Chaka Khan and Kelly Rowland Honored at Black Women in Music
Chaka Khan and Kelly Rowland Honored at Black Women in Music
There is no better way to continue the Black Music Month festivities then celebrating the Black women preserving, protecting, and driving the global music industry! BET Executive Connie Orlando hosted her second annual Black Women in Music event honoring the legendary Chaka Khan and the iconic Kelly Rowland. The evening, brought to life by an all-Black, women-led creative and production team, also gave well-deserved flowers to an elite group of trailblazers, including choreographer Fatima Robinson (Michael Jackson, Aaliyah, Mary J. Blige, etc.), music executive Natina Nimene, Billboard’s editor-at-large Gail Mitchell, and Gender Amplified’s Ebonie Smith.
In her opening remarks, Orlando emphasized the event’s dual mission of empowerment and health advocacy. She highlighted that the foundation is spiritually committed to education, early detection, and ending the systemic healthcare disparities Black women face regarding breast cancer.
The night’s biggest moments came from its musical honorees who took the stage. Chaka Khan received the Vanguard Award, recognizing her timeless influence and 10 Grammy wins. The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer delivered a soulful speech on the power of sisterhood and leaning into spirituality. She also shared her newfound peace after moving to Georgia to connect with nature, encouraging everyone to take time to “lay in the grass.”
Kelly Rowland was in the building to receive the Velvet Guard Award for her lasting cultural impact. Introduced by her “bonus mom” Tina Knowles, the four-time Grammy winner delivered a heartfelt acceptance speech, expressing deep gratitude to Knowles. Rowland also gave an emotional shout-out to her Destiny’s Child sisters Beyoncé, LeToya Luckett, LaTavia Roberson, and Michelle Williams, for sharing her musical journey from the very beginning.
