The Recording Academy’s Black Music Collective presented its fourth annual Recording Academy Honors on Thursday, January 29, 2026, celebrating the careers of Pharrell Williams, Brandy, and Kirk Franklin. Held at the Fairmont Century Plaza, the event also featured a surprise recognition for rapper Eve, who was officially awarded a Grammy for her contribution to the 1999 hit “You Got Me.”
Pharrell Williams received the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award, presented by Justin Timberlake and Tyler, the Creator. In his acceptance speech, Williams called for political empathy:
“I’m praying that they find it in their hearts some empathy, some grace and, most importantly, some mercy for these people who may not have been born in this country, but love it just as much.”
He also described music as his:
“Skeleton key that unlocked every opportunity in my life.”
Brandy was honored at the recording academy gala with the Black Music Icon Award following a musical tribute by Coco Jones, FLO, and Kehlani. Visibly moved, she performed “Almost Doesn’t Count” and said:
“Never did I imagine my name and the word ‘icon’ to ever merge. I’m humbly just a vessel chosen to use the gift to inspire, touch and change a life.”
Kirk Franklin, also a Black Music Icon recipient, was celebrated with performances by John Legend, Lecrae, PJ Morton, and Tamela Mann. Reflecting on his faith and career, Franklin stated:
“I learned early on about a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and never wanted to be afraid to say that name. It hurts when I see the faith that I really believe in be so divisive.”
The evening’s unannounced highlight was the presentation of a physical Grammy to Eve for her uncredited verse on The Roots’ “You Got Me,” which originally won in 2000. Eve told the audience:
“What is yours never can miss you, even 30 years later. I am so honored, and I am so grateful to be here today. This moment is so full circle for me.”
The ceremony served as a lead-up to the 68th Grammy Awards on February 1. No other honorary corrections were announced during the gala.
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