Grammy-nominated R&B group New Edition is set to be inducted into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame on March 16 during the 55th installment of the prestigious awards show. The event, known for its celebration of multiculturalism, will be hosted by Queen Latifah.
The NAACP Image Awards aims to promote values that inspire equality, justice, and progressive change while recognizing artists who are dedicated to upholding these values. Past inductees into the Hall of Fame include iconic figures such as Eddie Murphy, Stevie Wonder, Oprah Winfrey, Spike Lee, Carlos Santana, Little Richard, Sidney Poitier, Earth Wind and Fire, and Aretha Franklin.
Additionally, the renowned R&B singer-songwriter Frankie Beverly will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the NAACP Image Awards dinner on March 14. This award is bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to civil and human rights, as well as the entertainment industry.
New Edition, a highly successful male singing group with a career spanning over four decades, has sold over 30 million records worldwide. The group has not only entertained audiences but also launched the solo careers of members like Bobby Brown, Johnny Gill, Ralph Tresvant, and Bell-Biv-DeVoe. Their 2017 executive-produced miniseries, 'The New Edition Story,' was a massive hit for BET, attracting a record 29 million viewers.
Frankie Beverly, known for his distinctive voice and timeless compositions, has received widespread acclaim for hits like 'Golden Time of Day,' 'Joy and Pain,' and the beloved summer anthem 'Before I Let Go,' synonymous with Black culture.
NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson expressed pride in celebrating New Edition and Frankie Beverly, recognizing their significant impact on the cultural landscape and their embodiment of Black excellence in the arts.
The 55th NAACP Image Awards will be broadcast on March 16 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on BET and CBS, showcasing the talents and contributions of these musical luminaries who have shaped the genre of R&B and left an indelible mark on our cultural heritage.
