When it comes to music, Black people have always been innovators in every genre. After all... we are the standard! The Black Music Honors recognizes cultural impact and is committed to "celebrating legendary artists and institutions who have made a significant contribution to African American Music."
Black Excellence walked the blue carpet at this year’s 8th Annual Black Music Honors for a celebration of their peers that have made an impactful mark on music history. This year's honorees included iconic girl group SWV, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Missy Elliot, Legendary Singer and Songwriter Jeffery Osborne, Disco Diva Evelyn "Champagne" King, and Gospel Powerhouse The Hawkins Family.
W4TC had the honor of speaking with Nicole "Lady Wray" who is known for her 1998 hit "Make it Hot." Lady Wray was there to honor Missy Elliot who played a significant role in her early career. Lady Wray let us know why Missy is so important to the culture stating, "Missy is genius. She's brilliant. She got the juice, and we wouldn't be here without her." Wray also went on to say, "it's special that we're all here... giving our flowers to one another while we're all here." Watch here.
We were also able to catch up with Singer and Songwriter Tanya Nolan to get her thoughts on why it's important for us to have platforms like the Black Music Honors; Tanya said, "Because it's us and were deserving of it period!" Tanya was excited to see Missy Elliot, one of this year's honorees, and Raheem Devaughn whom accompanies her on a new single titled "Pace Yourself" streaming on all platforms.
With so many women honored this year, the Singer, Songwriter, Producer and self-proclaimed King of R&B, Jacquees, made sure he left us with a message for women for the culture; we are appreciated. He said, "Women I love y'all. Y'all make me. I'm nothing without y'all. I really appreciate y'all."
The Black Music Honors will aired June 3 on the Stellar Network and is scheduled for Bounce TV on Juneteenth (June 19). Tune in to see performances from Lil Mo, Tweet, Latocha Scott, The Shindellas, and more!
For more behind the scenes footage of the Blue Carpet, follow W4TC on YouTube!
Check out the blue carpet photo gallery provided by Black Music Honors below!
