 The song was positively reviewed by contemporary music critics , many of whom complimented its clever use of the " Genius of Love " hook as well as Carey 's vocal performance . " Fantasy " experienced strong success around the world , especially in the United States . It became the second song in Billboard history , and the first by a female , to debut atop the Hot 100 . Additionally , aside from topping the chart for eight consecutive weeks , the song achieved strong success outside the United States , topping the charts in Australia , Canada and New Zealand and becoming a top @-@ five hit in Belgium , Finland , France and the United Kingdom . 
