Usher, ‘Color Purple’ Honored at 2024 NAACP Image Awards

Usher was named Entertainer of the Year at the 55th Annual NAACP Awards on Saturday night (March 16), which highlighted works by artists and writers of color.

After Usher accepted his award at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, the superstar R&B singer spoke about being grateful for the journey of his successful career that has spanned three decades.

She recounted several of her recent big moments, including her sold-out Las Vegas residency, her wedding, and the release of her ninth studio album. Coming home and his Super Bowl halftime performance, which became the most watched in the history of the game.

Usher defeated Colman Domingo, Fantasia Barrino, Halle Bailey and Keke Palmer.

“I don’t know how many people do so many things in one place,” said the multiple Grammy winner, who was presented with the award by Oprah Winfrey. After being surprised by Winfrey’s presence, she thanked those who have supported him over the years.

“This is for you, you, my numbers one,” said the singer as the audience repeated his words. The final words of his speech were recited lyrics from his popular song “Superstar” from his album 2024. Confessionswhich has sold more than 10 million units in the US.

Earlier in the ceremony, Usher was honored with the President’s Award for the singer’s public service achievements through his New Look Foundation. He thanked the strong women in his life, including his mother and his wife Jenn Goicoechea, whom he married after his Super Bowl halftime performance last month.

“Behind or next to or with every strong man it is said that a woman is stronger,” she said.

Queen Latifah hosted the awards ceremony broadcast live on BET.

The color Purple It was awarded best film. The musical film featured a star-studded cast, including Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Domingo, HER, Danielle Brooks, Corey Hawkins and Bailey.

Barrino, who played Celie in the film, won best actress in a motion picture.

“I didn’t prepare a speech because I didn’t think I was going to win,” said the singer and actor. “I was afraid to play Celie, but I’m glad I did it. Because he kept saying ‘If I don’t win an award, the awards I win will come from the people who watched.’ Purple and the women who will identify with her and feel like Oscar when they leave.’”

New edition was included in the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame. Induction is awarded to individuals who are considered pioneers in their respective fields and whose influence shaped their profession.

“We are here in brotherhood,” Michael Bivins said as members of his group followed him. The Grammy-nominated group includes Bobby Brown, Johnny Gill, Ralph Tresvant, Ronnie DeVoe and Ricky Bell.

“You’ve seen our history. You know what we’ve been through,” said Bivins, who spoke about the group overcoming conflict and tension in its early years to now having a residency in Las Vegas.

“But we call each other every day,” he continued. “We text each other every day. We control our families. You saw us grow. “We are still growing.”

Damson Idris won best actor in a television drama series for his role in Snowfall. Henson and Domingo took home best supporting roles in The color Purple. Domingo also won best actor in a motion picture for his role in Rustin.