Foo Fighters, Laufey, and Charlie Puth Set to Honor Mariah Carey at the MusiCares Gala

The music world is preparing for a night of celebration, tribute and giving back as some of the industry’s most recognizable names gather in Los Angeles to honor one of its most iconic voices.

On Friday, January 30, the Los Angeles Convention Center will host the 35th annual MusiCares® Person of the Year Gala, where Mariah Carey will be recognized as the 2026 honoree. The prestigious title celebrates not only Carey’s decades-spanning musical legacy, but also her ongoing philanthropic efforts and impact on the broader music community.

A Star-Studded Tribute Lineup

The evening will feature a powerful lineup of performers drawn from across genres and generations, each set to reinterpret Carey’s legendary catalog in their own distinctive style. Among the artists confirmed to take the stage are the Foo Fighters, Laufey, Charlie Puth, Kesha, John Legend, Maggie Rogers, Taylor Momsen of The Pretty Reckless, Jennifer Hudson, Adam Lambert, Billy Porter and Teddy Swims.

The event promises a unique blend of rock, pop, soul and alternative influences, offering fresh perspectives on songs that have defined careers, soundtracked decades and inspired countless musicians around the world.

Adding to the night’s energy, Carey’s longtime collaborator Jermaine Dupri will step behind the decks to deliver a specially curated DJ set. Daniel Moore II will serve as musical director, guiding the flow of the performances, while Lewis & Clark will oversee production for the gala. Organizers have also confirmed that more artists will be announced in the days leading up to the event, further building anticipation for what is expected to be one of the most memorable MusiCares evenings in recent years.

Mariah Carey Reflects on the Honor

In a heartfelt statement, Carey expressed her gratitude and emphasized the deeper meaning behind the celebration.

“I’m deeply honored to have these extraordinary artists come together for this evening,” she said. “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.”

For Carey, whose career spans more than three decades and includes countless chart-topping hits, Grammy Awards and record-breaking achievements, the recognition is as much about community as it is about personal legacy.

Celebrating Impact Beyond the Stage

Theresa Wolters, Executive Director of MusiCares, highlighted why Carey was chosen for this year’s honor.

“Mariah Carey’s music has touched the hearts of millions and inspired countless artists,” Wolters said. “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. This night is a reminder of the power of music to connect us all.”

Wolters also emphasized that the Person of the Year gala serves a purpose far beyond celebration. The funds raised during the event directly support MusiCares’ mission to provide critical resources to music professionals, including mental health services, medical care, financial assistance and emergency relief.

“Person of the Year is more than a tribute,” she added. “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 — helping them navigate unexpected challenges and build sustainable, fulfilling careers.”

A Night of Legacy, Community and Giving

Over the years, the MusiCares Person of the Year gala has become one of the most meaningful nights on the music industry calendar, blending high-profile performances with a powerful philanthropic mission. Honorees are selected not only for their artistic achievements, but for their commitment to supporting others and using their influence to make a difference.

For Carey, whose influence stretches across pop, R&B, hip-hop and beyond, the evening will serve as both a reflection on her extraordinary career and a celebration of the community that continues to draw inspiration from her work.

With a genre-spanning lineup, emotional tributes and a focus on giving back, this year’s gala promises to be more than a star-studded concert — it will be a night that underscores the enduring power of music to heal, connect and uplift.