Move over upstarts, the Prince of R&B is here to reclaim his crown. Usher, the smooth crooner out of Atlanta, is set to be lavished with the Lifetime Achievement BET Award, at the network's star-studded Awards show come June 30. Scooping up an award that has graced the shelves of music legends like Whitney Houston, Prince, and even Samuel L. Jackson, Usher joins the ranks of the greats in a move that has the industry buzzing.
It's no small feat, considering the R&B sensation has been ruling airwaves and breaking hearts with his velvety vocals for well over three decades now. And while he may be pushing mid-forties, Usher's still in his prime—as evidenced by his show-stealing Super Bowl halftime gig earlier this year. The man's still got moves that'd put rookies to shame, not to mention the sort of album sales—80 million globally, in case you lost count—that make record execs' heads spin. In a statement obtained by FOX 5 Atlanta, we learn the icing on his career cake is his eighth studio album, "Coming Home", marking his debut as an indie artist.
But let's not forget, Usher's about more than just killer hooks and slick dance routines. According to Atlanta News First, the singer is also a staunch philanthropist with his New Look Foundation, committed to empowering youngsters worldwide. That's right, the man with the smoothest falsetto in the business is also looking to uplift the next generation.
When it comes to BET's endowment, Connie Orlando, BET’s executive vice president of specials, music programming, and music strategy didn't mince words. "The relationship between BET and Usher spans decades," she said, "From his chart-topping hits, electrifying performances, and unforgettable vocals to his signature moves, and sound, Usher continues to stand on culture, setting new standards for the music industry and Black Excellence." So yeah, when Orlando says they're planning an "amazing lineup" for Usher's tribute, you can bet it's going to be an evening to remember, as reported by Atlanta News First.
The awards ceremony itself is gearing up to be a veritable who's who of the music world. Among the glittering nominees’ names, Drake stands out as the one leading the pack. And let's not forget the fierce Nicki Minaj, the most nominated woman of the night with six nods to her name, including Album of the Year for 'Pink Friday 2.' It's all going down live, from the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, and if past shows are anything to go by, viewers are in for one heck of a ride.
