Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey is launching a summer tour in the U.S, her first major tour since 2003. The project is called The Adventures of Mimi and will include shows in more than 30 cities.

"I've always associated going to a show with summer, and the sense of freedom that evokes," Carey says. "Summertime is the best time for tours, I think. Not that I'm the queen of touring."

Pop diva Carey, who has re-established herself at the top of the pop charts with her six-times-platinum "The Emancipation of Mimi", added that her journey around the U.S will be recorded and during the trip she'll use even a bus. "I had a small one in Europe, but I didn't sleep on it or anything. Someone, I won't say who, told me, 'The bathroom may be a little small for you.' "

"I know that my fans already understand who I am. Sometimes I think they get me more than I get myself. But I want everyone who sees these shows to get a better understanding of me, my personal side, by the time they leave," Carey says.

Her shows will also feature Rappers Jermaine Dupri, Busta Rhymes and Snoop Dog.