As we reminisce on the vibrant history of music, it’s impossible to overlook the 2016 BMI R&;B/Hip-Hop Awards that took place almost a decade ago. While the industry has seen several shifts and advancements since then, the impact of this star-studded event still resonates strongly. Renowned actor and comedian Chris Tucker hosted the awards alongside BMI’s President & CEO Mike O’Neill and Vice President of Writer/Publir Relations Catherine Brewton. This event was special not only for its charismatic host but also for the celebration of Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Toni Braxton, who was honored with the BMI President’s Award, a recognition of her outstanding contributions to popular music over what has now been three decades.
BMI R&;B/Hip-Hop Awards 2016
The private event took place at The Woodruff Arts Center’s Symphony Hall on September 1st. Hip-hop heavyweight and mega producer DJ Khaled & Friends opened the show. The event was attended by R&;B and hip-hop’s elite including Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Big Boi, Tamar Braxton, Rae Sremmurd, Rich Homie Quan, Kent Jones, and more.
The BMI President’s Award
The BMI President’s Award is presented on special occasions to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the art of music and profoundly influenced the entertainment industry. As the 2016 honoree, Braxton joined fellow recipients Ludacris and Will.i. in sharing this distinction.
Awards and Honors
The songwriters, producers, and publirs of the most-performed R&;B/Hip-Hop songs in the US from BMI’s repertoire were also honored. The BMI R&;B/Hip-Hop Songwriter, Producer, and Publir of the Year were named during the ceremony. The BMI Social Star Award was also presented, with contenders including hip-hop recording artist Joey Bada$$, rapper/comedian Lil Dicky, and rapper/producer Logic.
Toni Braxton’s Career
Before becoming an international sensation, Toni Braxton began her career performing alongside her sisters as one-fifth of the singing group, The Braxtons. She then launched a successful solo career, selling more than 40 million albums worldwide. Some of her hit singles include, “Another Sad Love Song,” “Breathe Again,” “You’re Makin’ Me High,” “He Wasn’t Man Enough” and “Unbreak My Heart”. She has received a total of seven Grammy-Awards, including Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1996 for “Unbreak My Heart”.
Braxton’s Recent Work
In the past few years, Braxton has appeared on “Dancing with the Stars,” starred on Broadway, headlined a Las Vegas residency, and starred in WE tv’s hit show Braxton Family Values with her four sisters.
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