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Black Music Action Coalition announces honorees for 2026 gala

Common, Patti LaBelle, and Public Enemy will receive honors at the annual advocacy event in Beverly Hills.

The short version

  • The Black Music Action Coalition revealed the honorees for its sixth annual gala, scheduled for September 24, 2026, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.
  • Common, Patti LaBelle, Public Enemy, and several prominent music industry executives will receive awards celebrating their advocacy and leadership.
  • Proceeds from the Live Nation-presented event will support community initiatives, including guaranteed income projects and wildfire relief efforts in Altadena.

Key facts

  • The 2026 Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) Gala will take place on September 24, 2026, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, presented by Live Nation.[Variety]
  • Artist honorees include Common receiving the BMAC Harry Belafonte Change Agent Award, Patti LaBelle receiving the BMAC Icon Award, and Public Enemy receiving the BMAC Social Impact Award.[Variety]
  • Interscope executive Nicole Wyskoarko will be awarded the inaugural Sylvia Rhone Visionary Award, created to recognize innovation, mentorship, and artist opportunities.[Variety]
  • Executive honorees also include Tina Davis of Empire, Universal Music Group's Global Impact Team, and Lee Anderson, Marty Diamond, Lenore Kinder, Kevin Shivers, and Mallory Smith.[Variety]
  • Radio personality Kenny Burns is set to return as the host of the ceremony.[Variety]
  • Funds generated by the gala will aid BMAC programs, such as guaranteed income efforts and direct support for Altadena residents recovering from the Eaton Fires.[Variety]

Sources