MusiCares Chooses U2 As Its 2027 Persons Of The Year

U2 have been named the recipients of the 2027 MusiCares Persons of the Year honour.

The nonprofit announced on Thursday that the Irish band will be celebrated at a fundraising gala on 5 February 2027. MusiCares provides assistance to music professionals facing financial hardship, personal difficulties or medical emergencies.

Bono, the Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr. welcomed the announcement with a warm statement, describing themselves as "huge fans" of the organisation.

"We've been recording and touring for 50 years because of that pool, from producers and engineers to carpenters and riggers," the band said. "Persons of the Year couldn't be a better title, as it's the people we've been so fortunate to work with, and of course our indomitable audience, that have given us the opportunity to keep making music and keep rocking the boat on things we really care about. It's such an honour, and we're very excited to be in the front row of our first ever U2 gig... we know we're gonna be outplayed."

Harvey Mason Jr., chief executive of the Recording Academy and MusiCares, pointed to the With or Without You band’s musical influence and charitable efforts when explaining the choice.

"We are honoured to celebrate and recognise U2 as this year's MusiCares Persons of the Year," he said. "Their impact goes far beyond the stage. Not only has their music defined generations, but they've been equally exemplary in their dedication to humanitarian work and using their platform for good. We are so excited to come together to honour their collective artistry and commitment to giving back on this special night."

The recognition follows Bono’s individual MusiCares Person of the Year award in 2003, which celebrated his contributions to music and activism.

Mariah Carey, Jon Bon Jovi, and Joni Mitchell are also among the artists who have received the honour.

Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater will host the 2027 MusiCares Persons of the Year gala, with the 2027 Grammy Awards taking place two nights later at the Crypto.com Arena.