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On Saturday, June 18, 2022, the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame Award Ceremony took place in downtown Atlanta, Ga., on the sidewalks of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Northside Drive. This year’s second annual event started in January 2021 in homage to esteem iconic African Americans for their achievements and contributions to the Black culture and community. Walk of Fame, a collaborative effort by the Black American Brewton (GEC), Demmette Guidry (BAMAssoc), Erica Thomas (GEC), and Michael T Mauldin (BAMAssoc) was honored to announce this year’s inductees and categories. The Black Music Month celebration took place during the weekend celebrating the Juneteenth holiday, which would include honoring the legendary PRINCE as a Legacy inductee, who would have celebrated his birthday on June 7 and 25 years of Emancipation.

The year’s list of honorees included trailblazers, artists, entertainers, and luminaries from all “walks” of the entertainment industry. Those to be esteemed with the Crown Jewels of Excellence Award included Cathy Hughes (Foundational), Edward Kennedy “Duke.” Ellington (Foundational), Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff (Foundational), Robert Smith (Foundational), RUN DMC (Foundational), T.D. Jakes (Foundational), Charlie Wilson (Mainstream), Donnie McClurkin (Gospel), Tamela Mann (Gospel), The Clark Sisters (Gospel Group), NAS (Hip Hop), Angela Bassett (Actress), Steve Harvey (Mogul), Bob Marley (International), Pattie La Belle (Legacy), and Prince (Legacy).

In allegiance with the preservation, acknowledgment, and inspiration of the Black community, BMEWOF recognizes Atlanta as being the mecca of Black Music and entertainment. What better time and place than June and Atlanta to honor the richness of Black Music, entertainment, and creativity. Acknowledging the affluence of African American ancestry, future, eminence, and tenacity is what The Juneteenth Celebration was all about. On the upper deck of the Home Depot Backyard in the the stadium, there were elegant stations of historical art and culinary brilliance. The Shular Hospitality Group catered for the event bringing bold decor and even bolder flavors to the table. They conceptualized the origin, the diaspora, and the Emancipation of the Black African American community into their food presentation.

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The chefs and servers provided warm and courteous service while serving delectable dishes that ranged from soul food to seafood, from yam biscuits to lobster tails. While everyone was getting their “grub” on, live performances from Julian Marley and Jekalyn Carr took place on stage downstairs on the lawn.

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The atmosphere was a VIBE all by itself. Many celebrities were excited to talk about upcoming projects. When the Rev. Run, accompanied by his daughter Angela, was asked about future endeavors, he simply replied, “I don’t speak on what is new and upcoming, but just know that my next move is my best move yet.” The closing ceremonies were illuminated with large fireworks featuring Prince’s song, “Let’s Go Crazy.”

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The night was about positivity, power, and representation of the Black community. In addition, the night was a testament to remind and inspire African Americans that wealth, prosperity, and success are obtainable. When founder Cathy Hughes was asked what advice she had for the youth, she stated, “It starts with you all. If you can withstand and not allow negativity to flourish and continue, we will see things change. You can only do that if you are purposely a part of it because you cannot do it from the outside. Put your foot down, be positive, and see how many more positive actions take place.”