Despite some drama the night before, Mariah Carey helped kick off the annual tree lighting in New York City on Wednesday by serenading the crowd with her classic holiday tune “All I Want For Christmas Is You.”

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The 44-year-old took the stage in front of thousands at Rockefeller Center in a sparkly red gown and had several children as backup dancers.

The segment was intended to be pre-recorded on Tuesday, but Carey failed to show up to the taping on time. According to reports, the songstress was three hours late because she was dealing with her impending divorce with her lawyer. When Carey finally showed up, NBC executives decided to axe the performance.

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Carey, who reportedly didn’t want to upset her fans, returned Wednesday night for the live show.

“Last night's situation was beyond my control. I apologize to all that showed up, you know that I would never want to disappoint you,” she tweeted on Dec. 3. “You've kept me here, in your hearts, and I keep you in mine always. We are #lambily! #ThereForMe.”

Her rep also said, "Mariah will be performing her No. 1 Christmas classic live tonight as the opening performer at the Rockefeller Center tree lighting. I don't comment on Mariah's personal life."

Carey wasn’t the only singer that performed last night. Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett took the stage for “Winter Wonderland” while Idina Menzel sang “Holly Jolly Christmas.” A cappella group Pentatonix peformed “Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town,” Prince Royce sang “Jingle Bell Rock,” Darius Rucker serenaded with “White Christmas” and Trisha Yearwood closed the show.

See Carey's performance below:

Tags: Mariah Carey