Chaka Khan, Kelly Rowland, and Others Honored at 2026 Black Women in Music Dinner
Chaka Khan is set to receive the Vanguard Award at The Connie Orlando Foundation Presents Black Women in Music Dinner on June 12, 2026. This prestigious event will take place at the Audrey Irmas Pavilion in Los Angeles. The honor follows Khan’s recent recognition with a lifetime achievement award from the Recording Academy in February.
Celebration of Black Women in Music
The Black Women in Music Dinner aims to celebrate the contributions of Black women in the music industry. According to the organizers, the event recognizes those who “safeguard, preserve, and elevate the music industry and their unmatched contributions to Black excellence.” The evening will be hosted by comedian, actress, and podcaster Zainab Johnson, and will serve as a fundraiser for breast cancer prevention and care.
Honorees and Awards
The event will honor several influential figures in the music industry. Khan will receive the Vanguard Award, acknowledging her legendary status and lasting influence across genres. She has won ten Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2023.
Kelly Rowland will be recognized with the Velvet Guard Award, celebrating her artistry and cultural impact. Rowland is a four-time Grammy winner, known for her work both as a member of Destiny’s Child and as a solo artist.
Choreographer Fatima Robinson will receive the Guardian of Vision Award for her significant contributions to the choreography of major artists, including Michael Jackson and Aaliyah. Her work extends to film and television, with credits including Save the Last Dance and Dreamgirls.
Music executive Natina Nimene will be honored with the New Guard Award, recognizing her role as a transformative leader in the industry. Additionally, veteran music journalist Gail Mitchell and music producer Ebonie Smith will be spotlighted as Guardian Angels, celebrating their roles as protectors and guides within the music community.
Focus on Breast Cancer Awareness
The dinner serves as the annual fundraiser for The Connie Orlando Foundation, which focuses on breast cancer awareness, research, and care. The foundation aims to empower women by providing them with essential resources and support to combat breast cancer and improve health outcomes.
In a statement, Orlando emphasized the importance of visibility and ownership for Black women in music. She noted that the initiative aims to create a space for celebrating their contributions on their own terms.
Sherrese Clarke, founder and CEO of HarbourView Equity Partners, highlighted the critical role women play in shaping global culture. She stated that Black Women in Music and The Connie Orlando Foundation are essential in redefining how artistry and leadership are perceived and valued.
Support and Production
The event has garnered support from various partners, including Amazon Music and BET Media Group. It is executive produced by The Connie Orlando Foundation and features an all-Black women-led creative and production team, including Glorified, One Happy Camper Productions, and Wright Productions.
As reported by www.billboard.com.
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Published on 2026-05-22 01:26:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk