Mariah Carey has made no secret about her complicated history with the Recording Academy (the organization that distributes the GRAMMYs), but they could soon be on the road to repairing their relationship as Tuesday (October 21) brought with it news they’re gearing up to honor the Songbird Supreme in 2026.

Person of the Year, an annual gala presented by MusiCares (a public charity and affiliate of The Recording Academy, has taken to press to announce Carey will be the honor’s 2026 recipient.

Awarded during “Grammy Week” (January 26-31), Mariah is expected to not only be bestowed the coveted trophy but also receive a star-studded tribute from performers yet to be announced.

“Mariah Carey’s influence extends far beyond her remarkable artistry,” said MusiCares Executive Director Theresa Wolters in an official press statement. “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 sentiment was echoed by The Recording Academy and MusiCares CEO Harvey Mason Jr.

“We are honored to recognize Mariah Carey as this year’s MusiCares Person of the Year, a true creative force and once-in-a-generation talent,” he stated. “Her artistry and her voice have helped shape the sound of our times. We look forward to celebrating her remarkable career on this very special night.”

Joining an illustrious class of honorees including past recipients Aretha Franklin, Natalie Cole, Barbra Streisand, Joni Mitchell, and more, Mimi – at 56-years-young – will uniquely be the youngest woman to receive the award this century.

Queen of Latin Pop Gloria Estefan, who snagged the trophy in 1994 when she was 37-years-old, remains the youngest in the ceremony’s overall history to receive the honor.

The 35th annual Person of the Year benefit gala is slated to be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center on Friday (January 30) ahead of the 2026 Grammy Awards at Crypto.com Arena on Sunday (February 1).

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