African-American artistes honored by NMAAM
Funk music legend George Clinton, Doug E. Fresh and Gloria Gaynor were honored by The National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM) on Thursday. The African-American artistes were also conferred with the Rhapsody & Rhythm Award at the sixth annual Celebration of Legends Gala at the Karl F. Dean Grand Ballroom in Nashville, T
The award was given almost at the tail end of Black Music Month for what the artistes have achieved in the past and still to this day.
“The Rhapsody & Rhythm recipients span the breadth of African-American music, representing hip-hop, disco, and funk,” said H. Beecher Hicks III, NMAAM’s President, and CEO in a statement released to newsmen. “Their artistry is influential and innovative, carrying an impact that is still evident today.”
The event was hosted by Grammy-winning producer Shannon Sanders, and a tribute performance was given in honor of Gaynor – who’s best known for her 1978 anthem “I Will Survive” – by singer Avery Sunshine.
Fatman Scoop alongside DJ Mars, honored Fresh with a performance, and artistes Louis York and Mr. Talkbox performed for Clinton.
Fresh – who came into limelight with rapper Slick Rick in the ’80s with hit songs like “La Di Da Di” and “The Show” – shared series of news about the Legend’s Gala Thursday, just before the ceremony started.
“Well deserved. Congrats,” Gaynor first shared the news of the honor via Twitter.
“I feel so very blessed & honored to be receiving the “Rhapsody & Rhythm Award” tomorrow night alongside #DougEFresh and @ george_clinton at the @theNMAAM National Museum of African American Music Sixth Annual Celebration of Legends Gala,” she tweeted on Wednesday night.
“So deserved,” another tweeted.
Meanwhile, Clinton was a bit more compact in his posting of the award.
“Tonight!!!!! #nmaam#nashville#legend#funkisitsownreward,” he tweeted Thursday morning.
“Congrats! You deserve all the kudos you get,” while a fan commented under the post.