📍 Event Overview
Official Name: Black Music Honors
Location: Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atlanta, Georgia
Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
Theme: “Honoring the Icons. Elevating the Culture.”
The Black Music Honors is not just an award show—it’s a powerful cultural event that shines a spotlight on the artists, pioneers, and legends who have shaped the global music landscape through Black creativity and excellence. Held annually during Black Music Month, this star-studded gala pays tribute to the contributions of African American musicians across genres including R&B, gospel, soul, hip-hop, and more. The ceremony is broadcast nationally and serves as a beacon of pride, empowerment, and reverence for Black music heritage.
📚 History and Background
Founded in 2016 by Don Jackson, executive producer and founder of Central City Productions (also behind the Stellar Awards), the Black Music Honors was created to fill a critical void in mainstream music recognition. While other award shows frequently overlooked the roots and rhythm of Black artistry, this event set out to celebrate and archive those contributions unapologetically and with style.
What began as a niche award show has grown into a nationally televised cultural celebration reaching over 80% of U.S. households through syndication and airing on networks such as Bounce TV and the Stellar Network. The ceremony has become a must-attend event for the music industry, media, and fans alike.
Notable past honorees include:
- Missy Elliott (Hip-Hop Icon Award)
- Kirk Franklin (Gospel Music Icon Award)
- SWV (Urban Music Icon Award)
- The Whispers, Angela Winbush, and Bebe & Cece Winans
🌟 Why You Should Attend
The Black Music Honors is more than a red carpet affair—it’s a night where Black culture is center stage and the legends behind the soundtrack of our lives are uplifted and celebrated.
Why you can’t miss it:
- 🎤 Live Performances: Electrifying musical tributes from today’s hottest artists performing timeless classics.
- 🏆 Cultural Recognition: Witness iconic musicians receive long-overdue praise for their legacy and influence.
- 💬 Networking Opportunities: Mingle with celebrities, artists, producers, and executives.
- 📺 National Spotlight: Be part of an event that is televised and streamed to audiences across the country.
- 👑 Black Excellence on Display: From the fashion and speeches to the music and memories, it’s a full sensory celebration of African American artistry.
🎶 What to Expect This Year (2025 Edition)
Honorees for 2025 (TBA, but expected categories include):
- Legendary Music Icon Award
- Gospel Trailblazer Award
- R&B Lifetime Achievement Award
- Hip-Hop Influence Award
Past performers have included:
- Monica, Donnell Jones, Raheem DeVaughn, Le’Andria Johnson, Tamar Braxton, and Anthony Hamilton
- Expect a lineup of A-list vocalists, choirs, and surprise guests delivering show-stopping performances
Event Highlights:
- ✨ Red Carpet Experience: High fashion, media interviews, and celebrity moments
- 🎼 Live Musical Tributes: Special performances of classic hits by rising and established stars
- 💬 Presenter Speeches: From activists to actors, each presenter adds depth and history to the night
- 🕊️ In Memoriam: Honoring the Black music legends we’ve lost in the past year
Ticket Info:
- General Admission: Starts at $85
- VIP Experience: From $250 (includes premium seating, red carpet access, afterparty)
- Group rates and sponsorship packages available via www.blackmusichonors.com
✈️ Travel & Logistics
Closest Airport:
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) — ~25 minutes from venue
Ground Transportation:
- Uber/Lyft and taxis available
- Public transit: MARTA rail with bus transfer options
- Ample parking at Cobb Energy Centre for those driving
Getting Around Atlanta:
- Rideshare is the fastest option
- MARTA is budget-friendly and accessible for downtown and midtown areas
🏨 Where to Stay
Top Nearby Hotels:
- Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel – Directly connected to Cobb Galleria Centre
- Omni Hotel at The Battery Atlanta – Upscale and close to dining & entertainment
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Galleria – Excellent for groups or business travelers
Affordable Options:
- Airbnb options in Vinings, Midtown, or Buckhead
- Hotel deals may be available via the event site or group codes
🍽️ Where to Eat
Black-Owned or Highly Rated Restaurants Nearby:
- Old Lady Gang – Soul food by Real Housewives star Kandi Burruss
- Slutty Vegan – Iconic plant-based burgers with ATL flair
- Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours – Chef-crafted comfort food
- Busy Bee Café – A historic spot for down-home cooking
Before the Show:
Grab cocktails and small bites at The Select, South City Kitchen, or Garden & Gun Club at The Battery Atlanta.
📝 Tips for First-Timers
- Dress Code: Glamorous, Black-tie optional—come red carpet ready!
- Weather Prep: Atlanta in May is warm and humid; indoor event, but prepare for outdoor red carpet areas
- Photos & Sharing: Use the official hashtags and tag the event for reposts and visibility
- Respect the Vibe: This is a formal, televised production—arrive early and follow usher instructions for seating
📲 How to Stay Connected
Official Website:
www.blackmusichonors.com
Social Media Handles:
- Instagram: @blackmusichonors
- Facebook: @blackmusichonors
- Twitter/X: @blkMusicHonors
- YouTube: Black Music Honors
- TikTok: @blackmusichonors
Hashtag to Use & Follow:
#BlackMusicHonors2025 | #BlackExcellenceInMusic | #BHM2025
🗓️ Final Notes & Registration Info
- Purchase Tickets: Through blackmusichonors.com and Ticketmaster
- Media, Press & Vendor Applications: Open now through April 12, 2025
- COVID-19 Policy: Follows local health guidelines; subject to updates via venue
🎤 Join the Celebration!
Don’t just watch history—witness it live. The Black Music Honors is your front-row ticket to the soul of the culture, where legends are honored, and future stars rise.
📅 Mark your calendar for May 17, 2025!
Celebrate, support, and share the legacy of Black music—because the world wouldn’t sound the same without it.
🎟️ Get your tickets now and experience the rhythm of greatness!
Learn more and stay connected at www.blackmusichonors.com
Discover more Black music culture events at BlackTravelNow.com.
