Mark Baker / Sony Music Archive via Getty Ima

Mariah Carey is one of the best singer-songwriters of all time. As a vocalist, there is no one like her. Her voice hasn't just inspired a few along the way — it's inspired generations of artists. Most people know her hits (how could you not?), but not everyone knows just how many flawless, powerful, and moving performances she has.

With a career ranging three decades, Mariah has performed to sold-out stadiums of adoring fans, small rooms of skeptics, award show audiences of fans and naysayers alike, and just about every person in this country at some point. Featuring her iconic whistle notes, unbelievably elastic runs, and inimitable tone, these are her top 100 performances.

I tried not to include too many or overuse certain tour dates — like, every performance at Madison Square Garden and Tokyo Dome is perfection — so don't be upset if certain performances had to be cut.

This may have been the hardest countdown process, but here it is, Mariah's top 100 performances. Check out the top 10 for some explanations.