Mariah Carey Named 2026 MusiCares Person of the Year: A Tribute to a Music Icon
Mariah Carey has been selected as the 2026 MusiCares Person of the Year, with the event set to take place at the Los Angeles Convention Center on January 30, 2026. At 56, Carey will be the youngest honoree since Sting in 2004 and the youngest woman since Gloria Estefan in 1994. The event will mark MusiCares' 35th benefit gala, supporting various programs for music professionals.
The MusiCares Person of the Year gala has been a longstanding tradition, honoring artists like David Crosby, Aerosmith, Joni Mitchell, Berry Gordy, and Smokey Robinson, among others. Mariah Carey's philanthropic efforts, including relief work for Hurricane Katrina and COVID-19, as well as initiatives supporting underserved youth, have been recognized. Her dedication to making a difference in communities aligns with MusiCares' mission of providing support to music professionals.
Carey's musical legacy includes numerous accolades, such as induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and receiving the Global Impact Award from The Recording Academy's Black Music Collective. With 19 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 and six No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200, Carey's influence in the music industry is undeniable. Her contributions to both pop and R&B genres have earned her five Grammy Awards and a place among the top artists in music history.
The MusiCares event will feature a cocktail reception, dinner, and a tribute concert to celebrate Mariah Carey's remarkable career. Tickets for the event are available for purchase on the organization's website, with individual tickets priced between $3,000 and $7,000, and tables for 12 ranging from $30,000 to $80,000. The event will be produced by Lewis & Clark, with sponsorship from AEG and the Wasserman Foundation.
In conclusion, Mariah Carey's selection as the 2026 MusiCares Person of the Year highlights her enduring impact on the music industry and her commitment to philanthropy. The gala will serve as a tribute to her remarkable career and contributions to music, while also raising funds to support MusiCares' programs for music professionals.