Usher to Receive NAACP’s Presidents Award

Usher will receive the President’s Award during the 55th NAACP Image Awards, the NAACP announced on Friday.

The singer and songwriter will be honored with the award at the ceremony, which will be broadcast live on Saturday at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CBS and BET. Queen Latifah will host.

The President’s Award is “presented in recognition of special achievement and distinguished public service,” says the organization. Previous recipients include Gabrielle Union-Wade, Dwyane Wade, Rihanna, LeBron James, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Muhammad Ali, Jesse Jackson, Colin Powell, Condoleezza Rice, Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter, Lauryn Hill and Soledad O’Brien, among many others.

“We are honored to present this year’s President’s Award to Usher for his unparalleled talent and remarkable contributions as an artist and advocate for our community,” says Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP. “Beyond his vocal talent and stage presence, Usher has empowered thousands of under-resourced youth to pursue their dreams through college readiness programs, financial literacy, and career planning. His dedication to creating positive change in the world has touched countless lives, redefining the boundaries of creativity and compassion.”

This week, the NAACP has announced winners for its 55th annual awards show. Andra Day will perform, and presenters include Delroy Lindo, Deon Cole, Diarra Kilpatrick, Donnie Wahlberg, Erika Alexander, Idris Elba, Jeffrey Wright, Keke Palmer, Kenya Barris, Kerry Washington, Leslie Jones, Lil Rel Howery, Morris Chestnut, Ryan Michelle Bathe, Sabrina Elba, Sterling K. Brown and Taraji P. Henson.

Previously announced honorees include poet laureate Amanda Gorman, who will receive the Chairman’s Award, and R&B group New Edition, which will receive the Hall of Fame Award.