Queen Latifah has consistently proven that she is a living legend, now she has been honored as such. The Kennedy Center recently honored the icon for lifetime achievements in arts and entertainment during the 46th annual Kennedy Center Honors.
She was joined by Barry Gibb, Renée Fleming, Billy Crystal, and Dionne Warwick as honorees of the night’s celebrations. The star-studded black-tie gala was broadcasted on CBS.
Queen Latifah was recognized as one of the premier female voices in hip hop.
“I’m humbled to be included in this incredible list of artists honored by the Kennedy Center. When we started on this journey decades ago, we were often told, ‘No. No, you won’t be able to leave New Jersey. No, if you rap you can’t sing.”
She continued, “No, singers can’t become actresses. No, actors can’t also produce,’” said the “U.N.I.T.Y.” she said in a statement. “To now be recognized amongst so many multi-hyphenates feels unbelievable, not for just me and my team, but for our community. The work the Kennedy Center does is immeasurable, so I’m beyond grateful for this recognition.”
Kennedy Center President, Deborah F. Rutter, shared her own statement.
“This year we pay special tribute to the 50th anniversary of hip hop, a uniquely American culture whose constant evolution is one of enduring relevance and impact, reflecting our society as it has grown into an international phenomenon. Hip hop has been an important, thriving art form here at the Center for a number of years; what a privilege it is to bestow an Honors to the First Lady of Hip Hop who has inspired us along the way,” the statement read.