Mariah Carey Honored as MusiCares' Person of the Year: Foo Fighters, Jennifer Hudson, and More Pay Tribute

With 19 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 across four decades and nine more top 10s, the task of covering Mariah Carey's extensive catalog seemed daunting. However, performers rose to the occasion Friday night (Jan. 30) as she was honored as MusiCares’ Person of the Year in Los Angeles.
Mariah Carey

Tackling songs by one of pop's greatest vocalists is no easy feat, especially with the artist herself in the audience. The performers generally fell into three categories: Belters, Devotees, and Innovators.

Jennifer Hudson opened the show with a medley of Carey’s hits, including “Vision of Love” and “Make It Happen,” showcasing her powerful vocals. This set a high bar for the evening.

Also in the 'Belter' category were Kesha, with a spirited rendition of “Obsessed,” Adam Lambert, who delivered an expressive take on “Can’t Let Go,” and Teddy Swims, who powerfully performed Harry Nilsson’s “Without You,” a rare Carey cover.

The 'Devotees' offered reverential homages, with Charlie Puth’s emotional “I Still Believe,” John Legend’s piano-driven “Hero,” and FLO’s gorgeous rendition of “Dreamlover.”

The 'Innovators' were led by the Foo Fighters, featuring Taylor Momsen of The Pretty Reckless on vocals. They delivered electrifying versions of “Hermit” and “Love Is a Scam” from Carey’s 1995 grunge album, Someone’s Ugly Daughter (recorded under the name Chick). Guitarist Pat Smear, despite a broken foot, joined the band, showcasing his Carey fandom.

Maggie Rogers offered a unique take on “Honey,” starting with a slow groove before building up the energy. Billy Porter, a style icon for the night, freestyled through “Always Be My Baby,” while Icelandic artist Laufey presented a jazzy rendition of “It’s Like That.”

Instead of a single host, various artists introduced the performers. Some felt it a missed opportunity that top-tier acts like Stevie Wonder, Babyface, Richard Marx, and SZA only spoke instead of performing.

Universal Music Publishing Group chairman/CEO Jody Gerson introduced Carey, praising her songcraft and influence on modern pop vocals. She highlighted Carey's structurally sophisticated songs and her blending of pop, R&B, gospel, and hip-hop.

Carey, joining past honorees like Bob Dylan, Barbra Streisand, Bruce Springsteen, and Dolly Parton, expressed feeling “overwhelmed” and blessed to be surrounded by familiar faces.

Carey was also recognized for her philanthropy, supporting charities related to disaster relief, HIV/AIDS education, and Make-A-Wish, as well as founding Camp Mariah in conjunction with the Fresh Air Fund.

She emphasized the importance of supporting MusiCares, the Recording Academy’s philanthropic arm, which aids those in the music community. She closed by reminding everyone that the organization thrives because of generosity.

The evening concluded with Jon Batiste leading performers like Kesha, Puth, Porter, FLO, Rita Wilson, and Gayle King in a spirited rendition of “All I Want For Christmas Is You,” complete with a snowy backdrop. Carey joined the carolers for the finale.

Mariah Carey’s MusiCares setlist:

Medley featuring “I Don’t Want to Cry,” “My All,” “Vision of Love” and “Make It Happen” (Jennifer Hudson)

“Hermit” and “Love Is a Scam” (Foo Fighters and Taylor Momsen)

“I Still Believe” (Charlie Puth)

“Obsessed” (Kesha)

“Hero” (John Legend)

“It’s Like That” (Laufey)

“Can’t Let Go” (Adam Lambert)

“Honey” (Maggie Rogers)

“I Know What You Want” (Busta Rhymes, Chante Moore, Spliff Star)

“Always Be My Baby” (Billy Porter)

“Dreamlover” (Flow)

“Without You” (Teddy Swims)

“All I Want For Christmas Is You” (Jon Batiste and ensemble)

Billboard VIP Pass

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