In a dynamic celebration held in Los Angeles, Mariah Carey was honored as the MusiCares Person of the Year, recognizing both her musical achievements across several decades and her impactful charitable contributions. The event took place two days prior to the Grammy Awards and featured a diverse array of performances interpreting Carey’s extensive catalogue, reflecting the breadth of genres she has masterfully navigated throughout her career.
Significantly capturing the evening’s attention was a performance by the Foo Fighters, who delivered renditions from Carey’s lesser-known 1990s grunge album project "Someone’s Ugly Daughter." This album, officially under the band name Chick, originated as a secret collaboration with her friend Clarissa Dane, with Carey providing backing vocals. The Foo Fighters energized the audience with their version of "Someone’s Ugly Daughter," led by Taylor Momsen’s vocals, followed by "Love is a Scam," where Carey was visibly engaged, singing along from her seat near the stage.
The honor acknowledged Carey’s songwriting prowess as much as her vocal talent. Esteemed collaborator Babyface emphasized her status as an exemplary songwriter, describing her as the "blueprint of a great songwriter" due to her consistent success in crafting gold-standard music.
Besides the grunge tribute, the night showcased a variety of artists spanning different musical styles paying homage to Carey’s hits. Grammy nominee Teddy Swims took on the challenging "Without You," originally brought to the top of the charts by Carey in 1994. British band Flo harmonized on "Dream Lover," while the distinctive voices of Billy Porter and Jennifer Hudson reinterpreted "Always Be My Baby" and a medley of "I Don’t Wanna Cry" and "Vision of Love," respectively. Hip-hop artist Busta Rhymes, alongside Chanté Moore and Spliff Star, performed "I Know What You Want," adding to the event’s stylistic diversity.
Meanwhile, John Legend provided a contemplative moment at the piano with "Hero," following Charlie Puth’s performance of "I Still Believe." Other notable performances included Grammy nominee Laufey’s "It’s Like That," and Adam Lambert donning a lavender jacket as he sang "Can’t Let Go," a nod to Carey's favorite color. Kesha presented "Obsessed" behind sunglasses, and Maggie Rogers delivered a compelling rendition of "Honey," expressing her admiration by telling Carey she was "the coolest."
The event’s aesthetic paid homage to Carey’s 1997 album "Butterfly," with lavender rose centerpieces adorned with metallic butterflies, and intricately shaped pats of butter crafted in butterfly forms. Despite being the evening’s honoree, Carey mainly sang along from her table throughout the evening, adorned with dazzling diamond jewelry. The concert, typically lasting around three hours for the honored artist to perform their greatest hits, concluded just under two hours this year with a festive finale led by Jon Batiste involving several performers in "All I Want for Christmas Is You." Carey joined in on stage, singing along briefly and sharing the moment with the audience.
Reports suggested Carey might be conserving her vocal power for upcoming major performances, including an appearance at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremony and a subsequent show in Abu Dhabi.
True to her celebrated status, Carey was escorted to the podium with a graceful presence, her gown featuring a long black lace train. Expressing heartfelt gratitude, she remarked on the surreal feeling of hearing her compositions reimagined by renowned artists, reflecting on her early days as a songwriter dreaming of such recognition. She described the occasion as one of the most profound in her professional journey.
The MusiCares Person of the Year award has honored legendary artists in the past, highlighting Carey’s inclusion among an elite roster. Following the tribute, the 68th Annual Grammy Awards were scheduled to take place, with broadcast options including CBS and streaming on Paramount+.