"butterfly" garnered generally positive reviews from music critics, many of whom embraced carey's musical transition. reviewers complimented the album for its mature sound and production and commended carey's musical direction. it was certified five-times platinum by the recording industry association of america (riaa), received the million award in japan, and has sold over 10 million copies worldwide. though released during carey's heavily publicized conflict with sony music, the album became a commercial success, topping the albums chart in many countries, including australia, canada, japan, the netherlands, as well as the united states.