Butterfly is the sixth studio album by American singer Mariah Carey, released on September 16, 1997, through Columbia Records. Widely regarded as one of her most personal and transformative works, Butterfly marked Carey’s full transition into R&B and hip-hop, leaving behind much of her adult contemporary roots. The album was met with critical and commercial success, solidifying her influence on the evolving landscape of late-90s pop and R&B. Background and Creation During the creation of Butterfly, Carey was undergoing a period of personal and professional reinvention. Her marriage to Sony executive Tommy Mottola was dissolving, giving her more creative control over her music. She embraced a more urban sound, collaborating with producers like Sean "Puffy" Combs, Missy Elliott, and Jermaine Dupri, in contrast to the polished pop production of her earlier albums. Carey described Butterfly as the album where she truly "found her voice", both musically and personally. It introduced a sultrier, more introspective Mariah, blending soulful R&B, hip-hop beats, and smooth ballads, a style that would define the rest of her career. Singles and Reception The album spawned several landmark hits, including: Honey – A game-changing single that debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming her third song to do so. The track’s sexy, hip-hop-infused sound and cinematic video symbolized Carey’s artistic and personal freedom. Butterfly – A soaring, deeply personal ballad of transfor