Usher is set to be honored with the prestigious President’s Award during the 55th annual NAACP Image Awards ceremony, which will take place at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. This award, established in 1987, recognizes individuals for their outstanding achievements and notable contributions to society. Previous recipients include luminaries such as Lauryn Hill, JAY-Z, and Rihanna.
Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP, expressed the organization’s admiration for Usher’s multifaceted talents and his unwavering commitment to community advocacy. He highlighted Usher’s efforts in empowering under-resourced youth through initiatives like college readiness programs and financial literacy, which have positively impacted countless lives. Johnson stated, “We are honored to present this year’s President’s Award to Usher for his unparalleled talent and remarkable contributions as an artist and advocate for our community.”
Usher’s philanthropic endeavors extend beyond his musical career. As the founding chairman of Usher’s New Look, he has provided mentorship and educational opportunities to over 55,000 young people worldwide. His dedication to social activism earned him prestigious accolades, including the NAACP’s 2010 Ford Freedom Award Scholar and Morehouse College’s 2014 Candle Award.
In addition to receiving the President’s Award, Usher has already secured two NAACP Image Awards for outstanding male artist and outstanding soul/R&B song. His latest album, “Coming Home,” debuted to critical acclaim, marking his transition to an independent artist. With eight Grammy Awards and numerous chart-topping hits under his belt, Usher continues to redefine the boundaries of creativity and compassion in the entertainment industry.
Scott Mills, President and CEO of BET, commended Usher’s enduring impact on the music industry and his role as a beacon for social change. Mills stated, “Usher stands as a distinguished multihyphenate performer, consistently setting new standards for Black Excellence. It is a profound honor to recognize his extraordinary impact and lasting legacy.”
The 2024 NAACP Image Awards ceremony, hosted by Queen Latifah, promises an evening of celebration and recognition. Andra Day is slated to deliver a captivating performance, while esteemed presenters like Donnie Wahlberg, Idris Elba, and Kerry Washington will grace the stage. Poet laureate Amanda Gorman and R&B supergroup New Edition will also be honored during the event.
For the first time, the NAACP and BET are expanding accessibility by providing audio descriptions for blind and visually impaired viewers during the live telecast. Additionally, the red carpet event will be livestreamed on the SPILL app, offering viewers an exclusive glimpse into the glamorous affair.
Tune in to the 55th NAACP Image Awards live on BET, BET Her, and VH1 at 7 p.m. ET to witness Usher’s well-deserved recognition and celebrate the achievements of the black community in entertainment and beyond.