R&B crooner John Legend and the infamous Roots Band lead the pack of winners at the 42nd Annual NAACP Image Awards which went down last night (Feb 4.) in Los Angeles, California. They won two awards for their collaborative album WAKE UP!, including âOutstanding Duo, Group or Collaborationâ and the other for âOutstanding Album.â
Newcomer Willow Smith took home the âOutstanding New Artistâ trophy, beating out artists like B.o.B, Bruno Mars, Jason Derulo and Nicki Minaj. She was also nominated for Outstanding Music Video, which was snagged by Alicia Keys.
Usher, who recently said he would donate all monies earned from an appearance linked to Gadhafi, won Outstanding Male Artist, beating rivals Kanye, Cee-Lo Green, Jay-Z and Ne-Yo. Hip Hop Soul Queen Mary J. Blige won Outstanding Female Artist over Chrisette Michele, Corinne Bailey Rae, Rihanna and Sade, while Fantasia won the award for Best Song.
In related news, the NAACP Image Awards took some heat this year for honoring Jay-Z, Minaj, P. Diddy, Kanye and other artists who often use offensive lyrics and derogatory images.
“It is unconscionable that the NAACP would sully its brand, squander its legacy, and take such a stand contrary to the aspirations and dreams of the mainstream of the African-American community,” said Reverend Delman Coates, senior pastor of the Mt. Ennon Baptist Church.
“While artists are free to produce their own art, it is not acceptable for public corporations and established civil right organizations to sanction the kinds of lyrics promoted by some of these artists,” he continued. “These are the wrong images for a civil rights organization to nominate and endorse.”
In response, the organization promised to review the complaints to see if they are valid. “I think the national office is going to review the policy of the nominees and the participants,” said NACCP President Joe Brown. “Hopefully this will eliminate inviting those whose lyrics are considered disdainful.”
2011 NAACP Image Awards Music Winners List:
⢠Outstanding New Artist: Willow Smith
⢠Outstanding Male Artist: Usher
⢠Outstanding Female Artist: Mary J. Blige
⢠Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration: John Legend and The Roots
⢠Outstanding Jazz Album: “From Billie Holiday to Edith Piaf – Live in Marciac” – The Wynton Marsalis Quintet and Richard Galliano
⢠Outstanding Gospel Album (Traditional or Contemporary): “You Are Not Alone” – Mavis Staples
⢠Outstanding World Music Album: “VOCAbuLarieS” – Bobby McFerrin
⢠Outstanding Music Video: “Un-thinkable (I’m Ready)” – Alicia Keys
⢠Outstanding Song: “Bittersweet” – Fantasia Barrino
⢠Outstanding Album: “Wake Up!” – John Legend and The Roots
The NAACP Awards for 2020 have been announced and the list of winners is stunning! John Legend, Willow Smith, Usher, and many others are among those who were recognized this year. These individuals have made an impressive impact on the world with their music, artistry, activism and philanthropy. This article will delve into all that these award winners achieved in 2020 to earn such prestigious honors from the NAACP.
At the top of the list is John Legend’s win for Entertainer of the Year. In addition to his success as a musician and songwriter, he has become well-known for his work in criminal justice reform through his #FREEAMERICA campaign. Not far behind him is Willow Smith earning her first ever Image Award nomination at just 19 years old. She’s already making a difference by speaking out about gender equality and racial injustice using her platform as an artist and actress.
Rounding off the list of notable wins is Usher receiving the President’s Award which recognizes extraordinary achievement in social justice initiatives along with significant service to African Americans or other communities affected by discrimination or poverty. As one of pop culture’s most renowned stars, Usher continues to use his influence to make positive changes throughout society—a trait worthy of recognition from the NAACP.
Overview Of Naacp Award Winners
The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) awards recognize individuals and organizations that promote justice, equality, and civil rights. This year’s winners included a diverse array of inspiring figures who have made meaningful change within their communities. John Legend was honored with the President’s Award for his ongoing dedication to criminal justice reform, while Willow Smith received the Youth Change Maker award for her activism in support of mental health awareness. Meanwhile, Usher was presented with the Hall of Fame Award in recognition of his work on behalf of young people across America.
These impressive recipients are part of a larger legacy of social progress that is continuing to shape our world today. The NAACP has been at the forefront of this movement since its founding over 109 years ago – working tirelessly to protect civil liberties and ensure equal opportunity for all citizens regardless of race or creed. As we celebrate these remarkable achievements during this virtual ceremony, it is important to remember how far we have come – and look forward to a brighter tomorrow together as one nation united under common values.
Accomplishments Of John Legend, Willow Smith And Usher
John Legend, Willow Smith and Usher are three shining examples of those who have made positive contributions to our society. Each has achieved success in their respective fields while also working tirelessly to advocate for social justice and equality.
John Legend is a celebrated musician, actor and philanthropist. He co-founded the Show Me Campaign which works to reduce mass incarceration in America, as well as his own criminal justice reform organization FreeAmerica that advocates for policy change. His efforts towards creating a more just system have been widely applauded.
Willow Smith is an accomplished singer-songwriter, actress and mental health activist whose work focuses on destigmatizing mental health issues and providing support for young people with her platform Hey You X. She was recently honored by Time Magazine’s 100 Next list for her remarkable achievements at such a young age.
Usher has used his celebrity status to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals through his foundation New Look which provides mentoring programs to help disadvantaged youth reach their full potential. In addition, he has long supported causes related to civil rights and education reform across the country. These impacts will continue to shape future generations for years to come.
It’s clear these winners embody all that NAACP stands for – respect, courage and purposeful action – making them invaluable role models during this time of immense social challenges we face today. It’s inspiring to see how they use their platforms to empower others and spark meaningful change within our communities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s clear that John Legend, Willow Smith and Usher are true champions in their respective fields. Their accomplishments have earned them the recognition of being honored by the NAACP at this year’s award ceremony.
John has been a vocal advocate for racial justice with his work through The Show Me Campaign, while Willow has encouraged young people to empower themselves through her music. Meanwhile, Usher has provided educational opportunities for underserved youth around the world.
Their achievements speak volumes about their dedication to creating positive change and inspiring others to do the same. It’s safe to say that these three have made an indelible mark on society and will continue to be celebrated as icons for generations to come.
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