Watch Urban One Honors

Urban One Honors is an annual awards show that celebrates and recognizes black excellence in various fields, including music, television, film, and activism. The show is produced by Urban One, which is the largest black-owned media company in the United States. Urban One Honors premiered on TV One in December 2019 and was hosted by DL Hughley, an accomplished comedian, actor, and radio host.

The show presents a unique combination of celebrity appearances, musical performances, and moving tribute segments, honoring notable black figures and organizations that have made significant contributions to their communities. The awards themselves are named after legendary black activists and leaders, such as the Cathy Hughes Excellence Award, the Aretha Franklin ICON Award, and the Congressman John Lewis Social Justice Award.

One of the standout moments of the 2019 show was the tribute to the Mayor of Atlanta, Keisha Lance Bottoms, who received the Cathy Hughes Excellence Award for her outstanding leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Black Lives Matter protests in Atlanta. The tribute featured appearances from some of Atlanta's most notable celebrities and public figures, including Jermaine Dupri, the legendary music producer, and Brandy Norwood, a Grammy-winning singer and actress.

Jermaine Dupri also performed during the show, showcasing his incredible talent as both a producer and an artist. The highlight of his performance was a medley of some of his biggest hits, including "Welcome to Atlanta" and "Money Ain't a Thang," which had the audience on their feet and dancing along.

Brandy Norwood delivered a powerful performance of her hit song "Wanna Be Down," which was a tribute to the late singer and actress Natalie Desselle-Reid, who passed away from colon cancer in December 2020. The performance was emotional and heartfelt, with Brandy's powerful vocals and stage presence proving why she is one of the most respected artists in the music industry.

Another memorable moment from the show was the tribute to the legendary singer and civil rights activist, the late Aretha Franklin. The tribute featured appearances from some of Franklin's closest friends and colleagues, including Clive Davis, Smokey Robinson, and Jennifer Hudson. The tribute was a fitting tribute to one of the most influential figures in American music history, and it left the audience in tears.

Overall, Urban One Honors 2019 was a powerful and inspiring show that celebrated black excellence in all its forms. From the moving tributes to the incredible musical performances, the entire show was a fitting tribute to the black pioneers who have paved the way for future generations. With its star-studded lineup of performers and presenters, the show is a must-watch for anyone looking to celebrate the achievements of the black community.