Mariah Carey Named MusiCares Person of the Year in Prestigious Honor

Mariah Carey has been named the 2026 MusiCares Person of the Year. The Recording Academy’s charity arm made the official announcement. The honor recognizes her immense artistic contributions and her philanthropic work.

A special gala will be held in her honor on January 30, 2026. The event is a key part of Grammy Week. It raises critical funds to support musicians in need.

Celebrating a Legendary Career and Charitable Heart

The star reacted with gratitude on her official social media. She called the honor “incredible.” Carey also emphasized the importance of the event’s fundraising mission for the music community.

Producers plan to celebrate her extraordinary career. They will also highlight her long-standing commitment to helping people. Her past relief efforts for Hurricane Katrina and Covid-19 were noted by sources like Reuters.

Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, praised Carey as a “once-in-a-generation talent.” He said her voice helped shape the sound of our times. The music industry widely supports this selection.

A Legacy of Giving Back to the Community

This honor solidifies Carey’s status beyond her record-breaking music. It acknowledges her role as a humanitarian. Her work with initiatives like Camp Mariah for underserved youth is a key part of her legacy.

The gala will take place at the Los Angeles Convention Center. It occurs just two nights before the 2026 Grammy Awards. The event is one of the most sought-after tickets of the season.

Carey now joins an elite group of past honorees. This list includes legends like Joni Mitchell, Dolly Parton, and Fleetwood Mac. The selection underscores her enduring influence across all facets of the music world.

The 2026 MusiCares Person of the Year title is a fitting tribute to Mariah Carey’s dual legacy. It celebrates both her unparalleled artistry and her profound generosity. This event will undoubtedly be a landmark celebration for a true music icon.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is the MusiCares Person of the Year award?

It is a prestigious honor presented by the charity foundation of the Recording Academy. The award recognizes both artistic achievement and dedication to philanthropy. A gala is held to raise money for musicians in financial, medical, or personal crisis.

When will the Mariah Carey MusiCares gala be held?

The event is scheduled for January 30, 2026. It will take place at the Los Angeles Convention Center. This is two days before the 2026 Grammy Awards ceremony.

Who has received this honor in the past?

Past recipients include many music legends. Jon Bon Jovi, Joni Mitchell, and Dolly Parton have all been honored. The list also includes iconic bands like Fleetwood Mac.

Why was Mariah Carey chosen for this award?

She was chosen for her extraordinary career and her charitable work. The selection committee highlighted her impact as a vocalist and songwriter. Her long history of supporting disaster relief and youth causes was also a major factor.

How does the MusiCares gala help the music community?

The event is a major fundraiser. All proceeds support MusiCares’ programs. These programs offer critical assistance to music people in times of need.