Mariah Carey recently shared why she doesn’t call herself a “legend.”
In a new Billboard cover story, Carey reflected on her iconic career, and she refused to use the moniker.
“Everybody has their own little meanings for what things they say,” Carey explained. “But I don’t call myself a legend. I’m just still working, still trying hard.”
MusiCares, the Recording Academy’s philanthropic organization, will honor Carey as its 2026 Person of the Year in a ceremony on Jan. 30. Previous honorees include Berry Gordy and Smokey Robinson, Joni Mitchell, Gloria Estefan, Billy Joel, and Dolly Parton.
Theresa Wolters, executive director of MusiCares, lauded Carey in a statement.
“Mariah Carey’s influence extends far beyond her remarkable artistry,” said Wolters. “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.”
Wolters added, “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.”
Carye shared the importance of philanthropy and why she’s committed to giving back.
“All of us should do what we can to give back something,” she said. “And it’s also important to do more than that. I get caught up with my schedule sometimes, so it’s not as much as it should be. But it’s still an important part of my life.”
“I’ve always tried to incorporate messages into my songs like ‘Make It Happen’ and ‘Hero,’ ” she continued.. “It’s just an interesting thing to be able to give back in that way. I didn’t grow up with money. And if you grew up like me, it means even more to be able to give back.”