 AllMusic editor Stephen Thomas Erlewine picked "Shake It Off" as a top pick from the album.Michael Paoletta, writing for "Billboard", gave the song a positive review, complimenting its lyrics, production and Carey's vocals.He concluded his review with his assurance that the song would be a success, writing "After 'We Belong Together' brought her back to radio big time, 'Shake It Off' will take Carey's good fortune to the next step."