A few weeks after Mariah Carey’s new video “Beautiful” featuring Miguel was released, the former “American Idol” judge announced the date the album will come out: July 23.

The date for the new album has been pushed back a few times, but after the singer announced the date on Twitter on Wednesday, it appears that the release date is finally set in stone. It has been four years since Carey released a studio album (not counting holiday albums or other collaborations), but judging by the fan reception to “Beautiful,” it appears the wait has been well worth it.  Carey’s fans were thrilled to see the 43-year-old mom to two strut her stuff on camera again.

The single made the Billboard Hot 100 list and peaked at spot #20, where it currently remains.  If the song makes it to the #1 spot and stays there for at least a couple of weeks, Carey will beat out Elvis for the most cumulative weeks at #1.  Not only that, with the new single and album, Carey has a chance to steal the record for the most top 10 singles.  The Beatles have held the record for decades with 20 top 10 singles, but Carey isn’t far behind with 18.

Carey will go on tour for the new album later this year, which is the reason she cited for pulling out from “American Idol.”  Between a huge ratings drop and the constant conflict between Carey and co-judge Nicki Minaj, it seemed obvious that the new judges wouldn’t be asked back for another season.  In fact, sources close to the show said that “Idol” would start from scratch as far as the format and judges were concerned.  Regardless of what really caused Carey to leave as a judge, between the tour and caring for her and husband Nick Cannon’s twins, it appears she will have enough to keep herself busy in the coming months.

If there is any animosity between Carey and “American Idol,” she doesn’t show it, as she is letting the Top 3 (Candice Glover, Kree Harrison and Angie Miller) perform background vocals on her new album.  While winner Glover will get a record deal automatically, this could be a big break for the runners-up.

Another little diva will be making an appearance on the album as well–Carey’s toddler daughter Monroe.  “My little girl is going to be appearing on the album,” Carey said. “She can’t really put a complete sentence together … she was 1-year-old when she started … but she did a good job!”