Stars set to perform at the 2026 MusiCares gala honoring Mariah Carey

The MusiCares gala

The 2026 MusiCares Person of the Year gala will honor Mariah Carey for her iconic music career and philanthropy. The annual benefit event supports MusiCares’ programs for music professionals facing hardship.

It is scheduled for January 30, 2026, in Los Angeles, just days before the Grammy Awards. The event traditionally attracts major artists from across genres. This year’s gala promises a powerful celebration of Carey’s influence.

Mariah Carey’s legacy and impact

Mariah Carey, a five-time GRAMMY Award winner and a 2024 Recording Academy Global Impact Award honoree, is being recognized for her musical achievements and charitable contributions. The honor highlights both her artistry and long-standing support of philanthropic causes.

Carey’s career spans more than three decades of chart-topping hits. She is one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Her influence continues to shape pop and R&B music globally.

Foo Fighters bring rock spirit

The Foo Fighters are set to perform, adding a strong rock presence to the tribute lineup. Known for their energetic live shows, the band represents a genre-crossing tribute to Carey.

Their involvement highlights her influence beyond pop music. Fans expect a creative reinterpretation of her catalog. Many outlets and fans are already predicting the band’s tribute will be among the most talked about moments of the evening.

Jennifer Hudson’s powerhouse presence

Grammy-winning singer Jennifer Hudson will honor Carey with a live performance. Hudson’s powerful vocals make her well-suited for delivering emotionally rich tributes.

She has frequently been praised for her stage presence and vocal strength. Her participation adds prestige to the event. Many anticipate a standout performance from her set.

John Legend offers soulful tribute

John Legend joins the gala lineup with his signature soulful sound. Known for heartfelt performances, Legend brings a refined musical approach to the tribute.

His presence underscores Carey’s impact on contemporary R&B and soul artists. Legend has collaborated with many legendary musicians. His performance is expected to resonate strongly with the audience.

Adam Lambert adds vocal flair

Singer Adam Lambert will bring theatrical energy and vocal range to the gala. Known for his versatility, Lambert bridges pop and rock styles seamlessly.

His performance is expected to bring drama and flair to the tribute. Lambert has been praised for bold live interpretations. His inclusion adds dynamic contrast to the lineup.

The lineup also includes Billy Porter, whose theatrical presence and Broadway background will add a dramatic, cabaret-inspired element to the tribute.

Charlie Puth brings pop sensibility

Pop star Charlie Puth is also confirmed to perform at the event. Known for his songwriting and production skills, Puth brings a modern pop perspective.

His musical style aligns well with Carey’s melodic influence. Fans are eager to hear his take on her classics. His performance reflects Carey’s impact on newer generations.

Kesha joins the tribute lineup

Singer Kesha will take the stage as part of the tribute performances. Her inclusion reflects Carey’s wide-ranging influence across pop music.

Kesha’s evolving artistry adds emotional depth to the lineup. She is known for delivering honest and powerful performances. Her tribute is expected to be both bold and meaningful.

Laufey’s jazz-inflected style

Rising artist Laufey brings a jazz-inspired sound to the gala. Her musical style adds a unique and refined element to the tribute. Laufey’s inclusion shows the genre diversity of the event.

She has gained recognition for blending classical and pop influences. Her performance may offer a fresh interpretation of Carey’s work.

Maggie Rogers brings indie pop sound

Maggie Rogers is set to perform with her signature indie-pop style. Her music blends folk, pop, and electronic influences.

Rogers represents a younger generation inspired by Carey’s legacy. Her participation adds contemporary depth to the event. Fans anticipate a heartfelt and creative performance.

Taylor Momsen adds rock contrast

Rock singer Taylor Momsen of The Pretty Reckless will also perform. Her heavier sound offers a sharp contrast to Carey’s pop and R&B roots.

Momsen’s presence highlights Carey’s reach across rock music as well. The performance may feature a bold reinterpretation of Carey’s songs. This adds further diversity to the gala’s lineup.

Teddy Swims’ soulful energy

Singer Teddy Swims will contribute his soulful voice to the tribute. Known for blending soul, R&B, and pop, his style aligns with Carey’s emotional depth.

His performance is expected to be heartfelt and expressive. Swims has gained a strong following for his vocal authenticity. He is likely to deliver one of the evening’s most soulful moments.

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Special DJ set opens evening

The evening will open with a special curated DJ set by Jermaine Dupri, a longtime Mariah Carey collaborator, who produced several of her hits and will set the celebratory tone for the night.

His role adds a personal connection to the tribute. The DJ set will set the celebratory tone for the night. It reinforces Carey’s lasting impact on modern pop and R&B production.

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Which performer are you most excited to see honor Mariah Carey at the MusiCares gala, and which of her songs do you hope they perform? Tell us in the comments.

This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.

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