Mariah Carey has been named the 2026 MusiCares Person of the Year. The honor highlights her successful music career and long-standing commitment to philanthropy. She will also be celebrated for her artistry, including being the best-selling female artist of all time.
With over 200 million albums sold and 19 No. 1 singles, Carey’s star continues to rise. She is also recognized for her devoted work as a humanitarian. In addition to founding Camp Mariah to support disadvantaged youth, Carey also provided relief for communities impacted by Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mariah Carey’s rise to fame
Carey rose to fame in 1990 with her self-titled debut album. The album topped the US Billboard 200 for eleven consecutive weeks. It also spawned four consecutive number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100: “Vision of Love,” “Love Takes Time,” “Someday,” and “I Don’t Wanna Cry”. She became the first artist to have her first five singles reach number one on the chart. To date, Carey has received numerous accolades, including five Grammy Awards, ten American Music Awards, fourteen Billboard Music Awards, and nineteen World Music Awards.
Mariah Carey’s talent continues to be widely recognized
View this post on Instagram
The Person of the Year award is presented by MusiCares to honor artists for their career achievements and philanthropic efforts. Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy and MusiCares, praised Carey as a true creative force whose voice has helped shape the sound of our times. Theresa Wolters, Executive Director of MusiCares, highlighted that Carey has consistently used her platform for tangible support through youth empowerment, disaster relief, and programs advancing health and social welfare.
Proceeds from the gala support numerous MusiCares’ programs. These programs include health and wellness services, addiction recovery, preventive care, and disaster relief. The 35th annual Person of the Year gala will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at the Los Angeles Convention Center.
Don't stop here
Every Score. Every Story. One Home.
Breaking sports, entertainment and news from across the Total Apex network, updated all day.
Get the Full Story →
