Mariah was celebrated for her profound impact on and off the stage at the 2026 MusiCares Person of the Year benefit gala, which took place Friday, January 30, 2026. 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. Mariah joins a distinguished list of MusiCares honorees including Stevie Wonder, Lionel Richie, Elton John, and Toni Bennett, representing a legacy of immense talent spanning generations.
“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.”
The 35th annual Person of the Year benefit gala was held at the Los Angeles Convention Center and saw music and celebrated Mariah with a special concert paying tribute to her music, with various artists covering songs from her illustrious 30-plus-year career. The star-studded concert featured an assortment of Grammy-winning and Grammy-nominated artists such as Adam Lambert, Billy Porter, Busta Rhymes, Charlie Puth, Foo Fighters, Flo, Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, Kesha, Laufey, Maggie Rogers, and Teddy Swims. Other performers included Chanté Moore, Spliff Star, and The Pretty Reckless frontwoman Taylor Momsen.
