The Queen of Funk is getting her flowers in 2026.
The Award
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Chaka Khan will be honored with the Luminary Award at the 2026 Resonator Awards. Khan is being recognized as “a creator whose profound impact has transcended the confines of the music realm to significantly change culture.”
“Empowered women empower women,” Khan said in a statement. “I am honored to be part of a movement that celebrates the creativity, resilience, and determination of women creators everywhere. We lift each other and shine. Together, we are moving the needle.”
Presented by Sia, Khan’s Luminary Award moment will headline an evening that also honors innovators. This list includes St. Vincent, HAIM, Amy Allen, Gena Johnson, Jayda Love, Alissia, Bella Blasko and Roselilah. Rising hit-making duo Elvira Anderfjärd and Luka Kloser will be honored as well.
The evening’s honorees will be presented with awards by their collaborators and friends, including the likes of Tony Berg, Sia, Rostam, Olivia Rodrigo, Laufey, Jason Isbell, Anderson .Paak, Addison Rae, Aaron Dessner and more.
Khan is also set to receive Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Special Merit Awards.
The Resonator Awards were founded by Grammy-winning mastering engineer Emily Lazar through her nonprofit We Are Moving The Needle.
“We Are Moving The Needle is about strengthening the music industry so creators can thrive on their own terms,” Lazar says in a statement. “The Resonator Awards are a reflection of that mission—honoring not only remarkable artistry, but the shared commitment to building an industry that lives up to its values.”
The evening will feature live performances, a seated dinner, red carpet interviews, and surprise moments. The star-studded show will raise funds to support scholarships, mentorship, and advocacy programs for underrepresented creators.