In 1989, the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences
established the MusiCares foundation to provide emergency financial
assistance to musicians who are in need. The foundation provides a
way for musicians to help others in the music community who may
need help with addiction recovery, senior housing, medical and
other personal issues.
Each year, MusiCares hosts a gala fundraising dinner to honor an
outstanding musician who has shown a particular dedication to
environmental and humanitarian issues. Some of the artists who have
been chosen as MusiCares Person of the Year are Aretha Franklin,
Don Henley, James Taylor, Brian Wilson, Sting and Bono.