Mariah Carey’s MusiCares Tribute Lineup Includes Foo Fighters, Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, Laufey, Adam Lambert and More

The MusiCares Person of the Year gala has revealed its first slate of performers set to honor the legendary Mariah Carey on January 30. The benefit concert will feature a wide spectrum of artists putting their own spin on Carey's iconic songbook. Alongside anticipated R&B and pop stars such as John Legend and Jennifer Hudson, the lineup includes the notable rock group Foo Fighters, adding an unexpected edge to the tribute.

Further rounding out the announced roster are Teddy Swims, Adam Lambert, jazz-influenced singer Laufey, Maggie Rogers, Charlie Puth, Kesha, Taylor Momsen, and Billy Porter. A special DJ set will be provided by producer Jermaine Dupri, with more performers to be confirmed. The musical direction for the evening will be handled by Daniel Moore II, while veteran television producers Joe Lewis and R.A. Clark—known professionally as Lewis & Clark—will oversee event production. The gala is a key fundraiser for MusiCares, the charitable arm of the Recording Academy, which provides a critical safety net for music people by offering confidential health, financial, and rehabilitation services.

In a statement, Carey expressed her gratitude for the honor. "I am profoundly touched that so many talented artists are coming together for this night," she said. "Their support means the world, and celebrating while also aiding the essential work of MusiCares gives the event a deeper purpose. Music is a healing force meant for sharing." This accolade places her among past recipients like Bruce Springsteen, Dolly Parton, and Fleetwood Mac. Carey's selection acknowledges her unparalleled five-decade career, marked not only by her record 19 Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles but also by her influential role as a songwriter and producer who helped define modern pop and R&B.

Scheduled for January 30 at the Los Angeles Convention Center—just two days before the Grammy Awards—the gala will follow its customary format. The night will commence with a cocktail reception and live auction, followed by a dinner and the main event: a star-studded musical tribute in the grand ballroom. Tables and individual tickets are currently available for purchase through the official MusiCares website.

Theresa Wolters, Executive Director of MusiCares, highlighted the event's dual focus on artistry and philanthropy. "Witnessing these incredible artists reinterpret Mariah's timeless work will be a powerful reflection of her legacy," Wolters noted. She stressed the gala's fundamental role in fundraising, stating, "The proceeds directly fuel our programs, allowing us to safeguard the health and careers of the individuals who make the music industry run." This transforms an evening of celebration into a vital support system. As music industry analyst David Kroll observed, "Galas like this perform an essential function, leveraging star power to generate resources for the often-invisible workforce—from session players to road crew—whose well-being is foundational to the business."