Mariah Carey Discusses Philanthropy, Longevity, and Rejecting the ‘Legend’ Label
Mariah Carey, an iconic figure in the music industry for nearly four decades, continues to focus on giving back through her philanthropic efforts while maintaining her impressive career. Now 56, she emphasizes the importance of love, healing, and upliftment in her music and initiatives.
Commitment to Philanthropy
Carey’s philanthropic journey includes significant contributions to various causes. Her commitment will be recognized on January 30, 2026, when she is honored as the MusiCares Person of the Year. Previous honorees include notable figures such as Dolly Parton and Joni Mitchell.
MusiCares executive director, Theresa Wolters, highlighted Carey’s extensive support for communities through disaster relief, empowerment programs, and initiatives addressing barriers to opportunities. “Her work exemplifies the values at the heart of MusiCares,” she stated.
Notable Contributions
- Disaster relief efforts for Hurricane Katrina and COVID-19.
- Support for HIV/AIDS, education, and human rights.
- Co-founded Camp Mariah with the Fresh Air Fund, providing opportunities to underserved youth.
Camp Mariah and Beyond
Carey’s first charitable project, Camp Mariah, introduced in 1994, remains central to her philanthropic work. The camp offers children aged 12 to 15 an interactive experience, blending outdoor activities with career exploration. Many campers have never ventured beyond their local communities, making this initiative crucial for their development.
In collaboration with GLAAD, Carey recently auctioned a jacket she wore to benefit the trans community, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to social issues.
Musical Legacy and Achievements
Carey’s career is marked by significant milestones, such as her self-titled debut album in 1990, which featured four No. 1 singles. She holds a remarkable total of 19 No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including classics like “Hero” and “We Belong Together.” Her latest album, “Here for It All,” released in September 2025, has further expanded her legacy.
Recent Records
In a noteworthy accomplishment, “All I Want for Christmas Is You” achieved its 20th week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, surpassing previous records held by other artists.
Future Projects
Carey is poised to make extensive contributions to both the music industry and charity in the coming years. She will perform alongside Andrea Bocelli at the opening ceremony of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics on February 6, a significant global event for her career. Additionally, she plans to work on a documentary and a biopic based on her memoir, “The Meaning of Mariah Carey.”
Although she is often referred to as a legend, Carey humbly reflects on her journey, stating, “I’m just still working, still trying hard.” Her commitment to philanthropy, alongside her continued musical endeavors, showcases her multifaceted impact on both the industry and the world.
