Yes, Mariah Carey has stated that she knows a little Spanish.
When directly asked about her proficiency in Spanish, the acclaimed musical artist confirmed, "Yes, a little." This connection to the language and culture is rooted in her family's heritage, providing a personal link to Spanish-speaking origins.
Her Heritage Connection
Mariah Carey's connection to Spanish stems from her paternal lineage. Her grandfather's original last name was Nuñez, indicating Hispanic or Spanish ancestry. Upon arriving in America, he made the decision to change his surname to Carey, reportedly to facilitate greater acceptance. Mariah herself has noted the irony in this choice, as 'Carey' is an Irish name, and Irish immigrants also faced discrimination during that period. This background highlights a rich, multicultural heritage that includes roots in both Hispanic and Irish traditions, contributing to her declared, albeit limited, understanding of the Spanish language.