Five-time Grammy winner Mariah Carey was named Tuesday the 2026 MusiCares Person of the year, honoring not only her extensive career but her work to support people and communities in need.
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"Mariah Carey's influence extends far beyond her remarkable artistry," Theresa Wolters, executive director of MusiCares, said in a statement. "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."
MusiCares officials cited not only her three-decade music career, but her history of charitable efforts, including providing relief for people impacted by Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic. She is also the founder of Camp Mariah, which helps support under-served children, and was led efforts in support of health, education and social welfare programs.
Carey will be honored during the 35th annual Person of the Year fundraising gala on Jan. 30 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. The event will be held two nights before the 2026 Grammy Awards. Proceeds from the event help support various MusiCares programs, including health and wellness services, addiction recovery, disaster relief and emergency support for music professionals.
Previous recipients of the MusiCares Person of the Year honor include Jon Bon Jovi, Berry Gordy, Joni Mitchell and the Grateful Dead.
The nonprofit MusiCares was founded by the Recording Academy in 1989 as a charitable support system for members of the music community.
"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," Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy and MusiCares, said in a statement.
"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."
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