Last night, TV One hosted the third annual Urban One Honors award show, which was simulcasted for the first time on its sister network CLEO TV. Celebrating the exemplary accomplishments of African American women, the special was hosted by Grammy-Award-winning gospel artist Erica Campbell and award-winning journalist, author, and syndicated columnist Roland Martin.
Honorees included Stacey Abrams, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Dr. Ala Stanford, Rosalind Brewer and Robin Rue Simmons.
A special homage was also made to the International Sweethearts of Rhythm, one of the most celebrated female jazz bands of all time. The event was developed to acknowledge and honor individuals or organizations that have made an extraordinary impact on society and culture.
Highlights of the special included powerful musical tributes, moving speeches and calls-to-action for political, educational and social change. Cathy Hughes also welcomed and thanked those who supported the program and celebrated the honorees.
This year’s theme of ‘Women Leading the Change’ commemorated the myriad achievements of women leaders who are blazing trails and creating new pathways for others in their respective areas of expertise.
The ceremony was packed with equally talented, contemporary, female performers including Jazmine Sullivan, Da Brat, Avery Sunshine, and Le’Andria Johnson, and the all-female house band Kim Burse and the KB Players. A special homage was made to the International Sweethearts of Rhythm, with five musical performances celebrating the jazz ensemble throughout the ceremony.
UB Spoke to Roland Martin about this years show and he shares with us, why the Urban One Honors are important.
UB Preview: Urban One Honors 2021
