Mariah Carey is the 2026 MusiCares Person of the Year
The Recording Academy has praised Mariah Carey as a "true creative force".
Mariah Carey is set to be honoured as the 2026 MusiCares Person of the Year.
Recording Academy officials have recognised the 56-year-old for her "extraordinary career" and her "commitment to supporting communities and people in need".
"I’m so honoured to be named the 2026 @musicares Person of the Year. Grateful to be celebrated through this special #GRAMMY Week event, raising vital funds to support the music community year-round," Carey wrote on Instagram.
The 'Honey' hitmaker is the youngest honoree since 2004. The five-time Grammy Award winner will be celebrated at a fundraising gala in Los Angeles on January 30.
The ceremony, which includes a tribute concert, is held shortly before the Grammys. Funds raised during the gala will support various MusiCares programs.
Some initiatives include addiction recovery, disaster relief and emergency support for music professionals.
Theresa Wolters, Executive Director of MusiCares, says the 'Type Dangerous' singer's influence extends beyond her artistry.
"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," Wolters said.
"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. Honouring 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."
Harvey Mason jr., CEO of the Recording Academy and MusiCares, describes Carey as "a true creative force and once-in-a-generation talent".
Carey will join a long list of honorees dating back to 1991. Some previous stars who have been honoured include Natalie Cole, Gloria Estefan, Aretha Franklin, Barbra Streisand, Carole King, Dolly Parton and Joni Mitchell.
Male recipients include Sting, Quincy Jones, Luciano Pavarotti, Stevie Wonder, Bono and Elton John.
READ: Mariah Carey's hilarious reaction to Katy Perry's space trip
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