The Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) celebrated a constellation of influential figures in music and entertainment at its sixth annual gala, a vibrant fundraiser held at the prestigious Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills. The event, presented by Live Nation, honored industry titans such as Interscope Geffen A&M President of Urban A&R Nicole Wyskoarko, legendary artist Patti LaBelle, and pioneering hip-hop group Public Enemy, underscoring their profound impact and ongoing contributions to Black music and culture.
Under the overarching themes of pride, perseverance, and purpose, the gala served as both a celebration of achievement and a call to action. Hosted by veteran radio personality and entrepreneur Kenny Burns, the evening brought together artists, executives, and advocates committed to advancing equity and justice within the music industry. BMAC co-founder and president/CEO Willie "Prophet" Stiggers set a powerful tone in his opening remarks, emphasizing the critical juncture at which the gathering occurred.
"Tonight is bigger than a gala, we’re gathering at a moment when too much is at stake for us to simply celebrate and go home," Stiggers declared, highlighting the organization’s mission beyond mere recognition. He eloquently articulated the historical significance of Black music, stating, "Black music has always been more than music. It has been how we told our story when others tried to write it for us, how we held onto our humanity when this country tried to deny it. We have turned pain into purpose, struggle into sounds and survival into something the entire world would eventually call culture."
The evening’s program was rich with poignant award presentations, each recognizing individuals and groups who have shaped the landscape of Black music. Among the distinguished honorees was Nicole Wyskoarko, who received the BMAC Sylvia Rhone Visionary Award. Presented by pioneering music industry executive Sylvia Rhone herself, this award acknowledged Wyskoarko’s significant role in shaping urban music at Interscope.
Hip-hop luminary Common was honored with the BMAC Harry Belafonte Change Agent Award. The award was presented by his mother, Dr. Mahlia Hines, adding a deeply personal touch to the recognition of his activism and artistic contributions. Common, in his acceptance speech, reflected on the enduring legacy of Harry Belafonte, drawing inspiration from the iconic artist’s dedication to social justice. "He showed me that having a rebellious heart to speak up, to stand up… and putting yourself in harm’s way to stand up for millions before you is God at work," Common shared, underscoring the responsibility that comes with influence.
The iconic Patti LaBelle was bestowed with the BMAC Icon Award, a testament to her unparalleled career and lasting influence on generations of music lovers. Her recognition was further amplified by two special surprises: a plaque from the RIAA and BMAC celebrating her legendary career, and a heartfelt musical tribute. Artists Chanté Moore and Le’Andria Johnson captivated the audience with renditions of LaBelle’s timeless hits, including "The Best Is Yet to Come," "You Are My Friend," and "Love, Need and Want You."
Public Enemy, a group synonymous with social commentary and political consciousness in hip-hop, received the BMAC Social Impact Award. The award was presented by fellow hip-hop pioneer Big Daddy Kane. Chuck D and Flavor Flav of Public Enemy were met with a thunderous standing ovation. Before leading the crowd in an energizing "Fight the Power" chant, Chuck D articulated the core of BMAC’s mission: "Action means do something, coalition means we’re all together. There’s no ‘I’ or ‘little you,’ We turn ‘me’ into ‘we,’ and that’s what it’s all about."
EMPIRE president Tina Davis was recognized with the BMAC Clarence Avant Trailblazer Award, presented by singer Montell Jordan. This award celebrated Davis’s pioneering spirit and significant achievements in the music business, following in the footsteps of the legendary Clarence Avant.
Further acknowledging significant contributions, the BMAC Founders Award was presented to Kevin Shivers, Lee Anderson, Mallory Smith, and Marty Diamond of THE·TEAM by Jamea Kollie, a participant in the BMAC Music Accelerator Program at Tennessee State University. Additionally, the BMAC 365 Award honored Arielle Vavasseur, Dylan Siegler, Kristin Jones, Markie Ruzzo, Sharlotte Ritchie, and Susan Mazo of Universal Music Group’s Global Impact Team, presented by Stiggers and the emerging artist group FLO.
The gala’s success was amplified by the presence of key BMAC board members, including Ashaunna K. Ayars, Caron Veazey, Damien Smith, Naima Cochrane, Shawn Holiday, and Shay M. Lawson, who joined Stiggers in welcoming guests. The event was a powerful demonstration of unity and commitment to the principles of equality and opportunity within the music ecosystem.
Proceeds from the BMAC Gala are earmarked for various vital initiatives and programs aimed at empowering Black artists and professionals. These include the BMAC x America250 initiative, Music Maker grants, Music Accelerator programs, BMAC Live, the BMAC Live R&B Tour Edition in collaboration with Live Nation, and the BMAC Restore & Rebuild LA Program. These efforts underscore BMAC’s dedication to fostering a more inclusive and equitable future for Black music.
The gala’s momentum extended beyond the main event. The evening prior, BMAC and WME co-hosted the BMAC x America250 Voice of Tomorrow celebration. This event focused on spotlighting the next generation of Black artists, featuring a panel discussion and performances by BMAC Voices of Tomorrow artists DJ Stussy, The Reasn, and RAHBI, alongside Anzie Blue recording artist Pynk Beard. This forward-looking event demonstrated BMAC’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and ensuring the continued vibrancy and innovation within Black music.
The Black Music Action Coalition continues to be a driving force in advocating for social justice and racial equity within the music industry. Through events like the annual gala, the organization not only celebrates the achievements of Black artists and executives but also mobilizes resources and support for critical programs that address systemic inequalities and foster growth and opportunity for all. The honorees, from established legends to rising executives, represent the diverse talent and unwavering spirit that define Black music’s enduring legacy and its promising future.
