Entertainment Biz - MusiCares to Honor Mariah Carey as 2026 Person of the Year

Mariah Carey, Photo by Ethan James Green

Celebrating the Five-Time GRAMMY Award-Winning Global Music Icon for Her Profound Impact On and Off the Stage

SANTA MONICA, Calif.USA -- (BUSINESS WIRE)

Tuesday October 21, 2025

MusiCares has named five-time GRAMMY winner and 2024 Recording Academy Global Impact Award honoree Mariah Carey as the 2026 MusiCares Person of the Year. Carey, one of the most celebrated voices in music, will be honored for her extraordinary career as well as her long-standing commitment to supporting communities and people in need. The 35th annual Person of the Year benefit gala will be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center on Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, two nights before the 2026 GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena.

"Mariah Carey's influence extends far beyond her remarkable artistry," said Theresa Wolters, Executive Director of MusiCares. "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. Her work exemplifies the values at the heart of MusiCares: creating systems of care that lift people up and ensure music professionals and communities can thrive. Honoring her as Person of the Year celebrates both her incredible musical legacy and her dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others."

Over a career of more than three decades, Carey has captivated audiences worldwide with her signature voice, record-breaking achievements and creative innovation. Her courage, vision and authenticity have made her a trailblazer for women across generations, inspiring countless artists who see her as proof of what's possible when talent and perseverance meet purpose. Beyond her music, Carey has remained deeply committed to helping others, providing relief for communities impacted by Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic. She founded Camp Mariah in partnership with the Fresh Air Fund to support underserved youth and has championed initiatives advancing health, education and social welfare, reflecting a lifelong commitment to giving back.

"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."

The MusiCares Person of the Year ceremony is one of the most anticipated events of GRAMMY Week. The evening features a cocktail reception, dinner and a tribute concert with performances by renowned artists celebrating Carey's musical achievements and philanthropic contributions.

Since 1991, the Person of the Year gala has raised funds to support MusiCares' programs, including health and wellness services, addiction recovery, preventive care, disaster relief, and emergency support for music professionals. Carey joins a distinguished list of MusiCares honorees including the Grateful Dead, Jon Bon Jovi, Berry Gordy and Smokey Robinson, and Joni Mitchell, representing a legacy of immense talent spanning generations.

The event will again be produced by live event broadcast outfit Lewis & Clark, made up of Joe Lewis and R.A. Clark.

The event would not be possible without support from our sponsors AEG and the Wasserman Foundation.

Tables and tickets are available for purchase at http://personoftheyear.musicares.org/. For more information about the event or sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.musicares.org or email personoftheyear@musicares.org.

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