Mariah Carey MusiCares Person Year 2026 honor was announced Tuesday as the organization recognizes the five-time Grammy Award winning artist for providing support to many different underserved communities . Those efforts include providing relief for those impacted by Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic as well as founding Camp Mariah to support underserved youth and advance health, education and social welfare . Carey will be honored at the 35th annual Person of the Year benefit gala at the Los Angeles Convention Center on January 30 .
Mariah Carey MusiCares Person Year 2026 gala takes place two nights before the Grammy Awards are held at the adjacent Crypto.com Arena. The announcement arrives on heels of Here for It All, her first studio album in seven years out last month . Carey is the first woman artist to be honored as MusiCares Person of the Year since Joni Mitchell in 2022 .
Mariah Carey MusiCares Person Year 2026 recognition celebrates her influence extending far beyond her remarkable artistry according to executive director Theresa Wolters . 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 . Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. described Carey as a true creative force and once-in-a-generation talent.
Mariah Carey MusiCares Person Year 2026 honor joins prestigious past recipients including Grateful Dead, Jon Bon Jovi, Joni Mitchell, Dolly Parton and Tom Petty. The event usually features performances by stars across multiple genres performing the honoree’s songs. Tables and tickets are available for purchase now with the performer lineup to be announced in coming weeks.
