Mariah Carey named MusiCares 2026 person of the year ahead of Grammy awards

Mariah Carey will be honored at MusiCares 2026 gala for her decades of musical excellence and philanthropic efforts

Mariah Carey has been announced as the 2026 MusiCares Person of the Year and will be honored at the annual benefit gala held on January 30, 2026, at the Los Angeles Convention Center—just two days before the Grammy Awards. The recognition celebrates Carey’s extensive musical legacy and her decades-long commitment to philanthropy.

Carey, who recently released her 16th studio album Here For It All, was chosen for her impact on the music industry and her ongoing humanitarian work. Throughout her career, she has supported various charitable causes, including relief efforts following Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic. She also co-founded Camp Mariah in partnership with the Fresh Air Fund, which empowers underserved youth by providing career-focused educational programs.

“We are honored to recognize Mariah Carey as this year’s MusiCares Person of the Year, a true creative force and once-in-a-generation talent,” said Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy and MusiCares. “Her artistry and her voice have helped shape the sound of our times. We look forward to celebrating her remarkable career on this very special night.”

MusiCares, a charitable arm of the Recording Academy, has hosted its Person of the Year gala annually since 1991 to raise funds for health and human services for music professionals. Past honorees have included iconic figures such as Dolly Parton, Joni Mitchell, Tom Petty, and the Grateful Dead.

Theresa Wolters, executive director of MusiCares, emphasized the importance of Carey’s philanthropic efforts in the selection. “Mariah Carey’s influence extends far beyond her remarkable artistry,” Wolters said. “She has used her platform consistently to provide tangible support to communities, whether through disaster relief, youth empowerment, or programs that help those facing barriers to opportunity.”

Carey’s recognition as MusiCares Person of the Year highlights both her musical achievements and her enduring commitment to uplifting others.