By Jonathan Landrum Jr., AP Leisure Author
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Usher was named entertainer of the 12 months on the fifty fifth annual NAACP Awards on March 16, which highlighted works by entertainers and writers of shade.
After Usher accepted his award on the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, the celebrity R&B singer spoke about being grateful in regards to the journey of his profitable profession that has lasted three many years.
He reeled off a number of of his latest large moments together with his sold-out residency in Las Vegas, getting married, releasing his ninth studio album “Coming Dwelling” and his Tremendous Bowl halftime efficiency, which turned the most-watched within the sport’s historical past.
Usher beat out Colman Domingo, Fantasia Barrino, Halle Bailey and Keke Palmer.
“I don’t understand how many individuals do this a lot stuff in a single setting,” stated the multi-Grammy winner, who was introduced the award by Oprah Winfrey. After being shocked by Winfrey’s presence, he thanked those that have supported him all through the years.
“That is for you, you, my quantity ones,” the singer stated because the viewers repeated his phrases again to him.
The ultimate phrases of his speech had been recited lyrics from his in style track “Celebrity” from his 2024 album “Confessions,” which has bought greater than 10 million items within the U.S.
Earlier within the ceremony, Usher was honored with the President’s Award for the singer’s public service achievements by his New Look Basis. He thanked the sturdy ladies in his life, together with his mom and spouse Jenn Goicoechea, whom he married after his Tremendous Bowl halftime efficiency final month.
“They are saying behind or beside or with each sturdy man is a stronger lady,” he stated.
Queen Latifah hosted the awards ceremony aired stay on BET.
“The Colour Purple” was awarded greatest movement image. The musical movie featured a star-studded solid, together with Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Domingo, H.E.R., Danielle Brooks, Corey Hawkins and Bailey.
Barrino, who starred as Celie within the movie, received for greatest actress in a movement image.
“I didn’t put together a speech, as a result of I didn’t suppose I used to be going to win,” the singer-actor stated. “I used to be afraid to play Celie, however I’m glad I did. As a result of I stored saying ‘If I don’t win an award, the awards that I’ll win will come from the individuals who watched ‘Colour Purple’ and the ladies who will relate to her and really feel like Oscars once they stroll out.’”
New Version was inducted into the NAACP Picture Awards Corridor of Fame. The induction is bestowed on people who’re seen as pioneers of their respective fields and whose affect formed their occupation.
“We stand right here in brotherhood,” stated Michael Bivins whereas his group members behind him. The Grammy-nominated group consists of Bobby Brown, Johnny Gill, Ralph Tresvant, Ronnie DeVoe and Ricky Bell.
“You’ve seen our story. You realize what we’ve been by,” stated Bivins, who spoke in regards to the group overcoming battle and stress of their earlier years to now holding a residency in Las Vegas.
“However we name one another day-after-day,” he continued. “We textual content one another day-after-day. We test on our households. You watched us develop up. We’re nonetheless rising.”
Damson Idris received greatest actor in a drama tv sequence for his position in “Snowfall.” Henson and Domingo took dwelling greatest supporting roles in “The Colour Purple.” Domingo additionally received greatest actor in a movement image for his position in “Rustin.”
