Usher was named Entertainer of the Year at the 55th Annual NAACP Awards on Saturday night (March 16), which highlighted work by entertainers and writers of color.
After Usher accepted his award at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, the superstar R&B singer spoke about his gratitude for the journey of his successful career that has spanned three decades.
He went over many of his recent big moments, including his sold-out Las Vegas residency, his wedding and the release of his ninth studio album I'm coming home and his Super Bowl halftime performance, which became the most popular in the history of the game.
Usher beat Colman Domingo, Fantasia Barrino, Halle Bailey and Keke Palmer.
“I don't know how many people do so many things on one stage,” said the multi-Grammy winner, who was presented with the award by Oprah Winfrey. After being surprised by Winfrey's presence, he thanked those who have supported him over the years.
“This is for you, you, my firsts,” the singer said as the audience echoed his words. The last words of his speech were recited lyrics from his popular song “Superstar” from his album 2024 Confessionswhich has sold more than 10 million units in the US
Earlier in the ceremony, Usher was honored with the President's Award for the singer's achievements in public service through his New Look Foundation. He thanked the strong women in his life, including his mother and wife Jenn Goicoechea, whom he married after last month's Super Bowl halftime performance.
“To say behind or beside or with any strong man is a stronger woman,” she said.
Queen Latifah hosted the award ceremony which aired live on BET.
The Color Purple was awarded as best film. The musical featured an all-star cast including Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Domingo, HER, Danielle Brooks, Corey Hawkins and Bailey.
Barrino, who starred as Celie in the film, won best actress in a motion picture.
“I didn't prepare a speech because I didn't think I would win,” the singer-actor said. “I was scared to play Celie, but I'm glad I did. Because I kept saying “If I don't win an award, the awards I win will come from the people who watched Color Purple and the women who will relate to her and feel like Oscar when they leave.”
New Edition has been inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame. The induction is awarded to individuals who are considered pioneers in their respective fields and whose influence has shaped their profession.
“We stand here brotherly,” Michael Bivins said as his team members stood behind him. The Grammy-nominated group includes Bobby Brown, Johnny Gill, Ralph Tresvant, Ronnie DeVoe and Ricky Bell.
“You have seen our story. You know what we've been through,'' said Bivins, who spoke of the group overcoming conflict and tension in previous years to now own a residence in Las Vegas.
“But we call each other every day,” he continued. “We continue every day with each other. We control our families. You watched us grow up. We're still growing.”
Damson Idris won Best Actor in a TV Drama Series for his performance Snowfall. Henson and Domingo got best supporting roles The Color Purple. Domingo also won Best Actor in a Motion Picture for his performance Rustin.
from our partners at https://www.billboard.com/music/awards/usher-fantasia-barrino-color-purple-2024-naacp-image-awards-1235635236/