R&B icon and multi-platinum, Grammy® Award-winning recording artist Ne-Yo will be bringing his style to the stage as host of the 4th Annual Urban One Honors. The televised event celebrates the accomplishments of individuals who have made extraordinary contributions in entertainment, media, music, education, and the community.
This year’s theme is “The Soundtrack of Black America” and 2022 honorees Timbaland (Music Innovation Award), Tasha Cobbs Leonard (Inspirational Impact Award), Gamble & Huff (Living Legends Award), Jennifer Hudson (Entertainment Icon Award), Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis (Lifetime Achievement Award), have used their gifts to connect us during the challenging and unprecedented year through the unifying power of soul music’s past, present and future.
During an Urban One Honors press conference with Ne-Yo, the “So Sick” singer revealed how each of the celebrants has uniquely impacted his own career and artistry.
“[Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis] They’re responsible for a lot of the music that molded me into who I am from Michael Jackson to Prince and on down. That whole era is my bread and butter, Gamble and Huff—same situation. A lot of the music that molded my sound and my appreciation for music came from.”
“Jennifer Hudson, I’ve had the honor and pleasure of working with, writing for, and singing with, she’s easily one of the most amazing voices of our generation, don’t @ me, I don’t care!”
“I’ve also had the pleasure of working with Timbaland. Timbaland changed the sound of Hip-Hop and R&B for pretty much everybody. For me to be part of music myself, how could I not give that man his flowers?”
Urban One Honors also features opening performance by Grammy & Academy Award winning singer H.E.R., as well as appearances by icons Jermaine Dupri, Tyrese, VaShawn Mitchell, Johnny Gill & Ralph Tresvant, D-Nice, Kelly Price, Tank, Missy Elliott and Marlon Wayans. TV & Radio Personality Eva Marcille will also host a special backstage pass segment, featuring exclusive interviews with the show’s honorees, performers, and presenters.
The 4th Annual Urban One Honors will air on Monday, January 17, 2022— Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, at 8/7c on TV One and Cleo TV.
