MusiCares has announced the lineup of performers who will honor the music of Mariah Carey at the 2026 MusiCares Person of the Year benefit gala. Carey will be honored at the 35th annual event, held at the Los Angeles Convention Center on Friday, January 30, 2026 — two nights before the 2026 Grammy Awards, which is held at Crypto.com Arena. Tickets are available here.
The multi-genre list of performers includes John Legend, Foo Fighters, Jennifer Hudson, Teddy Swims, Adam Lambert, Laufey, Maggie Rogers, Charlie Puth, Kesha, Taylor Momsen and Billy Porter. Additional artists will be announced leading up to the event. Carey shared in a statement: “I’m deeply honored to have these extraordinary artists come together for this evening. Their generosity, their presence, and their commitment to this moment mean more to me than I can express. Being part of this celebration in benefit of MusiCares and the support they provide to those in the music community makes this night even more special. I’ve always believed that music heals, and it’s meant to be shared.”
MusiCares, the non-profit organization established in 1989 and incorporated in 1993 by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, is dedicated to supporting music professionals in need of financial, medical, or personal assistance. Carey is being honored for her extensive philanthropic work and commitment to uplifting underrepresented communities. Carey has provided aid to those affected by crises such as Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic, and she founded Camp Mariah to empower underserved youth while promoting education, health, and social advancement.
Theresa Wolters, MusiCares’ executive director, said: “Mariah Carey’s music has touched the hearts of millions and inspired countless artists. It will be thrilling to hear these performers bring their own voices to her landmark songs, offering fresh interpretations that celebrate her artistry in new ways — a reminder of the power of music to connect us all. Person of the Year is more than a tribute: it’s a moment for our community to come together and give back to the humans behind the music. The support raised through this gala allows us to stand with music professionals in ways that truly matter, caring for their mental and physical health, addressing unexpected challenges, and helping them build the foundation for sustainable, fulfilling careers.”
Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy and MusiCares, echoed that sentiment, calling Carey “a true creative force and once-in-a-generation talent.” He added, “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.
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.
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