Foo Fighters, Adam Lambert and The Pretty Reckless’ Taylor Momsen are set to honour Mariah Carey at the 2026 MusiCares Person of the Year benefit gala.
Foo Fighters and more to honour Mariah Carey
First held in 1991 when David Crosby was venerated, the MusiCares Person of the Year gala celebrates a music act for their creative work and charity efforts, and the event also raises vital funds to support the health and well-being of the music community.
Previous honourees over the past 35 years include Phil Collins (1997), Bono (2003), Sting (2004), Don Henley (2007), Neil Young (2010), Paul McCartney (2013), Bob Dylan (2015), Tom Petty (2017), Fleetwood Mac (2018), Jon Bon Jovi (2024) and The Grateful Dead (2025).
This year’s event will take place on Friday 30th January 2026, a couple of days before the Grammy Awards ceremony at the Los Angeles Convention Center and it will celebrate ‘Carey’s storied career and philanthropic impact.’
Alongside Foo Fighters, Adam Lambert and Taylor Momsen, other performers include Billy Porter, Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, Laufey, Charlie Puth, Kesha, Maggie Rogers, and Teddy Swims.
“Mariah Carey’s music has touched the hearts of millions and inspired countless artists,” says Theresa Wolters, Executive Director of MusiCares.
“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.”
Mariah Carey added, “I’m deeply honoured 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!”
The MusiCares Person of the Year gala will kick off with a cocktail reception, followed by a seated dinner and the star-studded tribute concert featuring performances celebrating Carey’s musical achievements and her philanthropic contributions.
Mariah Carey was nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2025, and she recently expressed her desire to release her alternative rock album ‘Someone’s Ugly Daughter’ that she recorded back in 1995.
