and Personnel, Charts