U2 named MusiCares’ 2027 Persons of the Year

U2 will receive the MusiCares Persons of the Year award for 2027.

On Thursday, officials from the nonprofit organisation, which raises funds to support musicians in times of financial, personal, or medical crisis, announced that they will honour the Irish rock band at a benefit gala on 5 February 2027.

In response to the news, U2 – comprised of Bono, the Edge, Adam Clayton, and Larry Mullen Jr. – noted that they are “huge fans” of MusiCares in a heartfelt statement.

“We’ve been recording and touring for 50 years because of that pool, from producers and engineers to carpenters and riggers,” they 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.”

And Harvey Mason Jr., chief executive of the Recording Academy and MusiCares, emphasised that the With or Without You hitmakers were the perfect selection for the prestigious prize.

“We are honoured to celebrate and recognise U2 as this year’s MusiCares Persons of the Year,” he praised. “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.”

Previously, frontman Bono was honoured as the 2003 MusiCares Person of the Year for his impact through both music and activism.

Other artists to be feted over the years include Mariah Carey, Jon Bon Jovi, and Joni Mitchell, among many others.

The MusiCares’ 2027 Persons of the Year gala will be staged at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, two nights before the 2027 Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena.