Anderson .Paak has shared his positive experiences working with Mariah Carey, describing their collaboration as truly incredible. He detailed learning from Carey’s creative process at the Time100 Gala on April 23rd.

Learning from a Music Icon

The 40-year-old artist highlighted Carey’s hands-on approach to music production, from songwriting to mixing. He noted that observing her dedication was a significant learning experience. Their collaboration resulted in the duet “Play This Song,” featured on Carey’s 2025 album, Here For It All.

A Fond Recollection

.Paak fondly recalled the enjoyable moments shared with Carey, emphasizing the fun they had and the captivating stories she shared. He also mentioned luxurious experiences like enjoying caviar and champagne. He expressed his willingness to collaborate again, stating he would participate as long as Carey continues to create and includes him in her projects.

Brief Romance and Playful Response

The connection between .Paak and Carey extended beyond the studio, sparking romantic speculation in December 2024 when they were seen holding hands in Aspen. Sources confirmed they began dating after meeting during their collaboration the previous summer. .Paak had long admired Carey and considered her a musical inspiration.

Carey Addresses the Rumors

Carey playfully dismissed the hand-holding during a CBS Mornings interview, joking that .Paak simply wanted to hold her hand and calling him a member of a “hand-holding club.” She also praised .Paak’s talent, describing him as a “brilliant” and “really great artist.” The music video for “Play This Song” visually depicted their close connection.

Parting Ways and Personal Lives

Reports surfaced in 2025 indicating that Carey and .Paak had parted ways amicably. Carey is a mother to 14-year-old twins, Moroccan and Monroe, with ex-husband Nick Cannon, whom she was married to from 2008 to 2014. She was also in a relationship with choreographer Bryan Tanaka from 2016 to 2023.

.Paak, whose real name is Brandon Paak Anderson, shares a 15-year-old son, Soul Rasheed, and an 8-year-old daughter, Shine Tariq, with his estranged wife, Jaylyn Chang, from whom he filed for divorce in January 2024.

Time’s 100 Most Influential People

.Paak was recently named one of Time’s 100 Most Influential People of 2026, an honor he described as “epic” and “bucket list stuff.” He expressed feeling inspired by other influential figures at the gala, including Nikki Glaser, Alan Cumming, and Hilary Duff. He celebrated the recognition with a drink, acknowledging the significance of being included among such esteemed company.