Art & Style
(PHOTOS) Missy Elliott, Jamie Foxx, Chance the Rapper Honored; Lil Kim, Ne-Yo and More Pay Homage to Legends at Urban One Honors
Several stars, activists and executives were recently recognized for their contributions during the televised Urban One Honors, which also paid tribute to the 40-year history of Radio One and its founder, Cathy Hughes.
Held at the MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland, the annual awards show was hosted by Chris Tucker and featured a mixed of special appearance by many celebrities, moving tribute speeches and surprise performances, including a set by songstress Anita Baker, who serenaded Cathy Hughes by singing her hit “Giving You the Best That I Got,” for which she was joined on stage by Lalah Hathaway, Billy Porter, and Jamie Foxx.
Each year Urban One honors recognizes the accomplishments of individuals who have made “extraordinary contributions in entertainment, media, music, fashion, sports, education, and the community.”
This year’s honorees included veteran music executive Sylvia Rhone (Lifetime Achievement Honor); Missy Elliott (Music Innovation Honor); Chance the Rapper (Represent Change Honor); Ryan Jamaal Swain (Represent Pride Honor) and Jamie Foxx (Entertainment Icon Honor), who accepted the honor with a wide-ranging speech where he shared intimate stories about his journey, as well as some hilarious impersonations.
Urban One Honors provided special recognition to music executive legend Clarence Avant (Represent Opportunity), Rev. Al Sharpton (Represent Leadership), Billy Porter (Represent Excellence).
A number of celebrities made appearances at the event as well, including Ray J, Brandy, Da Brat, and Lil Kim, who was helped present honor to her friend and collaborator Missy Elliott.
Urban One Honors aired on 1/20 on TV. Check listings for replay times.
See photos from the event below:
(Photos courtesy of Urban One Inc.)