What makes any of you think that its THE ACTUAL date.
Could just be a smoke and mirrors and literally drop 2 weeks before, 3weeks. You never know.
I think Mariah said this for the fans that were waiting, too give them a 'rough' idea of its expected release - Just to let them know its coming and not delayed again. I highly doubt she will actually announce its a surprise release and then GIVE the date. Its stupid and the label would never allow it.
We all had a date, and then she decided on this marketing strategy and announced it... I think that date is way off and she/they're doing this to confuse us to give an actual surprise..