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{{Short description|2009 single by Mariah Carey}}
{{Infobox Single <!-- See Misplaced Pages:WikiProject Songs -->
{{Good article}}
| Name = Obsessed
{{Use mdy dates|date=May 2015}}
| Cover = Obsessed_reduced.jpeg
{{Infobox song
| Artist = ]
| name = Obsessed
| from Album = ]
| B-side = | cover = Obssesed (single) Mariah Carey.png
| Released = June 16, 2009 | alt =
| Format = | type = single
| Recorded = 2009 | artist = ]
| Genre = ], ] | album = ]
| released = {{start date|mf=yes|2009|6|16}}
| Length = 4:05
| recorded = 2009
| Label = ]
| studio =
| Writer = ], ], ]
| venue =
| Producer = Mariah Carey, The-Dream, Christopher "Tricky" Stewart
| Audio sample? = | genre =
{{flat list}}
| Certification =
* ]
| Last single = "]"<br />(2009)
* ]
| This single = "'''Obsessed'''"<br />(2009)
{{endflatlist}}
| Next single = "''Thriller''<br />(2009)
| Misc = | length = {{duration|m=4|s=2}}
| label = ]
| writer = {{flat list|
* Mariah Carey
* Christopher Stewart
* Terius Nash
}}
| producer = {{flat list|
* Mariah Carey
* ]
* ]
}}
| prev_title = ]
| prev_year = 2009
| next_title = ]
| next_year = 2009
| misc = {{External music video|{{YouTube|H1Yt0xJKDY8|"Obsessed"}}}}
}} }}


"'''Obsessed'''" is a song by American singer-songwriter ] from her twelfth studio ], '']'' (2009). The song was written and produced by Carey, ] and ], and was released as the album's ] on June 16, 2009, by ]. The song draws musical influences from ] and ], and is built around a thumping ].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Rambarran |first=Shara |url=https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/diva-9781501368257/ |title="Proceed with Caution": Mariah Carey – the Ultimate Diva in Popular Music and Culture? in Diva: Feminism and Fierceness from Pop to Hip-Hop |publisher=Bloomsbury |others=eds., Fairclough, K., Halligan, B., Hodges Persley, N., Rambarran., S. |year=2023 |isbn=9781501368257 |location=New York}}</ref> Additionally, the song is accentuated by ], while Carey's voice is processed with ]. Lyrically, the song describes Carey's dilemma regarding constant claims of a prior relationship from rapper ], although he is not specifically mentioned.
"'''Obsessed'''" is a song by American singer ], released as the lead single from her 12th studio album, '']''.<ref name=rapup>. '']''. June 14, 2009. Retrieved June 15, 2009.</ref> The song is produced and co-written by ], ] and ].


The song received generally positive reception from music critics. Some praised the song itself, highlighting it as a stand-out track from ''Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel'' and complimenting its clever lyrics and strong beat while others criticized the usage of Auto-Tune on Carey's vocals. At the time of the song's release, "Obsessed" was the center of controversy, as critics and the media suggested Carey was aiming it at Eminem, who had negatively referenced her several times in his songs. Eminem released a song called "]" in response.
==Background and release==
On June 9, 2009, Carey announced via ] that the first single from ''Memoirs'' would be "Obsessed" and that it would be released to radio the following Tuesday, June 16; she also stated that "this is one of favorite songs ever."<ref> . '']''. June 9, 2009. Retrieved June 15, 2009.</ref><ref>. ''mariahcarey.com''. June 9, 2009. Retrieved June 15, 2009.</ref> The singer also stated that the song was an "uptempo fun summer record," and even though she wanted to release a '']''-era ballad, "Obsessed" had to come out first. She wrote on Twitter, "It's different for me, but clearly, it's SO me!"<ref>. ''Twitter''. June 9, 2009. Retrieved June 15, 2009.</ref><ref>. ''Twitter''. June 9, 2009. Retrieved June 15, 2009.</ref>


"Obsessed" peaked at number seven on the US ], becoming Carey's 27th top-ten hit on the chart and her only top-ten to miss the top five on the chart. In terms of total top-ten chart entries among all artists in the chart's history, Carey tied for fifth place after the song's peak, with ] and ]. Internationally, the song was not released throughout parts of Europe, as Island Records decided to give priority to the album's second single, Carey's cover of ]'s hit "]". "Obsessed" peaked within the top-ten in France and Italy; and in the top 20 in Australia, Belgium, Canada and Japan.
The song was transmitted digitally to radio stations on June 16, 2009 for immediate airplay and made its debut on Chicago radio station ] at 2:00 pm. A remix of the song, featuring rapper ],<ref name=rapup /> premiered on the same day. Gucci said that ]'s manager, Chris Lighty, orchestrated his guest appearance.<ref> </ref>


The accompanying ] for "Obsessed" was directed by ], who Carey has previously worked with on many of her videos. Throughout the video, Carey plays both herself and the character of the male stalker, dressed in a bellhop uniform, as well as a gray hoodie and sweatpants. Two videos were filmed for "Obsessed", one for the original version and one for the remixed version, which features rapper ]. The video was shot predominantly at the ] and on the streets of ]. After several photographs of Carey dressed as the stalker were leaked, tabloids immediately compared Carey's costume to Eminem's usual attire. Carey performed the song live on the ] of '']'', '']'', and throughout her ] (2009–10). Both the song and video contain references to the 2004 film '']'', starring ].
==Music video==
The music video will be directed by ].<ref>The Island Def Jam Music Group. . ]. June 16, 2009. Retrieved June 16, 2009.</ref>. It will be shot on June 28, 2009.<ref>http://twitter.com/MariahCarey/status/2365439576</ref>


==Critical reception== == Background ==
{{Quote box | quote="The most anticipated is the Mariah project, and she just released a fire record in the building today. And we have been blasting it out all day. It's just fucking retarded. I don't think anybody is going to expect her to come out punching like she is going to come out. But she got a record. It's going to light the blogs up too because you don't know who she talking about, what she talking about, but she talking about something. And remember The-Dream told you first. So you can start that up right now. Mariah Carey has a record, and somebody's going to be very upset. I said that."|source=—], discussing "Obsessed" prior to its release<ref name=outcry>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.9289/title.the-dream-talks-auto-tune-mariah-s-answer-record|title=The-Dream Talks Auto-Tune, Mariah's Answer Record|last=Burgess|first=Omar|magazine=HipHopDX|date=June 11, 2009|access-date=August 13, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090615040204/http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.9289/title.the-dream-talks-auto-tune-mariah-s-answer-record|archive-date=June 15, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref>|align=right|width=35%}}
Initial reviews of the track were generally positive. '']'' stated that "the biting mid-tempo track is already more musically and lyrically engrossing than '']''’s singles,"<ref name=rstone /> while a reviewer from ''Hitfix'' stated that the song "is rhythmically-driven, mid-tempo slice of summer delight, full of insults delivered in an innocent, sugary sweet questioning way by Carey, which only adds to its appeal," adding that Carey "pulls it off."<ref name=hitfix>Newman, Melinda. . ''Hitfix''. June 16, 2009. Retrieved June 16, 2009.</ref> '']'' writer Glenn Gamboa wrote on the paper's music blog that Carey "coos confidently, riding the laid-back beat, probably holding back the laughs as she insults again."<ref name=newsday /> ] predicted that "Obsessed" would be the song of the summer, calling it "glossy, flossy, and decidedly 'urban'."<ref>Montgomery, James. . '']''. June 16, 2009. Retrieved June 19, 2009.</ref> ]'s Bob Burke said that "There's no doubt that Mariah can sing like no one else, but sometimes less is best, as is the case on this hypnotic track that is sure to keep MC fans totally "Obsessed."<ref></ref> The '']'' gave the song a B+ review, saying that "she's still got it".<ref>Carter, Lauren. . '']''. Retrieved June 24, 2009.</ref> ] gave ''Obsessed'' a very positive review saying, ] may have declared AutoTune dead, but ] just revived it. Along with ] and ], Carey has crafted a gem of a diss record that coasts, even over its sputtering moans and synth jabs, her lyrical boasts are biting and funny, and the syrupy lightness of her vocals is tailor-made for the ribbing she gives her mystery pursuant (reportedly Eminem). Though some lament Carey trading in her sky-high notes and ballads for a more constrained, R&B-friendly range, the singer has clearly found a new comfort zone that could very well produce her 19th No. 1 hit.<ref>http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/reviews-singles/obsessed-1003988222.story</ref>. "Obsessed" is the featured "Single of the Week" in the Music section of ], they stated that "This summery midtempo bouncer from Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel, due Aug. 25, finds MC getting a bit devilish with what sounds like a response to Eminem's "Bagpipes from Baghdad".<ref>People magazine, page 45, July 6, 2009 issue.</ref>


In 2008, Carey had suddenly cancelled a concert tour supporting her eleventh studio album, '']''.<ref name=preg>{{cite news|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report_mariah-carey-is-definitely-pregnant_1217181|title=Mariah Carey is Definitely Pregnant|last=Wales|first=Jason|work=]|publisher=Diligent Media Corporation|date=December 28, 2008|access-date=August 9, 2011|archive-date=February 8, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120208062743/http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report_mariah-carey-is-definitely-pregnant_1217181|url-status=live}}</ref> There was heavy speculation in the media that Carey had become pregnant, and had abandoned the plans for a tour as a result.<ref name=preg2>{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/celebrity/news/a138171/carey-sparks-pregnancy-rumors.html|title=Carey Sparks Pregnancy Rumors|last=Martin|first=Lara|work=]|date=March 31, 2008|access-date=August 5, 2011|archive-date=September 21, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120921123820/http://www.digitalspy.com/celebrity/news/a138171/carey-sparks-pregnancy-rumors.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The singer had later admitted that she was pregnant during that time period, and had suffered a miscarriage, leading to the cancellation of the tour.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/952446/mariah-carey-confirms-im-pregnant|title=Mariah Carey Confirms: I'm Pregnant|last=Herrera|first=Monica|magazine=]|date=November 28, 2008|access-date=August 9, 2011|archive-date=July 3, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130703121018/http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/952446/mariah-carey-confirms-im-pregnant|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/mariah-carey-im-pregnant/|title=Mariah Carey: I'm Pregnant|last=Derschowitz|first=Jessica|work=]|date=November 24, 2008|access-date=August 9, 2011|archive-date=July 21, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120721121756/http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-31749_162-20021007-10391698.html|url-status=live}}</ref>


Carey then opted to record a new album, that would be released during the summer of 2009.<ref name=outcry /> During the later stages of the project, Carey released the title, '']'', that would serve as the singer's twelfth ].<ref name=outcry /> She explained how plans for a ] to be released were put on hold, because a new song she had written "needed to be heard".<ref name=inlovewithit>{{cite news|url=http://articles.nydailynews.com/2009-06-17/entertainment/17924953_1_nielsen-soundscan-memoirs-album|title=Mariah Carey Tweets on Her Sweet New Album; 'Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel' Release Date Announced|last=Labowsky|first=Issie|work=]|date=June 15, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120609135411/http://articles.nydailynews.com/2009-06-17/entertainment/17924953_1_nielsen-soundscan-memoirs-album|archive-date=June 9, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> On June 9, 2009, she wrote on her official ] account: "Seriously, this is one of my favorite songs ever. I love the whole album. I'm completely immersed in it. I can't wait for you to hear it", and announced its title as "Obsessed".<ref name=inlovewithit /> Later that week, ], who co-wrote the song with Carey, claimed that the song was definitely aimed at someone in particular, and that it would upset them greatly.<ref name=outcry /> The song was transmitted digitally to radio stations on June 16, 2009, for immediate airplay and made its debut on Chicago radio station ] at 2:00 pm. An official remix of the song, featuring rapper ], premiered on the same day.<ref name=premiere>{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2009/06/14/mariah-carey-remix-puts-the-g-in-ghetto/|title=Mariah Carey Remix Has Put the 'G in Ghetto'|work=]|date=June 15, 2009|access-date=August 13, 2011|archive-date=October 15, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101015010453/http://www.rap-up.com/2009/06/14/mariah-carey-remix-puts-the-g-in-ghetto/|url-status=live}}</ref>
The song received a mixed review from the '']'', with a writer stating that although this was "a feistier Mimi than 're used to," she ultimately "has been molded to fit current trends" and that the single "again sells out the songbird to her producers."<ref name=latimes />. Bill Lamb from ] was also critical of "Obsessed," saying that Carey should have put out a stronger lead single from ''Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel'', he stated that "Lyrically "Obsessed" is interesting, but musically it just doesn't hold up with the standard of Mariah Carey's other work, " Those having similar issues in life will surely grab some of the more clever lyrical put-downs here, but the music, a plodding, repetitive beat with little melody, is forgettable". Lamb also called the song "bitter" and was negative towards the excessive use of ] in the song, "Her vocals, historically among the most memorable in pop music history, are drowned by auto-tune leaving a faceless drone on the chorus".<ref>Lamb, Bill. . '']''. Retrieved June 19, 2009.</ref>


==Lyrical content== == Artwork ==
The single cover artwork for "Obsessed" features Carey leaning against a dirty concrete wall.<ref name=cover>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.co.uk/news/mariah-carey/126699-mariah-carey-s-sexy-new-single|title=Mariah Carey's Sexy New Single|work=]|publisher=Viacom|date=June 17, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=October 22, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121022091424/http://www.mtv.co.uk/news/mariah-carey/126699-mariah-carey-s-sexy-new-single|url-status=dead}}</ref> She is shown wearing black underwear and a matching sheer top, with a black bra visible through the shirt.<ref name=cover /> Carey's hair is featured in a long and wet style, cascading over her shoulders and right breast.<ref name=cover /> The word "Obsessed" is written in large white letters over Carey's body.<ref name=cover /> An anonymous writer for ] described it as "wet and raunchy", while writing, "As you can see here the star has chosen a sexy shot to launch material from her next album. Mariah is shown busting out of a revealing black top and wearing black underwear."<ref name=cover />
In an interview with HipHopDX, The-Dream stated that Carey had a song that everyone would be talking about and that it would "light up the blogs," also calling it a "fire record." The producer noted that due to the content of the song, "somebody’s going to be very upset."<ref>Burgess, Omar. . ''HipHopDX''. June 11, 2009. Retrieved June 15, 2009.</ref><ref>Joszor, Njai. . '']''. June 12, 2009. Retrieved June 15, 2009.</ref>


== Controversy ==
Within hours after the song's release, various outlets speculated that its target was rapper ], in response to his song "Bagpipes from Baghdad," in which he taunted Carey's husband, ] by telling Nick Cannon to back off and that Carey is his.<ref name=rstone>Kreps, Daniel. . '']''. June 16, 2009. Retrieved June 16, 2009.</ref><ref name=newsday>Gamboa, Glenn. . '']''. June 16, 2009. Retrieved June 16, 2009.</ref><ref name=latimes>Martens, Todd. . '']''. June 16, 2009. Retrieved June 16, 2009.</ref><ref name=vibe>Wete, Brad. . '']''. June 16, 2009. Retrieved June 16, 2009.</ref> According to ], Carey alludes to drug problems in "Obsessed," which Eminem opened up about on his latest album, '']''.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1614088/20090616/carey_mariah.jhtml|title=Is Mariah Carey's 'Obsessed' Directed At Eminem?|last=Rodriguez|first=Rodriguez|publisher=MTV|date=2009-06-16|accessdate=2009-06-17}}</ref>
=== Background ===
In 2001, Carey decided to venture into the film industry with her debut acting role, '']''.<ref name="Mayer">{{cite web|url=http://www.cbc.ca/arts/music/carey.html |title=Carey On |last=Meyer |first=Andre |work=] |access-date=February 24, 2011 |date=December 13, 2005 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090330193907/http://www.cbc.ca/arts/music/carey.html |archive-date=March 30, 2009 }}</ref><ref name="Vineyard">{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/bands/c/carey_mariah/news_feature_032805/index.jhtml|title=Bands A-Z: Mariah Carey|work=MTV|publisher=Viacom|access-date=February 24, 2011|archive-date=June 29, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629170705/http://www.mtv.com/bands/c/carey_mariah/news_feature_032805/index.jhtml|url-status=dead}}</ref> It was a critical and commercial failure,<ref name="Mayer" /><ref name="Vineyard" /> which led to Carey's $100 million recording contract being bought out by ], who paid her $49 million to part ways.<ref name="Mayer" /> Carey also had personal life conflicts and erratic behavior in public appearances, leading to the singer being hospitalized.<ref name=careyon>{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/boston/access/983024561.html?FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Feb+05%2C+2006&author=Joan+Anderman%2C+GLOBE+STAFF&pub=Boston+Globe&desc=CAREY%2C+ON!&pqatl=google|title=Carey, On!|last=Anderson|first=Joan|work=]|date=February 6, 2006|access-date=May 13, 2011|archive-date=July 25, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120725040734/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/boston/access/983024561.html?FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Feb+05%2C+2006&author=Joan+Anderman%2C+GLOBE+STAFF&pub=Boston+Globe&desc=CAREY%2C+ON!&pqatl=google|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=hospital>{{cite news|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=JTIzAAAAIBAJ&pg=6593,3086458&dq=mariah+carey+breakdown&hl=en|title=Mariah Carey Released After Breakdown|work=]|date=August 9, 2001|access-date=June 15, 2011|archive-date=March 4, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210304223946/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=JTIzAAAAIBAJ&pg=6593%2C3086458&dq=mariah+carey+breakdown&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref> During this period in Carey's personal life, American rapper ] claimed to date Carey for six months.<ref name=st>{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sptimes/access/75553336.html?dids=75553336:75553336&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Jul+19%2C+2001&author=&pub=St.+Petersburg+Times&desc=Another+season+for+SLT+Series%3A+2b%3B+IN+THE+NEWS&pqatl=google|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130131160409/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/sptimes/access/75553336.html?dids=75553336:75553336&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Jul+19,+2001&author=&pub=St.+Petersburg+Times&desc=Another+season+for+SLT+Series:+2b;+IN+THE+NEWS&pqatl=google|url-status=dead|archive-date=January 31, 2013|title=Another Reason for SLT Series|last=Clark|first=Norm|work=]|date=July 19, 2001|access-date=August 14, 2011}}</ref> After this Eminem referred to Carey in several of his songs in a negative light, feeling angered by her disowning their alleged relationship.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=SR&p_theme=sr&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0F7731C334698C97&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM|title=May I Have All Your Attention Please?|work=]|date=November 19, 2002|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=October 26, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121026011532/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=SR&p_theme=sr&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0F7731C334698C97&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM|url-status=live}}</ref> The back-and-forth through songs continued with "]" on Carey's album '']'',<ref name=boston>{{cite news|url=https://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/bostonherald/access/250796631.html?dids=250796631:250796631&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Dec+03%2C+2002&author=Sarah+Rodman&pub=Boston+Herald&desc=Carey+hopes+promotion+efforts+work+like+a+charm&pqatl=google|title=Carey Hopes Promotion Efforts Work Like a Charm|last=Rodman|first=Sarah|work=The Boston Globe|date=December 3, 2002|access-date=June 13, 2011|archive-date=November 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121107181007/http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/bostonherald/access/250796631.html?dids=250796631:250796631&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&type=current&date=Dec+03,+2002&author=Sarah+Rodman&pub=Boston+Herald&desc=Carey+hopes+promotion+efforts+work+like+a+charm&pqatl=google|url-status=dead}}</ref> her 2001 interview tapes being faked as voice recordings being played at Eminem's ].<ref name=messages>{{cite news|url=http://www.boston.com/ae/celebrity/articles/2009/05/11/nick_cannon_rages_at_eminem/|title=Nick Cannon Rages at Eminem|last=Anderson|first=Joan|work=The Boston Globe|date=May 17, 2009|access-date=August 13, 2011|archive-date=November 3, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103220643/http://www.boston.com/ae/celebrity/articles/2009/05/11/nick_cannon_rages_at_eminem/|url-status=live}}</ref> After playing the excerpt, Eminem would pretend to be sick before launching into his song "Puke".<ref name=messages />


On May 15, 2009, Eminem released his sixth studio album, '']'', which included a song titled "Bagpipes from Baghdad"<ref name=pipes>{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/music/news/a155468/cannon-slams-disrespectful-eminem-song.html|title=Cannon Slams 'Disrespectful' Eminem Song|last=Martins|first=Lisa|work=Digital Spy|date=June 19, 2009|access-date=June 13, 2011|archive-date=September 22, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120922171542/http://www.digitalspy.com/music/news/a155468/cannon-slams-disrespectful-eminem-song.html|url-status=live}}</ref> in which he addresses Mariah's denial that their relationship ever happened. In the lyrics, Eminem expresses that he's not done talking about the subject: "I want another crack at ya" and "Nick Cannon better back the fuck up. I'm not playing, I want her back, you punk."<ref name=pipes /> After the song's release, Cannon went on his website, defending Carey and expressing his disgust at Eminem's comments.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20278115,00.html|title=Nick Cannon Blasts Eminem for 'Disrespecting' Mariah Carey|last=Helling|first=Steve|work=]|date=May 11, 2009|access-date=August 13, 2011|archive-date=March 29, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110329032559/http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20278115,00.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Following Cannon's comments, Eminem responded sarcastically. He clarified that the song was actually "wishing the couple the best", and that it was a misunderstanding.<ref name=apology>{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/music/news/a156352/eminem-cannon-got-carey-track-wrong.html|title=Eminem: 'Cannon Got Carey Track Wrong'|last=Martins|first=Lisa|work=Digital Spy|date=June 19, 2009|access-date=June 13, 2011|archive-date=September 22, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120922171633/http://www.digitalspy.com/music/news/a156352/eminem-cannon-got-carey-track-wrong.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In an interview with ], Eminem clarified that although contained a "harsh" line, he meant well.<ref name=apology /> He later commented that he respected Cannon for his response, and that he expected him to stand up for his wife.<ref name=apology />
==Chart performance==
''Obsessed'' debuted at number 52 on the '']'' chart, on the issue dated July 4, 2009. This marked Carey's 48th chart entry. Carey extends her lead for second most charted titles among women in the '90s and '00s, the first being ] with 57 chart entries.<ref>http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/chart-beat-bonus/chart-beat-the-black-eyed-peas-lynda-carter-1003985729.story</ref>


==Charts== === Aftermath ===
After Carey premiered "Obsessed" on June 16, 2009, the media frenzied and began speculating the song was targeting at ], due to its lyrics and overall message.<ref name=obsessed>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1614088/mariah-careys-obsessed-directed-at-eminem.jhtml|title=Is Mariah Carey's 'Obsessed' Directed At Eminem?|work=MTV News|access-date=August 13, 2011|date=June 30, 2009|first=Shaheem|last=Reid|archive-date=October 20, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111020164455/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1614088/mariah-careys-obsessed-directed-at-eminem.jhtml|url-status=dead}}</ref> Following the song's accompanying music video, which featured Carey playing a role that resembled the rapper, critics considered it Carey's response to Eminem's "Bagpipes from Baghdad".<ref name=obsessed /> Soon after both the song and video's release, the rapper released another song, titled "]" on July 30, 2009, which he claimed to be a retaliation.<ref name=caps>{{cite web|url=http://www.eonline.com/news/eminem_sends_mariah_nick_nasty/136976|title=Eminem Sends Mariah and Nick a Nasty, Nude-Pic-Threatening "Warning"|last=Finn|first=Natalie|work=]|date=August 1, 2009|access-date=August 13, 2011|archive-date=August 23, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110823092622/http://www.eonline.com/news/eminem_sends_mariah_nick_nasty/136976|url-status=live}}</ref> The song's lyrics allude to his supposed relationship with the singer, the music video for "Obsessed", and pictures and proof he claims to have of the couple.<ref name=caps /> The song begins "Only reason I dissed you in the first place is because you denied seeing me. Now I'm pissed off", before describing Carey's impersonation of him in her video, "Oh gee, is that supposed to be me in the video with the goatee?/ Wow Mariah, didn't expect ya to go balls out."<ref name=warning1>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1617334/eminem-slams-mariah-carey-nick-cannon-again.jhtml|title=Eminem Slams Mariah Carey, Nick Cannon In New Dis Track, 'The Warning'|work=MTV News|access-date=August 13, 2011|date=July 30, 2009|first=Shaheem|last=Reid|archive-date=August 11, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110811221138/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1617334/eminem-slams-mariah-carey-nick-cannon-again.jhtml|url-status=dead}}</ref> Eminem continues describing a near-sexual encounter with the singer, threatening to release voice-mails and pictures he still has in his possession.<ref name=msnbc>{{cite web|url=http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/32241821|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100714164717/http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/32241821|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 14, 2010|title=Eminem Fires 'Warning' Shot at Mariah Carey|last=Walls|first=Jeanette|work=]|access-date=August 13, 2011|date=July 30, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-interviews/Eminem-threatens-to-leak-Mariah-Careys-nude-pics/articleshow/4845003.cms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110917110458/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2009-08-01/news-interviews/28195980_1_mariah-carey-nick-cannon-nude-pics|url-status=live|archive-date=September 17, 2011|title=Eminem Threatens to Leak Mariah Carey's Nude Pics?|last=Demeau|first=Jean|work=]|access-date=August 13, 2011|date=July 30, 2009}}</ref> Additionally, the song features a female's voice, unknown whether or not Carey's, where she calls herself ], as well as several intervals of her laughter.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/music/news/a168588/eminem-pens-new-carey-cannon-track.html|title=Eminem 'Pens New Carey, Cannon Track'|last=West|first=Dave|work=Digital Spy|access-date=August 13, 2011|date=July 30, 2009|archive-date=September 22, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120922171718/http://www.digitalspy.com/music/news/a168588/eminem-pens-new-carey-cannon-track.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In the aftermath of the releases, Cannon was questioned regarding the inspiration of "Obsessed", and whether it was ever directed at Eminem:
{|class="wikitable sortable"
<blockquote>
!align="left"|Chart (2009)
She's Mariah Carey. She's not beefin', she's a vegetarian. People keep saying was directed at certain people. To be completely honest, she did the record 'cause she's a huge fan of this movie '']'', and there's a line in the movie where one of the girls is like, 'Why are you so obsessed with me?' She says that at the beginning of the song, and that's where the concept came from. But, you know, art imitates life.<ref name=warning1 />
!align="center"|Peak<br>position
</blockquote>

== Composition ==
{{listen|filename=Mariah Carey - Obsessed.ogg|title="Obsessed"
|description=A sample of "Obsessed"; its built around a "thumping bass line",<ref name=thump /> and features a "distorted wordless vocal ]".<ref name=hook /> Additionally, the song is accentuated by ], while Carey's voice is set with ].<ref name=chron />
|format=]}}
"Obsessed" draws influences from the ] and ] genres.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=CSTB&p_theme=cstb&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=12B080E179C4E120&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM|title=Fashionably Flashy but Soulleslast|last=DeRogatis|first=Jim|work=]|date=September 29, 2009|access-date=September 8, 2011|archive-date=October 26, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121026044534/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=CSTB&p_theme=cstb&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=12B080E179C4E120&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM|url-status=live}}</ref> The song is built around a "thumping bass line",<ref name=thump>{{cite news|url=http://media.www.smccollegian.com/media/storage/paper841/news/2009/09/29/Detour/Mariah.Carey.Returns.With.Memoirs.Of.An.Imperfect.Angel-3785830.shtml|title=Mariah Carey Returns With 'Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel'|last=Freeman|first=Mark|work=]|publisher=]|access-date=August 13, 2011|date=September 30, 2009|archive-date=October 3, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111003165333/http://media.www.smccollegian.com/media/storage/paper841/news/2009/09/29/Detour/Mariah.Carey.Returns.With.Memoirs.Of.An.Imperfect.Angel-3785830.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> and features a "distorted wordless vocal ]" as its instrumentation.<ref name=hook>{{cite news|url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2009/09/29/the-best-mariah-carey-music-since-the-90s/|title=The Best Mariah Carey Music Since the 90s|last=Kot|first=Gregg|work=]|date=September 30, 2009|access-date=August 13, 2011|archive-date=October 5, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121005202025/http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2009-09-29/entertainment/0909280302_1_imperfect-angel-tricky-stewart-12th-studio-album|url-status=live}}</ref> Additionally, the song is accentuated by ], while Carey's voice is set with ].<ref name=chron /> Joey Guerra of the '']'' described the song's production as "an auto-tune orgy of come-hither vocals and cutesy Mariah-isms."<ref name=chron>{{cite news|url=http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ent/music/cdreviews/6641750.html|title=Carey's 'Memoirs' Hits an Early Stride|last=Guerra|first=Joey|work=]|date=September 30, 2009|access-date=August 8, 2011|archive-date=April 26, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110426115640/http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ent/music/cdreviews/6641750.html|url-status=live}}</ref> According to the ] published at Musicnotes.com by ], "Obsessed" is set in ] with a tempo of 84 ].<ref name=music /> It is composed in the key of ], with Carey's vocals spanning from B{{music|flat}}<sub>3</sub> to C7.<ref name=music /> Written and produced by Carey, ] and ], the song's ] revolves around alternating A{{music|b}} major and C minor chords.<ref name="music">{{cite web|url=http://www.musicnotes.com/sheetmusic/mtdVPE.asp?ppn=MN0077792|title=Obsessed: Mariah Carey Digital Sheet Music|first1=Mariah|last1=Carey|first2=Christopher|last2=Stewart|year=2009|work=Musicnotes.comb|publisher=]|at=MN0068511 (Product Number)|format=Musicnotes|access-date=April 9, 2011|last3=Terius Nash (Composers and Lyricists)|archive-date=January 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230115112154/https://www.musicnotes.com/sheetmusic/mtd.asp?ppn=MN0077792|url-status=live}}</ref> Lyrically, the song describes the protagonists dilemma regarding a stalker, and finds her asking him regarding his obsession.

After the song's release, critics heavily compared its lyrics to Eminem, and suggested Carey alluded to him and his 'obsession' with her.<ref name=obsessed /> "Obsessed" never mentions the rapper's name, although reviewers felt it to be very obvious.<ref name=obsessed /> The song begins with "I was like, 'Why are you so obsessed with me?'", before the music begins. This line references the 2004 film '']''.<ref name=obsessed /> As the first verse begins, Carey describes the tracks' subjects constant lies: "All up in the blogs sayin' we met at a bar / When I don't even, know who you are / Sayin' you up in my house sayin' you up in my car / When you in L.A. and I'm at ]'s".<ref name=calgary /> Additionally, the song suggests the stalker is under the influence of drugs: It must be the ], it must be the ] / 'Cause you be poppin', heard you get it poppin'."<ref name=calgary /> During the chorus, Carey confronts her stalker, asking: Why are you so obsessed with me / Boy I wanna know / Lying that your sexing with me / When everybody knows/ It's clear that you're upset with me / Oh, Oh, Oh, finally found a girl that you couldn't impress / last man on the earth still couldn't get this."<ref name=calgary /> During the song's second verse, critics complimented Carey's lyrics, highlighting phrases such as: You're a mom & pop, I'm a corporation / I'm the press conference, you're a conversation", "suggesting the rapper isn't a worthy suitor".<ref name=chron /><ref name=calgary>{{cite news|url=http://jam.canoe.ca/Music/2009/06/17/9821836-wenn-story.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130115095306/http://jam.canoe.ca/Music/2009/06/17/9821836-wenn-story.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=January 15, 2013|title=Mariah Attacks Eminem in Song|last=Bell|first=Mike|work=]|date=June 17, 2009|access-date=August 13, 2011}}</ref> The super clean version of the song which shares the identical time length of the album version, have the words "E" and "weed" being omitted. Two individual garble sound effects were used for the removed lyrics.

== Critical reception ==
"Obsessed" received widespread acclaim from ] upon release. While most reviewers complimented the song's lyrics and production, some criticized Carey for her usage of intentional ]. Daniel Kreps from '']'' stated that "the biting mid-tempo track is already more musically and lyrically engrossing than '']'''s singles."<ref name=rs>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/mariah-carey-fires-back-at-eminem-in-new-single-obsessed-20090616|title=Mariah Carey Fires Back at Eminem in New Single "Obsessed"|last=Kreps|first=Daniel|magazine=]|date=June 16, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=April 29, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120429122108/http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/mariah-carey-fires-back-at-eminem-in-new-single-obsessed-20090616|url-status=live}}</ref> '']''{{'}}s Michaelangelo Matos complimented the song's clever lyrics, and called it a "wicked diss of an unnamed Eminem for spreading rumors about their involvement."<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.avclub.com/mariah-carey-memoirs-of-an-imperfect-angel-1798207106|title=Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel|last=Matos|first=Michaelangelo|work=]|publisher=]|date=September 30, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=October 12, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091012070515/http://www.avclub.com/articles/mariah-carey-memoirs-of-an-imperfect-angel,33694/|url-status=live}}</ref> Though criticizing '']'' for being full of mid-tempo numbers, James Reed from '']'' felt "Obsessed" "stood out of the goo", due to its witty lyrics and strong beat production.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://archive.boston.com/ae/music/articles/2009/09/29/on_angel_carey_returns_to_glory_of_her_rb_days/|title=On 'Angel,' Carey Returns to Glory of Her R&B Days|last=Reed|first=James|work=The Boston Globe|date=September 29, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=May 10, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120510072615/http://articles.boston.com/2009-09-29/ae/29256109_1_carey-returns-imperfect-angel-rihanna|url-status=live}}</ref> Monica Herrera of '']'' gave the song a positive review, describing it as a "gem of a diss record that coasts, even over its sputtering moans and synth jabs."<ref name=bb>{{cite magazine|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Y6Dx4qbQ3dUC&q=The+key+is+making+it+look+easy.+Along+with+the-Dream+and+C.+%22Tricky%22+Stewart%2C+Carey+has+crafted+a+gem+of+a+diss+record+that+coasts%2C+even+over+its+sputtering+moans+and+synth+jabs.+One+questionable+Windex&pg=PT48|title=Single Reviews|last=Herrera|first=Monica|magazine=Billboard|date=June 18, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=January 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230115112202/https://books.google.com/books?id=Y6Dx4qbQ3dUC&q=The+key+is+making+it+look+easy.+Along+with+the-Dream+and+C.+%22Tricky%22+Stewart%2C+Carey+has+crafted+a+gem+of+a+diss+record+that+coasts%2C+even+over+its+sputtering+moans+and+synth+jabs.+One+questionable+Windex&pg=PT48|url-status=live}}</ref> Additionally, Herrera complimented Carey's lyrics, calling them "bity and funny".<ref name=bb /> '']''{{'}}s Leah Greenblatt described the track as a "brash synth kiss-off",<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20307643,00.html|title=Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel|last=Greenblatt|first=Leah|magazine=]|date=September 23, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=October 13, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091013085357/http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20307643,00.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> while Alex Macpherson from '']'' called it "jaunty" and "wisecracking".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2009/nov/13/mariah-carey-memoirs-of-an-imperfect-angel-review|title=Mariah Carey: Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel|last=Macpherson|first=Alex|work=]|date=November 19, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=March 13, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160313202628/http://www.theguardian.com/music/2009/nov/13/mariah-carey-memoirs-of-an-imperfect-angel-review|url-status=live}}</ref> On "Obsessed", Sal Cinquemani from ] felt the "attitude is sexy",<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.slantmagazine.com/music/review/mariah-carey-memoirs-of-an-imperfect-angel/1843|title=Mariah Carey: Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel|last=Cinquemani|first=Sal|work=]|date=September 30, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=August 10, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110810204203/http://www.slantmagazine.com/music/review/mariah-carey-memoirs-of-an-imperfect-angel/1843|url-status=live}}</ref> while Jon Caramanica from '']'' felt the song was a stand-out track from the album, which he felt was "dated".<ref name=nvcnvc>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/28/arts/music/28choi.html?_r=1|title=New CDs|last=Caramanica|first=Jon|work=]|date=September 30, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=August 13, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813054959/http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/28/arts/music/28choi.html?_r=1|url-status=live}}</ref> He described that although the entire album was produced by Carey, The-Dream and Tricky Stewart, which he described as "masters of compensation, helping elevate mediocre singers — like The-Dream himself or ], on ']' — to something sublime",<ref name=nvcnvc /> "Obsessed" sounded "]-esque, and felt it was a notable exception from the rest of ''Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel''.<ref name=nvcnvc />

'']''{{'}}s Ann Powers described it as an "aggressive track",<ref>{{cite news|url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2009/09/album-review-mariah-careys-memoirs-of-an-imperfect-angel.html|title=Album Review: Mariah Carey's 'Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel'|last=Powers|first=Ann|work=]|date=September 30, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=September 26, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090926175937/http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2009/09/album-review-mariah-careys-memoirs-of-an-imperfect-angel.html|url-status=live}}</ref> while Lauren Carter of the '']'' wrote "Carey's musical stiff-arm ends with some vocal acrobatics to let us know she's still got it. Expect to get 'Obsessed' this summer."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bostonherald.com/entertainment/music/reviews/view.bg?articleid=1180539&srvc=rss|title=Mariah Carey|last=Carter|first=Lauren|work=]|date=June 20, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090827132647/http://www.bostonherald.com/entertainment/music/reviews/view.bg?articleid=1180539&srvc=rss|archive-date=August 27, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> MTV News rated the song as one of the contenders for the "best of the summer", writing "Mimi returns, this time with an Auto-Tuned kiss-off to wannabe lotharios (and Eminem?) that will probably be the soundtrack to a million summer hookups and just as many public-intoxication collars. Glossy, flossy and decidedly "urban", Mariah strikes back. Your radio has been warned.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1614099/mariah-carey-drake-who-will-have-summer-jam-09.jhtml?rsspartner=rssYahooNewscrawler|title=Mariah Carey? Drake? Who Will Have The Summer Jam Of '09?|last=Montgomery|first=James|work=MTV News|date=June 17, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=November 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121107194248/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1614099/mariah-carey-drake-who-will-have-summer-jam-09.jhtml?rsspartner=rssYahooNewscrawler|url-status=dead}}</ref> ] critic ] chose the song as a "top pick" from ''Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.allmusic.com/album/memoirs-of-an-imperfect-angel-r1616570/review|title=Mariah Carey: Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel|last=Erlewine|first=Stephen Thomas|work=]|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=February 12, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110212003033/http://www.allmusic.com/album/memoirs-of-an-imperfect-angel-r1616570/review|url-status=live}}</ref> while Amos Barshad of ''The New York Times'' listed it as the fifth top song of the summer.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://nymag.com/daily/entertainment/2009/07/song_of_the_summer_will_jay-z.html|title=Song of the Summer: Will Jay-Z Dominate?|last=Barshad|first=Amos|work=The New York Times Company|date=July 24, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=July 28, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090728182217/http://nymag.com/daily/entertainment/2009/07/song_of_the_summer_will_jay-z.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In contrast, "Obsessed" received a mixed review from the ''Los Angeles Times'' writer, Todd Martens, who wrote that although "its feistier Mimi than 're used to", she ultimately "has been molded to fit current trends" and that the single "again sells out the songbird to her producers."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2009/06/mariah-carey-are-we-obsessed.html|title=Mariah Carey: Are We Obsessed?|last=Martens|first=Todd|work=Los Angeles Times|date=September 30, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=January 11, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120111084820/http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2009/06/mariah-carey-are-we-obsessed.html|url-status=live}}</ref> At the ] 27th Annual Pop Music Awards, "Obsessed" won "Most Performed Song".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ascap.com/eventsawards/awards/popawards/2010/Most_Performed_Songs.aspx |title=Mariah Carey Wins 2010 ASCAP Pop Music Awards |publisher=] |date=April 20, 2010 |access-date=April 23, 2010 |archive-date=October 5, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121005004107/http://www.ascap.com/eventsawards/awards/popawards/2010/Most_Performed_Songs.aspx |url-status=dead }}</ref>

== Commercial performance ==
"Obsessed" debuted at number 11 on the ], with sales of 119,266 digital downloads, making it Carey's highest debut in over a decade, since "]" (1998).<ref name=recs>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/268060/hannah-montana-mariah-carey-hit-the-billboard-hot-100|last=Ben-Yehuda|first=Ayala|title=Mariah Carey Hit The Billboard Hot 100|magazine=Billboard|date=July 16, 2009|access-date=August 16, 2009|archive-date=June 6, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140606050403/http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/268060/hannah-montana-mariah-carey-hit-the-billboard-hot-100|url-status=live}}</ref> This marked her 40th entry on the Hot 100, making her just the eighth woman in the chart's history to make 40 or more appearances.<ref name=recs /> The song peaked at number seven on the Hot 100, becoming her 27th and last top 10 hit until "]" in 2017, the second greatest number among female artists, and tying her achievements to those of ].<ref name=recs /><ref>{{cite news|first=Gary|last=Trust|url=https://www.billboard.com/biz/articles/8070924/mariah-careys-all-i-want-for-christmas-is-you-hits-hot-100s-top-10-for-first|title=Mariah Carey's 'All I Want for Christmas Is You' Hits Hot 100's Top 10 for First Time, 'Perfect' Still No. 1|magazine=Billboard|access-date=December 18, 2017|archive-date=December 22, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222035547/https://www.billboard.com/biz/articles/8070924/mariah-careys-all-i-want-for-christmas-is-you-hits-hot-100s-top-10-for-first|url-status=live}}</ref> The song stayed in the top 40 for 20 weeks, longer than her number-one hit "]" (2008).<ref name=recss /> In terms of total top 10 chart entries amongst all artists in the chart's history, Carey is now tied for fifth place with Jackson and ].<ref name=recss>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/chart-beat/267431/chart-beat-thursday-whitney-houston-mariah-carey-billie-holiday|title=Chart Beat Thursday: Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Billie Holiday – Chart Beat|last=Trust|first=Gary|magazine=Billboard|date=September 9, 2009|access-date=September 22, 2009|archive-date=September 24, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924071855/http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/chart-beat/267431/chart-beat-thursday-whitney-houston-mariah-carey-billie-holiday|url-status=live}}</ref> The song made an early debut at number 52 on the '']'' chart and has since peaked at number 12, marking Carey's 40th chart entry and placing her in second place for most charted songs among women in the 1990s and 2000s (decade) (the first being ]). Carey made her 29th appearance on the Pop Songs/Mainstream Top 40 radio chart, with "Obsessed" debuting at number 39, and peaking at eight.<ref name=mariah>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/chart-beat/267830/chart-beat-darius-rucker-mariah-carey-wilco|title=Chart Beat: Darius Rucker, Mariah Carey, Wilco|last=Trust|first=Gary|magazine=Billboard|date=August 5, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=May 11, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130511053321/http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/chart-beat/267830/chart-beat-darius-rucker-mariah-carey-wilco|url-status=live}}</ref> The arrival extends her lead for the most overall chart entries in the tally's nearly 17-year history.<ref name=mariah /> She is now three titles ahead of the second-place ] (26).<ref name=mariah />

On August 11, 2009, it was announced that the single would be released as a ] at ] store locations in the United States, her first commercial single release physically since 2002 in the country.<ref name=wal>{{cite web|url=http://www.islanddefjam.com/artist/news_single.aspx?nid=4811&artistID=7331|title=Obsessed CD Single Available at Walmart!|work=]|date=August 5, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=October 8, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121008180656/http://www.islanddefjam.com/artist/news_single.aspx?nid=4811&artistID=7331|url-status=live}}</ref> The CD single was released early at various Wal-Mart store locations, however selling enough copies an entire week before its release date to debut at number one on the Billboard ] chart, where it remained for four consecutive weeks on the chart.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/chart-beat/267709/ask-billboard-madonna-vs-whitney-whos-sold-more|title=Ask Billboard: Madonna vs. Whitney: Who's Sold More?|last=Trust|first=Gary|magazine=Billboard|date=August 14, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=October 20, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151020075417/http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/chart-beat/267709/ask-billboard-madonna-vs-whitney-whos-sold-more|url-status=live}}</ref> On July 31, 2019, "Obsessed" was certified ] by the ] (RIAA), denoting shipments of over 4,000,000 units.<ref name=riaa>{{cite certification|region=United States|type=single|artist=Mariah Carey|title=Obsessed|access-date=July 31, 2019}}</ref> This marked Carey's 12th platinum single, more than any other female artist in history.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.contactmusic.com/photos.nsf/main/manowar-performing-live-at-campo-pequeno-lisbon-portugal---020411_3279225|title=Manowar Picture – Manowar Performing Live At Campo Pequeno Lisbon, Portugal...|magazine=]|date=May 19, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=April 17, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110417011854/http://www.contactmusic.com/photos.nsf/main/manowar-performing-live-at-campo-pequeno-lisbon-portugal---020411_3279225|url-status=live}}</ref> According to ], "Obsessed" has sold over 1,742,000 copies in the United States as of July 2013.<ref name="chartwach 2013">{{cite news |url=http://music.yahoo.com/blogs/chart-watch/week-ending-july-28-2013-songs-radio-hesistates-203418912.html |title=Week Ending July 28, 2013. Songs: Radio Hesitates On One Direction |first=Paul |last=Grein |work=Chart Watch |publisher=Yahoo |date=July 31, 2013 |access-date=August 3, 2013 |archive-date=October 28, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141028230903/https://music.yahoo.com/blogs/chart-watch/week-ending-july-28-2013-songs-radio-hesistates-203418912.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On the ], the song peaked at number 20, and spent only four weeks within the singles chart.<ref name=can>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/mariah-carey/chart-history/billboard-canadian-hot-100|title=Mariah Carey: Canadian Hot 100|magazine=Billboard|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=November 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211121092110/https://www.billboard.com/artist/mariah-carey/chart-history/billboard-canadian-hot-100/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Internationally, the song achieved moderate charting due to its limited release. It was not released commercially throughout Europe, in order to give way for the album's second single, Carey's cover of ]'s classic "]".<ref name=canel>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/chartblog/2009/08/mariah_carey_obsessed.shtml|title=Mariah Carey – 'Obsessed'|last=McAlpine|first=Fraser|publisher=BBC|date=August 17, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=December 26, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111226162618/http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/chartblog/2009/08/mariah_carey_obsessed.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> On July 26, 2009, the song debuted at number 26 on the ].<ref name=aus>{{cite web|url=http://australian-charts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=Mariah+Carey&titel=Obsessed&cat=s|title=Mariah Carey – Obsessed|work=ARIA Charts|publisher=Hung Medien|access-date=August 5, 2011|archive-date=October 23, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023012250/http://australian-charts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=Mariah+Carey&titel=Obsessed&cat=s|url-status=live}}</ref> "Obsessed" peaked at number 13 in the following weeks, placing higher than "Touch My Body" (#17 in 2008), and spent a total of 13 weeks on the chart.<ref name=aus /> "Obsessed" was certified ] by the ] (ARIA), denoting shipments of over 35,000 units.<ref name=auscert>{{cite web|url=http://www.aria.com.au/pages/httpwww.aria.com.aupageshttpwww.aria.com.aupageshttpwww.aria.com.aupagesARIACharts-Accr.htm|title=ARIA Charts – Accreditations – 2009 Singles|work=]|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=February 12, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120212185140/http://www.aria.com.au/pages/httpwww.aria.com.aupageshttpwww.aria.com.aupageshttpwww.aria.com.aupagesARIACharts-Accr.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> In France, "Obsessed" debuted at its peak position of number eight, during the week dated September 26, 2009.<ref name=fra>{{cite web|url=http://lescharts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=Mariah+Carey&titel=Obsessed&cat=s|title=Mariah Carey – Obsessed|work=]|language=fr|publisher=Hung Medien|access-date=August 5, 2011|archive-date=August 27, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110827032532/http://www.lescharts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=Mariah+Carey&titel=Obsessed&cat=s|url-status=live}}</ref> The song charted for a total of 23 weeks, before dropping out on February 27, 2010.<ref name=fra /> Similarly, the song peaked at number six on the ] on July 16, as well as number 61 on the ] on September 5, 2009.<ref name=ita>{{cite web|url=http://italiancharts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=Mariah+Carey&titel=Obsessed&cat=s|title=Mariah Carey – Obsessed|work=]|publisher=Hung Medien|language=it|access-date=June 22, 2011|archive-date=July 30, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120730103548/http://italiancharts.com/showitem.asp?interpret=Mariah+Carey&titel=Obsessed&cat=s|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=neth>{{cite web|url=http://dutchcharts.nl/showitem.asp?interpret=Mariah+Carey&titel=Obsessed&cat=s|title=Mariah Carey – Obsessed|work=]|language=nl|publisher=Hung Medien|access-date=August 5, 2011|archive-date=September 17, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110917001943/http://dutchcharts.nl/showitem.asp?interpret=Mariah+Carey&titel=Obsessed&cat=s|url-status=live}}</ref> On both the ] and ], "Obsessed" peaked at numbers 16 and 21, while spending four weeks on both charts, respectively.<ref name=jap>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/mariah-carey/chart-history/billboard-canadian-hot-100|title=Mariah Carey: Japan Hot 100|magazine=Billboard|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=November 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211121092110/https://www.billboard.com/artist/mariah-carey/chart-history/billboard-canadian-hot-100/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=new>{{cite web|url=https://charts.nz/showitem.asp?interpret=Mariah+Carey&titel=Obsessed&cat=s|title=Mariah Carey – Obsessed|work=]|publisher=Hung Medien|access-date=August 5, 2011|archive-date=May 18, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170518131814/http://charts.nz/showitem.asp?interpret=Mariah+Carey&titel=Obsessed&cat=s|url-status=live}}</ref> In the United Kingdom, "Obsessed" was lined up to be released in August before the release of ''Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel'', but was pushed back several times and was ultimately cancelled in October,<ref name=canel /> despite receiving heavy radio and video airplay. After the album was released, the song peaked at number 52 from downloads alone.<ref name=canel />

== Remixes ==
] (pictured) was featured on the remix of the song]]
On June 16, 2009, an accompanying remix featuring ] ] was released alongside the original. The song kept to its original arrangement and vocals, only adding ] throughout the song, as well as adding a new intro and replacing the ] with another verse by Mane.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/2009/10/22/idUS147923+22-Oct-2009+BW20091022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140429234041/http://www.reuters.com/article/2009/10/22/idUS147923+22-Oct-2009+BW20091022|url-status=dead|archive-date=April 29, 2014|title=Gucci Mane's First Major Label Release "The State Vs. Radric Davis" out December 8, 2009|work=]|publisher=]|date=October 29, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011}}</ref> Two days before the remix's release, ], Carey's longtime friend tweeted regarding it, saying "Listening to 'Obsessed' remix on repeat, -guest rapper-cant tell u who it is but he put the G in Ghetto! Sick combo-hotness."<ref name=premiere /> In an interview with ], Mane described the remix as his "biggest collaboration yet":
<blockquote>
Shout-out to Mariah Carey and her whole squad and my boy Chris Lighty. He got me and Mariah together. I appreciate it. He put me on there as well as her. Both of them are smart for doing that. The song came out hard. Mariah knew I wanted to do a song with her. It finally happened, and it turned out hard. I just flew up there to New York, went in the studio with her. I flew right out and went back on the road. When I do a song with people, I like to really get in the studio with them so I could feel they swag and they could feel mine. The music comes out better.<ref name=mane>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1614262/gucci-mane-talks-mariah-carey-black-eyed-peas-remixes.jhtml|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130129113027/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1614262/gucci-mane-talks-mariah-carey-black-eyed-peas-remixes.jhtml|url-status=dead|archive-date=January 29, 2013|title=Gucci Mane Talks 'Hard' Remixes With Mariah Carey, Black Eyed Peas|work=MTV News|publisher=Viacom|access-date=August 13, 2011|date=June 30, 2009|first=Shaheem|last=Reid}}</ref>
</blockquote>
Gucci Mane mentioned in his book, ''The Autobiography of Gucci Mane'', that Mariah Carey wanted him to fly out to New York City just to meet her, but when he got to the studio she wasn't there. Mane first thought that it was a waste of time and he could have easily done the song from Atlanta. He was ready to leave after finishing his verse on the song when Carey appeared and it seemed like she had been there the whole time waiting for him to finish. Carey loved Mane's verse and even asked for his advice on some of the other songs she had for her upcoming album.

Aside from the primary remix, ''Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel'' included four additional remixes that were released on a separate CD along with the original.<ref name=records2>{{cite AV media notes|title=Obsessed|others=Mariah Carey|date=2009|type=UK maxi-single liner notes|publisher=Island Records|id=1766285}}</ref> It was packaged in a separate sleeve, and included the remix featuring Mane, and versions done by Jump Smokers, Cahill, ] & Paul Emanuel and ].<ref name=records />

== Music video ==
=== Background and development ===
The song's music video was directed by ], who had previously worked with Carey on six other music videos,<ref name=name /> and was shot from June 28 to 29, 2009.<ref name=name>{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2009/06/29/mariah-carey-shoots-obsessed-video/|title=Mariah Carey Shoots 'Obsessed' Video|work=Rap-Up|publisher=Devin Lazerine|date=June 29, 2009|access-date=August 16, 2009|archive-date=September 3, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090903103224/http://www.rap-up.com/2009/06/29/mariah-carey-shoots-obsessed-video/|url-status=live}}</ref> The super clean version of the song was used in the first music video. Throughout the video, Carey plays herself and a male stalker, dressed as both a bellhop and a man wearing a gray hoodie and sweatpants.<ref name=rss>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/mariah-carey-dresses-like-a-mock-eminem-in-obsessed-video-20090630|title=Mariah Carey Dresses Like a Mock Eminem In "Obsessed" Video|last=Kreps|first=Daniel|magazine=Rolling Stone|date=June 16, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=July 20, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110720004827/http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/mariah-carey-dresses-like-a-mock-eminem-in-obsessed-video-20090630|url-status=live}}</ref> Two videos were shot for "Obsessed", one for the original version, and one for the remixed version, which features ]. The video was shot predominantly at the ], and on the streets of New York City. After several photographs of Carey dressed as the stalker were leaked, critics and bloggers immediately compared Carey's costume to Eminem's usual attire, and many wrote that aside from the goatee, the pair looked alike. Carey tweeted "I am ''not'' at any point in the video playing a specific person. I'm dressed as a 'stalker' in 3 different ensembles." Carey also revealed that the music video would reference several of her favorite films, such as '']'' (2004), with the line "Why are you so obsessed with me?", as well as '']'' (2006).<ref name=rsss>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/mariah-carey-finishes-off-eminem-in-new-obsessed-video-20090716|title=Mariah Carey Finishes Off Eminem in New "Obsessed" Video|last=Kreps|first=Daniel|magazine=Rolling Stone|date=June 20, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=February 3, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130203123249/http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/mariah-carey-finishes-off-eminem-in-new-obsessed-video-20090716|url-status=live}}</ref>

In an interview with MTV News, Carey described going under-cover as the stalker role: "Well, we had a lot of people outside. I'm walking up to the Plaza , and when I was dressed as Mariah Carey, there were a lot of people just standing there taking pictures, and the street was closed down, and it was a whole rigmarole. It is what it is. So, basically, I went into costume as the stalker, and I told my bodyguard, 'I don't want you to walk with me.' So, a friend of mine was there, and I was like, 'Let's walk together.'"<ref name=viddd /> After reports continued to speculate regarding the video's subject, Ratner explained that the main inspiration behind the video was the 1983 film, '']''.<ref name=balh>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1616389/mariah-careys-obsessed-video-not-about-eminem.jhtml|title=Mariah Carey's 'Obsessed' Video 'Not About Eminem,' Director Says|last=Montgomery|first=James|work=MTV News|publisher=Viacom|date=June 17, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=November 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121107194309/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1616389/mariah-careys-obsessed-video-not-about-eminem.jhtml|url-status=dead}}</ref> On July 10, 2009, Carey announced through her Twitter account that the video would premiere on the talent competition program, '']'', which was hosted by Cannon.<ref name=billy>{{cite web|url=http://www.accesshollywood.com/mariah-careys-obsessed-video-to-premiere-on-americas-got-talent_article_20471|title=Mariah Carey's 'Obsessed' Video To Premiere On 'America's Got Talent'|last=Bush|first=Billy|work=]|date=July 11, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=August 11, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100811205011/http://www.accesshollywood.com/mariah-careys-obsessed-video-to-premiere-on-americas-got-talent_article_20471|url-status=live}}</ref> The full version premiered two days later on '']''.<ref name="islanddefjam">{{cite web|url=http://www.islanddefjam.com/artist/news_single.aspx?nid=4811&artistID=7331|title=Mariah To Premiere Obsessed Remix Video On 106 & Park Today!|work=The Island Def Jam Music Group|publisher=Universal Music Group|date=July 23, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=October 8, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121008180656/http://www.islanddefjam.com/artist/news_single.aspx?nid=4811&artistID=7331|url-status=live}}</ref> Carey was present at the show and discussed the making of the video.<ref name=viddd>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1617124/mariah-loved-going-incognito-obsessed.jhtml|title=Mariah Carey Loved Going Incognito As 'Obsessed' Stalker|work=MTV News|publisher=Viacom|access-date=August 13, 2011|date=June 30, 2009|first=Shaheem|last=Reid|archive-date=November 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121107194304/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1617124/mariah-loved-going-incognito-obsessed.jhtml|url-status=dead}}</ref>

=== Synopsis ===
]
The video begins with Carey at a photoshoot in a private room at the Plaza Hotel, speaking the line, "And I was like, why are you so obsessed with me?" Next, a ] is shown pulling up to the hotel, with Carey stepping out of the vehicle. As she gets out of the car, Carey dressed as a bellhop, assists her to the ramp where she is walking and greeting fans. The next scene finds Carey walking into the hotel, and waving to everyone, with the camera zooming to the bellhop's face to reveal him intently staring at her. As the first verse begins, Carey is shown at the photo-shoot in the hotel, with a ] by ] as the photographer. The bellhop, now dressed in a gray hoodie and sweatpants, is shown holding a hair-blower at Carey, apparently assisting with the shoot. As the shoot continues, scenes of the bellhop are shown in his room, where he has dolls of Carey on the wall, as well as quilts with the cover of her 2005 album, '']''.

The video progresses as Carey, now on the streets of New York, is walking towards the hotel. As she begins to notice the bellhop, dressed in the sweats, pursuing her, she turns around in haste and begins jolting back to the hotel while holding several shopping bags. Additionally, scenes of the stalker's home are shown again, this time more elaborately, with his walls covered with portraits of the singer, as well as album covers and lights around a large photo of her. As the video comes to an end, she waits for her limousine to arrive at the hotel. However, before she gets inside, she notices the stalker attempting to take a picture of her. She then looks directly into his camera and gives a smile. The stalker moves to take the picture but is struck down by a bus. Carey gasps in shock after witnessing the incident. The remix video for the song features the same story-line and footage, only showing inter-cut scenes of Carey dressed in a white ensemble, while laying on a vintage wooden table. As Gucci Mane stands next to her in a white suit, he pours her champagne and hands her the glass.

=== Reception ===
At the time of the video's release, several critics took notice of the similarities in Eminem's attire and Carey's stalker. Nick Levine from ] wrote: "It isn't quite as ridiculous as we were hoping, and Mariah's insisting the male stalker she plays isn't meant to be a 'specific person', but there's still plenty to enjoy in the 'Obsessed' video. There is a lot of MC cleavage, a not entirely convincing fake beard and a neat ''Mean Girls'' reference towards the end."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/music/thesound/a165164/mariahs-obsessed-video-is-here.html|title=Mariah 'Obsessed' Video is Here|last=Levine|first=Nick|work=Digital Spy|publisher=Hachette Filipacchi Médias|date=July 23, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=September 22, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120922172050/http://www.digitalspy.com/music/thesound/a165164/mariahs-obsessed-video-is-here.html|url-status=live}}</ref> '']''{{'}}s Corris Little described it as "genius!" and continued, "Move over Eminem, I'm officially obsessed with Mariah Carey. Who isn't? She can sing, she's pretty and she has really fun music videos."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/pet-rock-1.811972/watch-it-mariah-carey-s-new-video-for-obsessed-1.1309341?tags=mariah%20carey|title=Watch It: Mariah Carey's New Video for 'Obsessed'|last=Little|first=Corris|work=]|date=July 23, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011}}</ref> A writer from the '']'' called the video "shocking", and felt that Carey's disguise was so convincing, she should assume the role more often if she wants to travel incognito.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/showbiz/article-23713792-mariah-carey-goes-for-manly-image.do|title=Mariah Goes or Manly Image|work=]|date=July 23, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=January 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230115112159/https://www.thisislondontickets.co.uk/|url-status=live}}</ref> The '']''{{'}}s Jarett Wieselman described it as "human butterfly embrac her macho side", and concluded his review with "I'm guessing the video involves Mariah's butch bellhop becoming a little infatuated with the singer, or something. Basically it's another way to give her double the screentime – much like that Mariah-on-Mariah fight in 'Heartbreaker'!"<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.nypost.com/p/blogs/item_T1TbeuXCfQHqEmYDJMOjbL;jsessionid=510921ED1D1495821695103C5F2F3C49|title=Can You ID This Star?|last=Wieselman|first=Jarett|work=]|publisher=News Corporation|date=August 6, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=October 24, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024030712/http://www.nypost.com/p/blogs/item_T1TbeuXCfQHqEmYDJMOjbL;jsessionid=510921ED1D1495821695103C5F2F3C49|url-status=live}}</ref> '']'' writer Chris Baud joked about Eminem going one step further, writing: "It's great that Mariah seems to be having fun with this whole 'Miminem' thing, but we're afraid of the conflict going any further, because no one wants to see the next step: Eminem in drag."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/gossip/2009/06/30/2009-06-30_its_miminem.html|title=Mariah Carey Dresses Up as Eminem for New Video: Who's 'Obsessed' With Who?|last=Baud|first=Chris|work=]|date=June 30, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=August 4, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090804151520/http://www.nydailynews.com/gossip/2009/06/30/2009-06-30_its_miminem.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Jennifer Armstrong from '']'' complimented Carey for "going after" Eminem, and concluded "I like Mariah with a sense of humor, and I love the idea of her turning the tables on the king of celebrity-mocking videos."<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://music-mix.ew.com/2009/06/30/mariah-carey-as-eminem-yes-thats-really-her/|title=Mariah Carey as Eminem: Yes, That's Really Her|last=Armstrong|first=Jennifer|magazine=Entertainment Weekly|date=June 30, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=February 19, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110219034150/http://music-mix.ew.com/2009/06/30/mariah-carey-as-eminem-yes-thats-really-her/|url-status=live}}</ref>

== Live performances ==
Carey performed "Obsessed" on several televised appearances since its release. On August 5, 2009, Carey performed the song live for the first time on the ] of the talent competition, '']''. Carey, appearing in jeans and a black top, was accompanied by several male dancers and three back-up singers. As she performed the song, the dancers hoisted her into the air several times, and carried her to several areas on the stage. During the performance, several white lights flashed, while monitors behind the dancers showed images of Carey and the video. Breanne Heldman from ] criticized several aspects of the performance. She described the lighting as "anxiety inducing", and wrote, "That said, no one is doubting the singer's impressive set of pipes, but—frighteningly jarring lighting and quick edits aside—did she actually utilize them on 'America's Got Talent' last night?" Aside from questioning the singers live vocals, she also felt Carey seemed "robotic", and didn't show effort or interest in the performance.<ref name=agtt>{{cite web|url=http://www.eonline.com/news/mariahbot_got_talent_were_not_sure/138024|title=Mariahbot Got Talent? We're Not So Sure...|last=Heldman|first=Breanne|work=E! Entertainment Television|date=July 23, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=April 2, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120402001620/http://www.eonline.com/news/mariahbot_got_talent_were_not_sure/138024|url-status=live}}</ref> A reviewer from ] also was critical on the performance, asking if there was "anything good about ".<ref name=idol /> He claimed Carey was lip-syncing, and described it as "lackadaisical", and wrote, "the backup dancers’ moves would have probably received a big red 'X' from at least one of the judges."<ref name=idol>{{cite web|url=http://idolator.com/5261502/the-say-something-nice-challenge-mimi-mimes-obsessed-on-americas-got-talent|title=The "Say Something Nice" Challenge: Mimi Mimes 'Obsessed' On 'America's Got Talent'|website=]|date=August 6, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=January 15, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230115112157/https://www.idolator.com/5261502/the-say-something-nice-challenge-mimi-mimes-obsessed-on-americas-got-talent|url-status=live}}</ref>

In the United States, on October 2, 2009, Carey began promotion of the album on '']'', in the form of a four piece outdoor concert.<ref name=concertp>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1622933/mariah-carey-shows-off-imperfect-range-on-today.jhtml|title=Mariah Carey Shows Off Imperfect Range On 'Today'|last=Dinh|first=James|work=MTV News|publisher=Viacom|date=October 2, 2009|access-date=August 14, 2011|archive-date=November 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121107194316/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1622933/mariah-carey-shows-off-imperfect-range-on-today.jhtml|url-status=dead}}</ref> Wearing a "black leather trench coat and accessorized with a glittery microphone", Carey performed "Obsessed", "I Want to Know What Love Is", "]" and her 1991 single, "]".<ref name=concertp /> The performance of "Obsessed" featured similar choreography as on ''America's Got Talent'', in which Carey was carried around by her dancers several times.<ref name=concertp /> Carey performed "Obsessed" live on '']'' on December 16, 2009, alongside another song from the album, "It's A Wrap".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20091217%2FENTERTAIN%2F912169993%2F-1%2FNEWSMAP|title=Late Night|first=Kevin|last=McDonough|work=]|publisher=]|date=December 17, 2009|access-date=September 5, 2011|archive-date=October 5, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121005114029/http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20091217%2FENTERTAIN%2F912169993%2F-1%2FNEWSMAP|url-status=live}}</ref> At the ] ceremony in 2009, Carey performed "Touch My Body" and "Obsessed", as well as the remix to her 1995 song "]".<ref name=universal>{{cite news|url=http://www.eluniversal.com/2009/10/25/til_ava_mariah-carey-dejo-a_25A2947891.shtml|title=Mariah Carey Left Rio with a Win, and Her First Performance In Brazil Since 1999|last=Fernandez|first=Alberto|work=]|publisher=]|date=November 10, 2009|access-date=August 8, 2011|archive-date=October 2, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121002223108/http://www.eluniversal.com/2009/10/25/til_ava_mariah-carey-dejo-a_25A2947891.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> During the short ], Carey was accompanied by six men in black tie and suits, who hoisted her into the air in front of over 6,000 people during "Obsessed", and rigorous dance routines throughout "Touch My Body".<ref name=universal /> Following the release of ''Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel'', she held four concerts at the ], where she included the song on the set-list.<ref name=asa>{{cite news|url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=LVRB&p_theme=lvrb&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=12ABDA435AD487C0&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM|title=Carey feels old School, Shines Anew|last=Bracelin|first=Jason|work=]|date=September 13, 2009|access-date=August 8, 2011|archive-date=October 25, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121025234909/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=LVRB&p_theme=lvrb&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=12ABDA435AD487C0&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM|url-status=live}}</ref> Similar to the performance at the Fashion Rocks ceremony, Carey was hoisted into the air several times by four to six male dancers, each of whom circled her with intricate dancing throughout the song.<ref name=asa /> Carey featured similar choreography for the song during her ] (2009–10), where it was included throughout the entire span of the tour.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.startribune.com/templates/Print_This_Story?sid=80754257|title=Will Mariah Carey Find a Promoter For her Northrop Concert|last=Bream|first=Jon|work=]|date=January 5, 2010|access-date=August 17, 2011|archive-date=October 18, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121018022229/http://www.startribune.com/templates/Print_This_Story?sid=80754257|url-status=live}}</ref>

== In popular culture ==
In the summer of 2019, the song became a viral ] challenge "which prompted endless comments, memes and even a response from Carey herself."<ref>{{Cite magazine|last=Aniftos|first=Rania|title=How TikTok Breathed Life into a Mariah Carey Hit with the #ObsessedChallenge|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/8525840/tiktok-obsessed-challenge-mariah-carey-origin|magazine=]|access-date=November 27, 2019|archive-date=November 10, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191110023441/https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/8525840/tiktok-obsessed-challenge-mariah-carey-origin|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Corry|first=Kristin|date=August 1, 2019|title=Mariah Carey's 'Obsessed' Is the Real Song of the Summer, Thanks to TikTok|url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/bjwggw/mariah-careys-obsessed-is-the-real-song-of-the-summer-thanks-to-tiktok|website=]|language=en|access-date=April 29, 2021|archive-date=April 29, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210429015422/https://www.vice.com/en/article/bjwggw/mariah-careys-obsessed-is-the-real-song-of-the-summer-thanks-to-tiktok|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2024, ] referenced Carey and "Obsessed" on her song "]".<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/megan-thee-stallion-hiss-single-1234954543/|title=Megan Thee Stallion Strikes Back on New Single 'Hiss'|accessdate=March 30, 2024|magazine=Rolling Stone|date=January 26, 2024|last=Paul|first=Larisha}}</ref>

== Track listings and formats ==
{{col-begin}}
{{col-2}}
'''Digital download'''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://open.spotify.com/album/6rRqd9sQkWsyDBfmObjmjv|title=Obsessed|others=Mariah Carey|access-date=June 22, 2022|website=Spotify|archive-date=June 22, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220622154906/https://open.spotify.com/album/6rRqd9sQkWsyDBfmObjmjv|url-status=live}}</ref>
# "Obsessed"

'''Digital download – remix'''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/obsessed-single/1445183571|title=Obsessed|others=Mariah Carey|access-date=June 22, 2022|website=Spotify|archive-date=December 17, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201217012907/https://music.apple.com/us/album/obsessed-single/1445183571|url-status=live}}</ref>
# "Obsessed" (Remix feat. ])

'''US enhanced CD single'''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.discogs.com/release/1932556-Mariah-Carey-Obsessed|title=Obsessed (US enhanced CD single) by Mariah Carey|others=Mariah Carey|access-date=June 22, 2022|website=Discogs|archive-date=June 22, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220622154906/https://www.discogs.com/release/1932556-Mariah-Carey-Obsessed|url-status=live}}</ref>
# "Obsessed"
# "Obsessed" (Remix feat. Gucci Mane)
# "Obsessed" (Video)

'''European CD single'''<ref>{{cite AV media notes|title=Obsessed|others=Mariah Carey|date=2009|type=European CD single liner notes|publisher=Island Records|id=0602527179230}}</ref>
# "Obsessed"
# "Obsessed" (Cahill Radio Edit)

'''US 12-inch vinyl'''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.discogs.com/release/2003406-Mariah-Carey-Obsessed|title=Obsessed (US 12-inch vinyl) by Mariah Carey|others=Mariah Carey|access-date=June 22, 2022|website=Discogs|archive-date=June 22, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220622154708/https://www.discogs.com/release/2003406-Mariah-Carey-Obsessed|url-status=live}}</ref>
# "Obsessed"
# "Obsessed" (Remix feat. Gucci Mane)
# "Obsessed"
# "Obsessed" (Remix feat. Gucci Mane)
{{col-2}}

'''Obsessed (The Remixes)'''<ref name=records>{{cite AV media notes|title=Obsessed|others=Mariah Carey|date=2009|type=US maxi-single liner notes|publisher=Island Records|id=16880-2}}</ref>
# "Obsessed" (Cahill Radio Mix)
# "Obsessed" (Seamus Haji & Paul Emanuel Radio Edit)
# "Obsessed" (Friscia And Lamboy Radio Mix)
# "Obsessed" (Jump Smokers Radio Edit)
# "Obsessed" (Cahill Club Mix)
# "Obsessed" (Seamus Haji & Paul Emanuel Club Mix)
# "Obsessed" (Friscia And Lamboy Club Mix)
# "Obsessed" (Cahill Dub)
# "Obsessed" (Seamus Haji & Paul Emanuel Dub)
# "Obsessed" (Friscia And Lamboy Piano Dub)

'''''Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel'' bonus disc'''
# "Obsessed" (Cahill Radio Mix)
# "Obsessed" (Seamus Haji & Paul Emanuel Radio Edit)
# "Obsessed" (Jump Smokers Radio Edit)
# "Obsessed" (Friscia And Lamboy Radio Mix)
# "Obsessed" (Video)
# "Obsessed" (Remix feat. Gucci Mane)
{{col-end}}

== Credits and personnel ==
Adapted from the ''Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel'' liner notes.<ref>{{cite AV media notes |title=Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel (Liner Notes) |title-link=Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel |others=Mariah Carey |year=2009 |first=Mariah |last=Carey |author-link=Mariah Carey |type=Compact Disc |publisher=Island Records |location=New York }}</ref>
* ] – ], ], ]
* ] – songwriting, producer
* ] – songwriting, producer
* Victor Alexander – producer
* Brian Garter – recording
* Brian Thomas – recording
* Jaysen-Joshua Fowler – ]
* Dave Pensado – audio mixing
* Bernie Grundman – ]

== Charts ==
{{col-begin}}
{{col-2}}

=== Weekly charts ===
{|class="wikitable sortable"
|+Weekly chart performance for "Obsessed"
!Chart (2009)
!Peak<br />position
|-
{{single chart|Australia|13|artist=Mariah Carey|song=Obsessed}}
|-
|align="left"|Australia Urban (])<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.aria.com.au/issue1018.pdf| archive-url = https://webarchive.nla.gov.au/awa/20091004130000/http://pandora.nla.gov.au/pan/23790/20091005-0000/issue1018.pdf| url-status = dead| archive-date = 2009-10-04|title=The ARIA Report, Week commencing 31&nbsp; August 2009, Chart# 1245, p. 17. |access-date=March 6, 2021|publisher=Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA)}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"|3
|-
{{single chart|Flanders Tip|14|artist=Mariah Carey|song=Obsessed}}
|-
{{single chart|Wallonia|20|artist=Mariah Carey|song=Obsessed}}
|-
{{single chart|Billboardcanadianhot100|15|artist=Mariah Carey|artistid=48340|access-date=July 27, 2020}}
|-
{{single chart|Billboardcanadachrtop40|17|artist=Mariah Carey|access-date=July 27, 2020}}
|-
{{single chart|Billboardcanadahotac|45|artist=Mariah Carey|access-date=July 27, 2020}}
|-
{{single chart|Czech Republic|11|artist=Mariah Carey|song=Obsessed|year=2009|week=38}}
|-
{{single chart|Billboardeuropeanhot100|28|artist=Mariah Carey|artistid=48340}}
|-
{{single chart|France|8|artist=Mariah Carey|song=Obsessed}}
|-
|Global Dance Songs ('']'')<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/mariah-carey/chart-history/dgl/|title=Mariah Carey Chart History (Global Dance Songs)|magazine=]|access-date=April 23, 2022|archive-date=April 23, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220423190612/https://www.billboard.com/artist/mariah-carey/chart-history/dgl/|url-status=live}}</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"|9
|-
{{single chart|Italy|6|artist=Mariah Carey|song=Obsessed}}
|-
|align="left"|Japan (])<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.billboard-japan.com/charts/detail?a=hot100&year=2009&month=08&day=10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141018161934/http://www.billboard-japan.com/charts/detail?a=hot100&year=2009&month=08&day=10|title=Billboard Japan Hot 100|work=]|date=August 10, 2008|archive-date=October 18, 2014}}</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"|16
|-
| Netherlands (])<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.top40.nl/tipparade/2009/week-40|title=Tipparade-lijst van week 40, 2009|language=nl|trans-title=Tip parade list from week 40, 2009|publisher=]|access-date=April 17, 2021|archive-date=April 17, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210417225720/https://www.top40.nl/tipparade/2009/week-40|url-status=live}}</ref>
|align="center"|3
|-
{{single chart|Dutch100|61|artist=Mariah Carey|song=Obsessed}}
|-
{{single chart|New Zealand|21|artist=Mariah Carey|song=Obsessed}}
|-
| New Zealand Urban Radio (RadioScope)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.radioscope.net.nz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1710&Itemid=32|title=Urban Radio Chart October 11, 2009|publisher=RadioScope|archive-date=May 15, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100515102522/http://www.radioscope.net.nz/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2488&Itemid=32|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|align="center"|4
|-
|] (])<ref>{{cite news|url=http://mediaforest.ro/weeklycharts/HistoryWeeklyCharts.aspx?year=2009&week=41|title=Media Forest – Know You Are On Air|date=October 5, 2009|access-date=June 17, 2018|publisher=]|archive-date=October 3, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181003013843/http://mediaforest.ro/weeklycharts/HistoryWeeklyCharts.aspx?year=2009&week=41|url-status=live}} ''Note: Select 'Songs – TV'. Romanian and international positions are rendered together by the number of plays before resulting an overall chart.''</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"|20
|-
{{single chart|Slovakia|37|artist=Mariah Carey|song=Obsessed|year=2009|week=36}}
|-
{{single chart|Switzerland|61|artist=Mariah Carey|song=Obsessed}}
|-
{{single chart|UK|52|date=September 5, 2009}}
|-
{{single chart|UKrandb|15|date=September 5, 2009}}
|-
|UK Club ('']'')<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Upfront Club Top 40|magazine=]|page=35|date=September 19, 2008}}</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"|7
|-
|UK Pop Club ('']'')<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Commercial Pop Top 30|magazine=]|page=35|date=September 19, 2008}}</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"|2
|-
|UK Urban Club ('']'')<ref>{{cite magazine|title=Urban Top 30|magazine=]|page=35|date=September 19, 2008}}</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"|10
|-
{{single chart|Billboardhot100|7|artist=Mariah Carey|song=Obsessed|artistid=309338}}
|-
{{single chart|Billboarddanceclubplay|1|artist=Mariah Carey|song=Obsessed|artistid=309338}}
|-
{{single chart|Billboarddanceairplay|1|artist=Mariah Carey|access-date=April 23, 2022}}
|-
{{single chart|Billboardrandbhiphop|12|artist=Mariah Carey|song=Obsessed|artistid=309338}}
|-
{{single chart|Billboardpopsongs|8|artist=Mariah Carey|song=Obsessed|artistid=309338}}
|- |-
{{single chart|Billboardrhythmic|2|artist=Mariah Carey|song=Obsessed|artistid=309338}}
|align="left"|U.S. ''Billboard'' Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs
|align="center"|52
|} |}
{{col-2}}


=== Monthly charts ===
==Release history==
{|class="wikitable sortable"
{{Expand-section|date=April 2009}}
|+Monthly chart performance for "Obsessed"
{{Refimprove|date=May 2009}}
!Chart (2009)
{|class=wikitable
!Peak<br />position
!Region
!Date
!Format
!Label
|- |-
|Brazil (])<ref>{{Cite magazine|title=Brasil Hot 100 Airplay (Set 21, 2009)|magazine=]|publisher=BPP Promoções e Publicações|issue=1|page=79|date=October 2009}}</ref>
|rowspan="1"|United States
| style="text-align:center;"|23
|June 16, 2009
|rowspan="2"| Airplay
|rowspan="2"| ]
|- |-
|Brazil (])<ref>{{Cite magazine|title=Brasil Hot Pop & Popular: Hot Pop Songs (Set 21, 2009)|magazine=]|publisher=BPP Promoções e Publicações|issue=1|page=80|date=October 2009}}</ref>
|Europe
| style="text-align:center;"|12
|June 19, 2009
|}

=== Year-end charts ===
{|class="wikitable sortable"
|+Year-end chart performance for "Obsessed"
!Chart (2009)
!Position
|- |-
|Australia Urban (ARIA)<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.aria.com.au/pages/aria-charts-end-of-year-charts-urban-singles-2009.htm | title=End Of Year Charts – Top 50 Urban Singles 2009 | publisher=ARIA | access-date=August 31, 2018 | archive-date=February 27, 2010 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100227211127/http://www.aria.com.au/pages/aria-charts-end-of-year-charts-urban-singles-2009.htm | url-status=live }}</ref>
|Germany
| style="text-align:center;"|39
|July 31, 2009
|-
|CD Single <ref></ref>
| Brazil (])<ref>{{cite web|url=https://maistocadas.mus.br/2009/|title=Brazilian Top 100 Year-End 2009|date=April 3, 2018|publisher=]|accessdate=January 30, 2022}}</ref>
|
| style="text-align:center;"|58
|-
|Canada (Canadian Hot 100)<ref>{{cite magazine | url=http://www.billboard.com/charts/year-end/2009/canadian-hot-100 | title=Best of 2009: Canadian Hot 100 | magazine=Billboard | access-date=September 15, 2012 | archive-date=June 26, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130626090329/http://www.billboard.com/charts/year-end/2009/canadian-hot-100 | url-status=live }}</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"|94
|-
|France (SNEP)<ref>{{cite web |url=http://proxy.siteo.com.s3.amazonaws.com/disqueenfrance.siteo.com/file/dossierdepresseecomidem2010.pdf |title=Best selling Digital singles in 2009 in France |pages=30 |publisher=Syndicat National de l'Édition Phonographique |access-date=August 15, 2011 |archive-date=July 7, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707123210/http://proxy.siteo.com.s3.amazonaws.com/disqueenfrance.siteo.com/file/dossierdepresseecomidem2010.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"|71
|-
|Taiwan (Yearly Singles Top 100)<ref>{{cite web|title=台灣年度百大歌曲|url=https://www.hitoradio.com/newweb/chart_2.php?ch_year=2009&pageNum_rsList=1|publisher=HitFM|access-date=June 28, 2024}}</ref>
|style="text-align:center"|62
|-
|US ''Billboard'' Hot 100<ref>{{cite magazine| url=http://www.billboard.com/charts/year-end/2009/hot-100-songs| title=Best of 2009: Hot 100| magazine=Billboard| access-date=September 15, 2012| archive-date=April 14, 2013| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130414053719/http://www.billboard.com/charts/year-end/2009/hot-100-songs| url-status=live}}</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"|41
|-
|US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (''Billboard'')<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/charts/year-end/2009/hot-r-and-and-b-hip-hop-songs|title=Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs – Year-End 2009|magazine=Billboard|access-date=November 17, 2019|archive-date=November 4, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171104174741/http://www.billboard.com/charts/year-end/2009/hot-r-and-and-b-hip-hop-songs|url-status=live}}</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"|63
|-
|US Rhythmic (''Billboard'')<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/charts/year-end/2009/rhythmic-songs|title=Rhythmic Songs – Year-End 2009|magazine=Billboard|access-date=November 17, 2019|archive-date=January 31, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190131051814/https://www.billboard.com/charts/year-end/2009/rhythmic-songs|url-status=live}}</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"|14
|} |}
{{col-end}}


== Certifications and sales ==
==References==
{{certification Table Top|caption=Certifications and sales for "Obsessed"}}
{{reflist|2}}
{{certification Table Entry|type=single|region=Australia|award=Gold|certyear=2009|relyear=2009|access-date=January 4, 2017}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=Brazil|artist=Mariah Carey|title=Obsessed|award=Platinum|number=3|type=single|certyear=2024|relyear=2009|access-date=19 March 2024}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=New Zealand|title=Obsessed|artist=Mariah Carey|type=single|award=Platinum|relyear=2009|certyear=2023|source=radioscope|access-date=December 17, 2024}}
{{Certification Table Entry|region=United Kingdom|artist=Mariah Carey|title=Obsessed|award=Gold|type=single|relyear=2009|certyear=2025|id=17548-771-1|access-date=January 3, 2025}}
{{certification Table Entry|type=single|region=United States|artist=Mariah Carey|title=Obsessed|award=Platinum|number=4|certyear=2019|relyear=2009|access-date=July 31, 2019}}
{{Certification Table Bottom|nosales=true|streaming=true}}


== Release history ==
{{Mariah Carey}}
{| class="wikitable"
{{Mariah Carey singles}}
|+ Release dates and formats for "Obsessed"
! Region
! Date
! Format
|-
| rowspan="2"|United States
| June 16, 2009
| Radio premiere<ref>{{cite web|date=June 16, 2009|title=Mariah Carey's Sexy New Single|url=http://www.mtv.co.uk/news/mariah-carey/126699-mariah-carey-s-sexy-new-single|access-date=March 28, 2016|work=]|archive-date=October 22, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121022091424/http://www.mtv.co.uk/news/mariah-carey/126699-mariah-carey-s-sexy-new-single|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|-
|June 22, 2009
|]<ref>{{cite web|date=July 27, 2009|title=FMQB: Radio Industry News, Music Industry Updates, Nielsen Ratings, Music News and more!|url=http://www.fmqb.com/Article.asp?id=69239#29|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090901202213/http://www.fmqb.com/Article.asp?id=69239#29|archive-date=September 1, 2009|access-date=March 28, 2016|work=]}}</ref>
|-
|Worldwide
|July 7, 2009
|]<ref>{{cite web|date=July 7, 2009|title=Mariah Carey's New Single 'Obsessed' Goes Up For Sale At All Digital Stores On July 7, 2009|url=http://top40-charts.com/news.php?nid=49973|access-date=March 28, 2016|work=].com|publication-place=New York, NY|archive-date=April 8, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160408182605/http://top40-charts.com/news.php?nid=49973|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|rowspan="3"|United States
|July 21, 2009
|Digital download – Gucci Mane Remix<ref>{{cite web|title=Obsessed- Single by Mariah Carey & Gucci Mane on iTunes|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/obsessed-single/id323383051|access-date=March 28, 2016|work=]|location=US|archive-date=March 16, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160316211056/https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/obsessed-single/id323383051|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|July 27, 2009
|]<ref>{{cite web|date=July 27, 2009|title=CHR/Top 40|url=http://gfa.radioandrecords.com/publishGFA/GFANextPage.asp?sDate=07/27/2009&Format=1|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120708135554/http://gfa.radioandrecords.com/publishGFA/GFANextPage.asp?sDate=07/27/2009&Format=1|archive-date=July 8, 2012|website=]}}</ref>
|-
|August 11, 2009
|]<ref>{{cite web|title=Obsessed CD Single Available at Walmart! {{!}} News {{!}} Mariah Carey {{!}} Artists {{!}} Island {{!}} Island Def Jam|url=http://www.islanddefjam.com/artist/news_single.aspx?nid=4811&artistID=7331|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121008180656/http://www.islanddefjam.com/artist/news_single.aspx?nid=4811&artistID=7331|archive-date=October 8, 2012|access-date=March 28, 2016|work=]}}</ref>
|-
|France
|September 21, 2009
|CD single<ref>{{cite web|title=Obsessed: Mariah Carey: Amazon.fr: Musique|url=https://www.amazon.fr/Obsessed-Mariah-Carey/dp/B002IT7JTG/|access-date=March 28, 2016|work=Amazon.fr|archive-date=March 5, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305193147/http://www.amazon.fr/Obsessed-Mariah-Carey/dp/B002IT7JTG|url-status=live}}</ref>
|}

== See also ==
* ]
* ]

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

{{Mariah Carey songs}}
{{Eminem}}
{{Authority control}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Obsessed (song)}}
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Latest revision as of 23:02, 16 January 2025

2009 single by Mariah Carey

"Obsessed"
Single by Mariah Carey
from the album Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel
ReleasedJune 16, 2009 (2009-06-16)
Recorded2009
Genre
Length4:02
LabelIsland
Songwriter(s)
  • Mariah Carey
  • Christopher Stewart
  • Terius Nash
Producer(s)
Mariah Carey singles chronology
"My Love"
(2009)
"Obsessed"
(2009)
"I Want to Know What Love Is"
(2009)
Music video
"Obsessed" on YouTube

"Obsessed" is a song by American singer-songwriter Mariah Carey from her twelfth studio album, Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel (2009). The song was written and produced by Carey, Tricky Stewart and The-Dream, and was released as the album's lead single on June 16, 2009, by Island Records. The song draws musical influences from contemporary R&B and hip hop, and is built around a thumping bassline. Additionally, the song is accentuated by hand claps, while Carey's voice is processed with Auto-Tune. Lyrically, the song describes Carey's dilemma regarding constant claims of a prior relationship from rapper Eminem, although he is not specifically mentioned.

The song received generally positive reception from music critics. Some praised the song itself, highlighting it as a stand-out track from Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel and complimenting its clever lyrics and strong beat while others criticized the usage of Auto-Tune on Carey's vocals. At the time of the song's release, "Obsessed" was the center of controversy, as critics and the media suggested Carey was aiming it at Eminem, who had negatively referenced her several times in his songs. Eminem released a song called "The Warning" in response.

"Obsessed" peaked at number seven on the US Billboard Hot 100, becoming Carey's 27th top-ten hit on the chart and her only top-ten to miss the top five on the chart. In terms of total top-ten chart entries among all artists in the chart's history, Carey tied for fifth place after the song's peak, with Janet Jackson and Elton John. Internationally, the song was not released throughout parts of Europe, as Island Records decided to give priority to the album's second single, Carey's cover of Foreigner's hit "I Want to Know What Love Is". "Obsessed" peaked within the top-ten in France and Italy; and in the top 20 in Australia, Belgium, Canada and Japan.

The accompanying music video for "Obsessed" was directed by Brett Ratner, who Carey has previously worked with on many of her videos. Throughout the video, Carey plays both herself and the character of the male stalker, dressed in a bellhop uniform, as well as a gray hoodie and sweatpants. Two videos were filmed for "Obsessed", one for the original version and one for the remixed version, which features rapper Gucci Mane. The video was shot predominantly at the Plaza Hotel and on the streets of New York City. After several photographs of Carey dressed as the stalker were leaked, tabloids immediately compared Carey's costume to Eminem's usual attire. Carey performed the song live on the fourth season of America's Got Talent, Today, and throughout her Angels Advocate Tour (2009–10). Both the song and video contain references to the 2004 film Mean Girls, starring Lindsay Lohan.

Background

"The most anticipated is the Mariah project, and she just released a fire record in the building today. And we have been blasting it out all day. It's just fucking retarded. I don't think anybody is going to expect her to come out punching like she is going to come out. But she got a record. It's going to light the blogs up too because you don't know who she talking about, what she talking about, but she talking about something. And remember The-Dream told you first. So you can start that up right now. Mariah Carey has a record, and somebody's going to be very upset. I said that."

The-Dream, discussing "Obsessed" prior to its release

In 2008, Carey had suddenly cancelled a concert tour supporting her eleventh studio album, E=MC². There was heavy speculation in the media that Carey had become pregnant, and had abandoned the plans for a tour as a result. The singer had later admitted that she was pregnant during that time period, and had suffered a miscarriage, leading to the cancellation of the tour.

Carey then opted to record a new album, that would be released during the summer of 2009. During the later stages of the project, Carey released the title, Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel, that would serve as the singer's twelfth studio album. She explained how plans for a ballad to be released were put on hold, because a new song she had written "needed to be heard". On June 9, 2009, she wrote on her official Twitter account: "Seriously, this is one of my favorite songs ever. I love the whole album. I'm completely immersed in it. I can't wait for you to hear it", and announced its title as "Obsessed". Later that week, The-Dream, who co-wrote the song with Carey, claimed that the song was definitely aimed at someone in particular, and that it would upset them greatly. The song was transmitted digitally to radio stations on June 16, 2009, for immediate airplay and made its debut on Chicago radio station B96 at 2:00 pm. An official remix of the song, featuring rapper Gucci Mane, premiered on the same day.

Artwork

The single cover artwork for "Obsessed" features Carey leaning against a dirty concrete wall. She is shown wearing black underwear and a matching sheer top, with a black bra visible through the shirt. Carey's hair is featured in a long and wet style, cascading over her shoulders and right breast. The word "Obsessed" is written in large white letters over Carey's body. An anonymous writer for MTV described it as "wet and raunchy", while writing, "As you can see here the star has chosen a sexy shot to launch material from her next album. Mariah is shown busting out of a revealing black top and wearing black underwear."

Controversy

Background

In 2001, Carey decided to venture into the film industry with her debut acting role, Glitter. It was a critical and commercial failure, which led to Carey's $100 million recording contract being bought out by Virgin Records, who paid her $49 million to part ways. Carey also had personal life conflicts and erratic behavior in public appearances, leading to the singer being hospitalized. During this period in Carey's personal life, American rapper Eminem claimed to date Carey for six months. After this Eminem referred to Carey in several of his songs in a negative light, feeling angered by her disowning their alleged relationship. The back-and-forth through songs continued with "Clown" on Carey's album Charmbracelet, her 2001 interview tapes being faked as voice recordings being played at Eminem's Anger Management Tour. After playing the excerpt, Eminem would pretend to be sick before launching into his song "Puke".

On May 15, 2009, Eminem released his sixth studio album, Relapse, which included a song titled "Bagpipes from Baghdad" in which he addresses Mariah's denial that their relationship ever happened. In the lyrics, Eminem expresses that he's not done talking about the subject: "I want another crack at ya" and "Nick Cannon better back the fuck up. I'm not playing, I want her back, you punk." After the song's release, Cannon went on his website, defending Carey and expressing his disgust at Eminem's comments. Following Cannon's comments, Eminem responded sarcastically. He clarified that the song was actually "wishing the couple the best", and that it was a misunderstanding. In an interview with BBC Radio, Eminem clarified that although contained a "harsh" line, he meant well. He later commented that he respected Cannon for his response, and that he expected him to stand up for his wife.

Aftermath

After Carey premiered "Obsessed" on June 16, 2009, the media frenzied and began speculating the song was targeting at Eminem, due to its lyrics and overall message. Following the song's accompanying music video, which featured Carey playing a role that resembled the rapper, critics considered it Carey's response to Eminem's "Bagpipes from Baghdad". Soon after both the song and video's release, the rapper released another song, titled "The Warning" on July 30, 2009, which he claimed to be a retaliation. The song's lyrics allude to his supposed relationship with the singer, the music video for "Obsessed", and pictures and proof he claims to have of the couple. The song begins "Only reason I dissed you in the first place is because you denied seeing me. Now I'm pissed off", before describing Carey's impersonation of him in her video, "Oh gee, is that supposed to be me in the video with the goatee?/ Wow Mariah, didn't expect ya to go balls out." Eminem continues describing a near-sexual encounter with the singer, threatening to release voice-mails and pictures he still has in his possession. Additionally, the song features a female's voice, unknown whether or not Carey's, where she calls herself Mary Poppins, as well as several intervals of her laughter. In the aftermath of the releases, Cannon was questioned regarding the inspiration of "Obsessed", and whether it was ever directed at Eminem:

She's Mariah Carey. She's not beefin', she's a vegetarian. People keep saying was directed at certain people. To be completely honest, she did the record 'cause she's a huge fan of this movie Mean Girls, and there's a line in the movie where one of the girls is like, 'Why are you so obsessed with me?' She says that at the beginning of the song, and that's where the concept came from. But, you know, art imitates life.

Composition

"Obsessed" A sample of "Obsessed"; its built around a "thumping bass line", and features a "distorted wordless vocal hook". Additionally, the song is accentuated by hand claps, while Carey's voice is set with auto-tune.
Problems playing this file? See media help.

"Obsessed" draws influences from the R&B and hip hop music genres. The song is built around a "thumping bass line", and features a "distorted wordless vocal hook" as its instrumentation. Additionally, the song is accentuated by hand claps, while Carey's voice is set with auto-tune. Joey Guerra of the Houston Chronicle described the song's production as "an auto-tune orgy of come-hither vocals and cutesy Mariah-isms." According to the sheet music published at Musicnotes.com by Sony/ATV Music Publishing, "Obsessed" is set in common time with a tempo of 84 beats per minute. It is composed in the key of C minor, with Carey's vocals spanning from B♭3 to C7. Written and produced by Carey, The-Dream and Tricky Stewart, the song's chord progression revolves around alternating A♭ major and C minor chords. Lyrically, the song describes the protagonists dilemma regarding a stalker, and finds her asking him regarding his obsession.

After the song's release, critics heavily compared its lyrics to Eminem, and suggested Carey alluded to him and his 'obsession' with her. "Obsessed" never mentions the rapper's name, although reviewers felt it to be very obvious. The song begins with "I was like, 'Why are you so obsessed with me?'", before the music begins. This line references the 2004 film Mean Girls. As the first verse begins, Carey describes the tracks' subjects constant lies: "All up in the blogs sayin' we met at a bar / When I don't even, know who you are / Sayin' you up in my house sayin' you up in my car / When you in L.A. and I'm at Jermaine's". Additionally, the song suggests the stalker is under the influence of drugs: It must be the weed, it must be the E / 'Cause you be poppin', heard you get it poppin'." During the chorus, Carey confronts her stalker, asking: Why are you so obsessed with me / Boy I wanna know / Lying that your sexing with me / When everybody knows/ It's clear that you're upset with me / Oh, Oh, Oh, finally found a girl that you couldn't impress / last man on the earth still couldn't get this." During the song's second verse, critics complimented Carey's lyrics, highlighting phrases such as: You're a mom & pop, I'm a corporation / I'm the press conference, you're a conversation", "suggesting the rapper isn't a worthy suitor". The super clean version of the song which shares the identical time length of the album version, have the words "E" and "weed" being omitted. Two individual garble sound effects were used for the removed lyrics.

Critical reception

"Obsessed" received widespread acclaim from music critics upon release. While most reviewers complimented the song's lyrics and production, some criticized Carey for her usage of intentional auto-tune. Daniel Kreps from Rolling Stone stated that "the biting mid-tempo track is already more musically and lyrically engrossing than E=MC²'s singles." The A.V. Club's Michaelangelo Matos complimented the song's clever lyrics, and called it a "wicked diss of an unnamed Eminem for spreading rumors about their involvement." Though criticizing Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel for being full of mid-tempo numbers, James Reed from The Boston Globe felt "Obsessed" "stood out of the goo", due to its witty lyrics and strong beat production. Monica Herrera of Billboard gave the song a positive review, describing it as a "gem of a diss record that coasts, even over its sputtering moans and synth jabs." Additionally, Herrera complimented Carey's lyrics, calling them "bity and funny". Entertainment Weekly's Leah Greenblatt described the track as a "brash synth kiss-off", while Alex Macpherson from The Guardian called it "jaunty" and "wisecracking". On "Obsessed", Sal Cinquemani from Slant Magazine felt the "attitude is sexy", while Jon Caramanica from The New York Times felt the song was a stand-out track from the album, which he felt was "dated". He described that although the entire album was produced by Carey, The-Dream and Tricky Stewart, which he described as "masters of compensation, helping elevate mediocre singers — like The-Dream himself or Rihanna, on 'Umbrella' — to something sublime", "Obsessed" sounded "Dr. Dre-esque, and felt it was a notable exception from the rest of Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel.

Los Angeles Times's Ann Powers described it as an "aggressive track", while Lauren Carter of the Boston Herald wrote "Carey's musical stiff-arm ends with some vocal acrobatics to let us know she's still got it. Expect to get 'Obsessed' this summer." MTV News rated the song as one of the contenders for the "best of the summer", writing "Mimi returns, this time with an Auto-Tuned kiss-off to wannabe lotharios (and Eminem?) that will probably be the soundtrack to a million summer hookups and just as many public-intoxication collars. Glossy, flossy and decidedly "urban", Mariah strikes back. Your radio has been warned. AllMusic critic Stephen Thomas Erlewine chose the song as a "top pick" from Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel, while Amos Barshad of The New York Times listed it as the fifth top song of the summer. In contrast, "Obsessed" received a mixed review from the Los Angeles Times writer, Todd Martens, who wrote that although "its feistier Mimi than 're used to", she ultimately "has been molded to fit current trends" and that the single "again sells out the songbird to her producers." At the ASCAP 27th Annual Pop Music Awards, "Obsessed" won "Most Performed Song".

Commercial performance

"Obsessed" debuted at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100, with sales of 119,266 digital downloads, making it Carey's highest debut in over a decade, since "My All" (1998). This marked her 40th entry on the Hot 100, making her just the eighth woman in the chart's history to make 40 or more appearances. The song peaked at number seven on the Hot 100, becoming her 27th and last top 10 hit until "All I Want for Christmas Is You" in 2017, the second greatest number among female artists, and tying her achievements to those of Janet Jackson. The song stayed in the top 40 for 20 weeks, longer than her number-one hit "Touch My Body" (2008). In terms of total top 10 chart entries amongst all artists in the chart's history, Carey is now tied for fifth place with Jackson and Elton John. The song made an early debut at number 52 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and has since peaked at number 12, marking Carey's 40th chart entry and placing her in second place for most charted songs among women in the 1990s and 2000s (decade) (the first being Mary J. Blige). Carey made her 29th appearance on the Pop Songs/Mainstream Top 40 radio chart, with "Obsessed" debuting at number 39, and peaking at eight. The arrival extends her lead for the most overall chart entries in the tally's nearly 17-year history. She is now three titles ahead of the second-place Madonna (26).

On August 11, 2009, it was announced that the single would be released as a CD single at Wal-Mart store locations in the United States, her first commercial single release physically since 2002 in the country. The CD single was released early at various Wal-Mart store locations, however selling enough copies an entire week before its release date to debut at number one on the Billboard Hot Singles Sales chart, where it remained for four consecutive weeks on the chart. On July 31, 2019, "Obsessed" was certified 4× Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), denoting shipments of over 4,000,000 units. This marked Carey's 12th platinum single, more than any other female artist in history. According to Nielsen SoundScan, "Obsessed" has sold over 1,742,000 copies in the United States as of July 2013. On the Canadian Hot 100, the song peaked at number 20, and spent only four weeks within the singles chart.

Internationally, the song achieved moderate charting due to its limited release. It was not released commercially throughout Europe, in order to give way for the album's second single, Carey's cover of Foreigner's classic "I Want to Know What Love Is". On July 26, 2009, the song debuted at number 26 on the Australian Singles Chart. "Obsessed" peaked at number 13 in the following weeks, placing higher than "Touch My Body" (#17 in 2008), and spent a total of 13 weeks on the chart. "Obsessed" was certified Gold by the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA), denoting shipments of over 35,000 units. In France, "Obsessed" debuted at its peak position of number eight, during the week dated September 26, 2009. The song charted for a total of 23 weeks, before dropping out on February 27, 2010. Similarly, the song peaked at number six on the Italian Singles Chart on July 16, as well as number 61 on the Dutch Top 40 on September 5, 2009. On both the Japan Hot 100 and New Zealand Singles Chart, "Obsessed" peaked at numbers 16 and 21, while spending four weeks on both charts, respectively. In the United Kingdom, "Obsessed" was lined up to be released in August before the release of Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel, but was pushed back several times and was ultimately cancelled in October, despite receiving heavy radio and video airplay. After the album was released, the song peaked at number 52 from downloads alone.

Remixes

Gucci Mane (pictured) was featured on the remix of the song

On June 16, 2009, an accompanying remix featuring rapper Gucci Mane was released alongside the original. The song kept to its original arrangement and vocals, only adding ad libs throughout the song, as well as adding a new intro and replacing the bridge with another verse by Mane. Two days before the remix's release, Jasmine Dotiwala, Carey's longtime friend tweeted regarding it, saying "Listening to 'Obsessed' remix on repeat, -guest rapper-cant tell u who it is but he put the G in Ghetto! Sick combo-hotness." In an interview with MTV News, Mane described the remix as his "biggest collaboration yet":

Shout-out to Mariah Carey and her whole squad and my boy Chris Lighty. He got me and Mariah together. I appreciate it. He put me on there as well as her. Both of them are smart for doing that. The song came out hard. Mariah knew I wanted to do a song with her. It finally happened, and it turned out hard. I just flew up there to New York, went in the studio with her. I flew right out and went back on the road. When I do a song with people, I like to really get in the studio with them so I could feel they swag and they could feel mine. The music comes out better.

Gucci Mane mentioned in his book, The Autobiography of Gucci Mane, that Mariah Carey wanted him to fly out to New York City just to meet her, but when he got to the studio she wasn't there. Mane first thought that it was a waste of time and he could have easily done the song from Atlanta. He was ready to leave after finishing his verse on the song when Carey appeared and it seemed like she had been there the whole time waiting for him to finish. Carey loved Mane's verse and even asked for his advice on some of the other songs she had for her upcoming album.

Aside from the primary remix, Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel included four additional remixes that were released on a separate CD along with the original. It was packaged in a separate sleeve, and included the remix featuring Mane, and versions done by Jump Smokers, Cahill, Seamus Haji & Paul Emanuel and Friscia & Lamboy.

Music video

Background and development

The song's music video was directed by Brett Ratner, who had previously worked with Carey on six other music videos, and was shot from June 28 to 29, 2009. The super clean version of the song was used in the first music video. Throughout the video, Carey plays herself and a male stalker, dressed as both a bellhop and a man wearing a gray hoodie and sweatpants. Two videos were shot for "Obsessed", one for the original version, and one for the remixed version, which features Gucci Mane. The video was shot predominantly at the Plaza Hotel, and on the streets of New York City. After several photographs of Carey dressed as the stalker were leaked, critics and bloggers immediately compared Carey's costume to Eminem's usual attire, and many wrote that aside from the goatee, the pair looked alike. Carey tweeted "I am not at any point in the video playing a specific person. I'm dressed as a 'stalker' in 3 different ensembles." Carey also revealed that the music video would reference several of her favorite films, such as Mean Girls (2004), with the line "Why are you so obsessed with me?", as well as The Devil Wears Prada (2006).

In an interview with MTV News, Carey described going under-cover as the stalker role: "Well, we had a lot of people outside. I'm walking up to the Plaza , and when I was dressed as Mariah Carey, there were a lot of people just standing there taking pictures, and the street was closed down, and it was a whole rigmarole. It is what it is. So, basically, I went into costume as the stalker, and I told my bodyguard, 'I don't want you to walk with me.' So, a friend of mine was there, and I was like, 'Let's walk together.'" After reports continued to speculate regarding the video's subject, Ratner explained that the main inspiration behind the video was the 1983 film, The King of Comedy. On July 10, 2009, Carey announced through her Twitter account that the video would premiere on the talent competition program, America's Got Talent, which was hosted by Cannon. The full version premiered two days later on 106 & Park. Carey was present at the show and discussed the making of the video.

Synopsis

Carey is shown as the stalker waiting for the "real Carey" across the street. The inclusion of the stalker, as well as his attire, led to media uproar regarding the song's subject.

The video begins with Carey at a photoshoot in a private room at the Plaza Hotel, speaking the line, "And I was like, why are you so obsessed with me?" Next, a Rolls-Royce Phantom is shown pulling up to the hotel, with Carey stepping out of the vehicle. As she gets out of the car, Carey dressed as a bellhop, assists her to the ramp where she is walking and greeting fans. The next scene finds Carey walking into the hotel, and waving to everyone, with the camera zooming to the bellhop's face to reveal him intently staring at her. As the first verse begins, Carey is shown at the photo-shoot in the hotel, with a cameo by Patrick Demarchelier as the photographer. The bellhop, now dressed in a gray hoodie and sweatpants, is shown holding a hair-blower at Carey, apparently assisting with the shoot. As the shoot continues, scenes of the bellhop are shown in his room, where he has dolls of Carey on the wall, as well as quilts with the cover of her 2005 album, The Emancipation of Mimi.

The video progresses as Carey, now on the streets of New York, is walking towards the hotel. As she begins to notice the bellhop, dressed in the sweats, pursuing her, she turns around in haste and begins jolting back to the hotel while holding several shopping bags. Additionally, scenes of the stalker's home are shown again, this time more elaborately, with his walls covered with portraits of the singer, as well as album covers and lights around a large photo of her. As the video comes to an end, she waits for her limousine to arrive at the hotel. However, before she gets inside, she notices the stalker attempting to take a picture of her. She then looks directly into his camera and gives a smile. The stalker moves to take the picture but is struck down by a bus. Carey gasps in shock after witnessing the incident. The remix video for the song features the same story-line and footage, only showing inter-cut scenes of Carey dressed in a white ensemble, while laying on a vintage wooden table. As Gucci Mane stands next to her in a white suit, he pours her champagne and hands her the glass.

Reception

At the time of the video's release, several critics took notice of the similarities in Eminem's attire and Carey's stalker. Nick Levine from Digital Spy wrote: "It isn't quite as ridiculous as we were hoping, and Mariah's insisting the male stalker she plays isn't meant to be a 'specific person', but there's still plenty to enjoy in the 'Obsessed' video. There is a lot of MC cleavage, a not entirely convincing fake beard and a neat Mean Girls reference towards the end." Newsday's Corris Little described it as "genius!" and continued, "Move over Eminem, I'm officially obsessed with Mariah Carey. Who isn't? She can sing, she's pretty and she has really fun music videos." A writer from the Evening Standard called the video "shocking", and felt that Carey's disguise was so convincing, she should assume the role more often if she wants to travel incognito. The New York Post's Jarett Wieselman described it as "human butterfly embrac her macho side", and concluded his review with "I'm guessing the video involves Mariah's butch bellhop becoming a little infatuated with the singer, or something. Basically it's another way to give her double the screentime – much like that Mariah-on-Mariah fight in 'Heartbreaker'!" New York Daily News writer Chris Baud joked about Eminem going one step further, writing: "It's great that Mariah seems to be having fun with this whole 'Miminem' thing, but we're afraid of the conflict going any further, because no one wants to see the next step: Eminem in drag." Jennifer Armstrong from Entertainment Weekly complimented Carey for "going after" Eminem, and concluded "I like Mariah with a sense of humor, and I love the idea of her turning the tables on the king of celebrity-mocking videos."

Live performances

Carey performed "Obsessed" on several televised appearances since its release. On August 5, 2009, Carey performed the song live for the first time on the fourth season of the talent competition, America's Got Talent. Carey, appearing in jeans and a black top, was accompanied by several male dancers and three back-up singers. As she performed the song, the dancers hoisted her into the air several times, and carried her to several areas on the stage. During the performance, several white lights flashed, while monitors behind the dancers showed images of Carey and the video. Breanne Heldman from E! Entertainment Television criticized several aspects of the performance. She described the lighting as "anxiety inducing", and wrote, "That said, no one is doubting the singer's impressive set of pipes, but—frighteningly jarring lighting and quick edits aside—did she actually utilize them on 'America's Got Talent' last night?" Aside from questioning the singers live vocals, she also felt Carey seemed "robotic", and didn't show effort or interest in the performance. A reviewer from Idolator also was critical on the performance, asking if there was "anything good about ". He claimed Carey was lip-syncing, and described it as "lackadaisical", and wrote, "the backup dancers’ moves would have probably received a big red 'X' from at least one of the judges."

In the United States, on October 2, 2009, Carey began promotion of the album on Today, in the form of a four piece outdoor concert. Wearing a "black leather trench coat and accessorized with a glittery microphone", Carey performed "Obsessed", "I Want to Know What Love Is", "H.A.T.E.U." and her 1991 single, "Make It Happen". The performance of "Obsessed" featured similar choreography as on America's Got Talent, in which Carey was carried around by her dancers several times. Carey performed "Obsessed" live on Lopez Tonight on December 16, 2009, alongside another song from the album, "It's A Wrap". At the Fashion Rocks ceremony in 2009, Carey performed "Touch My Body" and "Obsessed", as well as the remix to her 1995 song "Fantasy". During the short set list, Carey was accompanied by six men in black tie and suits, who hoisted her into the air in front of over 6,000 people during "Obsessed", and rigorous dance routines throughout "Touch My Body". Following the release of Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel, she held four concerts at the Pearl Concert Theater, where she included the song on the set-list. Similar to the performance at the Fashion Rocks ceremony, Carey was hoisted into the air several times by four to six male dancers, each of whom circled her with intricate dancing throughout the song. Carey featured similar choreography for the song during her Angels Advocate Tour (2009–10), where it was included throughout the entire span of the tour.

In popular culture

In the summer of 2019, the song became a viral TikTok challenge "which prompted endless comments, memes and even a response from Carey herself." In 2024, Megan Thee Stallion referenced Carey and "Obsessed" on her song "Hiss".

Track listings and formats

Digital download

  1. "Obsessed"

Digital download – remix

  1. "Obsessed" (Remix feat. Gucci Mane)

US enhanced CD single

  1. "Obsessed"
  2. "Obsessed" (Remix feat. Gucci Mane)
  3. "Obsessed" (Video)

European CD single

  1. "Obsessed"
  2. "Obsessed" (Cahill Radio Edit)

US 12-inch vinyl

  1. "Obsessed"
  2. "Obsessed" (Remix feat. Gucci Mane)
  3. "Obsessed"
  4. "Obsessed" (Remix feat. Gucci Mane)

Obsessed (The Remixes)

  1. "Obsessed" (Cahill Radio Mix)
  2. "Obsessed" (Seamus Haji & Paul Emanuel Radio Edit)
  3. "Obsessed" (Friscia And Lamboy Radio Mix)
  4. "Obsessed" (Jump Smokers Radio Edit)
  5. "Obsessed" (Cahill Club Mix)
  6. "Obsessed" (Seamus Haji & Paul Emanuel Club Mix)
  7. "Obsessed" (Friscia And Lamboy Club Mix)
  8. "Obsessed" (Cahill Dub)
  9. "Obsessed" (Seamus Haji & Paul Emanuel Dub)
  10. "Obsessed" (Friscia And Lamboy Piano Dub)

Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel bonus disc

  1. "Obsessed" (Cahill Radio Mix)
  2. "Obsessed" (Seamus Haji & Paul Emanuel Radio Edit)
  3. "Obsessed" (Jump Smokers Radio Edit)
  4. "Obsessed" (Friscia And Lamboy Radio Mix)
  5. "Obsessed" (Video)
  6. "Obsessed" (Remix feat. Gucci Mane)

Credits and personnel

Adapted from the Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel liner notes.

Charts

Weekly charts

Weekly chart performance for "Obsessed"
Chart (2009) Peak
position
Australia (ARIA) 13
Australia Urban (ARIA) 3
Belgium (Ultratip Bubbling Under Flanders) 14
Belgium (Ultratop 50 Wallonia) 20
Canada (Canadian Hot 100) 15
Canada CHR/Top 40 (Billboard) 17
Canada Hot AC (Billboard) 45
Czech Republic (Rádio – Top 100) 11
European Hot 100 Singles (Billboard) 28
France (SNEP) 8
Global Dance Songs (Billboard) 9
Italy (FIMI) 6
Japan (Japan Hot 100) 16
Netherlands (Dutch Top 40 Tipparade) 3
Netherlands (Single Top 100) 61
New Zealand (Recorded Music NZ) 21
New Zealand Urban Radio (RadioScope) 4
Romania TV Airplay (Media Forest) 20
Slovakia (Rádio Top 100) 37
Switzerland (Schweizer Hitparade) 61
UK Singles (OCC) 52
UK Hip Hop/R&B (OCC) 15
UK Club (Music Week) 7
UK Pop Club (Music Week) 2
UK Urban Club (Music Week) 10
US Billboard Hot 100 7
US Dance Club Songs (Billboard) 1
US Dance/Mix Show Airplay (Billboard) 1
US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard) 12
US Pop Airplay (Billboard) 8
US Rhythmic (Billboard) 2

Monthly charts

Monthly chart performance for "Obsessed"
Chart (2009) Peak
position
Brazil (Brasil Hot 100 Airplay) 23
Brazil (Brasil Hot Pop Songs) 12

Year-end charts

Year-end chart performance for "Obsessed"
Chart (2009) Position
Australia Urban (ARIA) 39
Brazil (Crowley) 58
Canada (Canadian Hot 100) 94
France (SNEP) 71
Taiwan (Yearly Singles Top 100) 62
US Billboard Hot 100 41
US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard) 63
US Rhythmic (Billboard) 14

Certifications and sales

Certifications and sales for "Obsessed"
Region Certification Certified units/sales
Australia (ARIA) Gold 35,000
Brazil (Pro-Música Brasil) 3× Platinum 180,000
New Zealand (RMNZ) Platinum 30,000
United Kingdom (BPI) Gold 400,000
United States (RIAA) 4× Platinum 4,000,000

Shipments figures based on certification alone.
Sales+streaming figures based on certification alone.

Release history

Release dates and formats for "Obsessed"
Region Date Format
United States June 16, 2009 Radio premiere
June 22, 2009 Rhythmic radio
Worldwide July 7, 2009 Digital download
United States July 21, 2009 Digital download – Gucci Mane Remix
July 27, 2009 Mainstream radio
August 11, 2009 CD single
France September 21, 2009 CD single

See also

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