On December 17, 2025, the Recording Academy’s Black Music Collective announced that Pharrell Williams, Brandy, and Kirk Franklin would be honored at the fourth annual Recording Academy Honors during GRAMMY Week 2026. This highly anticipated event will take place on January 29 at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles and will recognize these legendary artists for their immense contributions to music, culture, and the global entertainment industry.
Pharrell Williams, one of the most influential and versatile figures in contemporary music, will receive the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates his groundbreaking career as a producer, artist, and entrepreneur. Pharrell has had a far-reaching impact on modern music, blending elements of hip-hop, pop, R&B, and electronic music in ways that have influenced not just the sound of the music industry but also the cultural landscape. His production work, including chart-topping hits for artists like Jay-Z, Beyoncé, and Justin Timberlake, has reshaped the way music is created and consumed. Pharrell’s impact extends beyond his music, with ventures in fashion, technology, and philanthropy, all of which have solidified his place as a global cultural force. The Dr. Dre Global Impact Award honors Pharrell’s remarkable ability to transcend genres and bring a new level of creativity and influence to the entertainment world.
Brandy, a multi-talented artist known for her stunning vocal abilities, will be honored with the Black Music Icon Award. Often referred to as the “vocal bible,” Brandy has left an indelible mark on R&B music and pop culture. Throughout her career, she has created timeless hits that resonate with listeners across generations. From her early days as a teen star to her evolution into a powerful vocal and acting force, Brandy’s work has influenced countless artists. Her groundbreaking album “Never Say Never” became a defining moment in 90s R&B, showcasing her incredible vocal range and ability to infuse emotion into every note. Brandy’s influence extends beyond music into television and film, where she has continued to break barriers and redefine the possibilities for Black women in entertainment. Her Black Music Icon Award recognizes not only her exceptional artistry but also her longevity and impact on the culture.
Kirk Franklin, a pioneering force in contemporary gospel music, will also receive the Black Music Icon Award. Franklin’s innovative approach to gospel music, which blends traditional gospel with elements of hip-hop, R&B, and pop, has transformed the genre and made it more accessible to a wide range of audiences. As a producer, songwriter, and performer, Franklin has played a pivotal role in bringing gospel music into the mainstream, collaborating with artists from various genres to bring his uplifting messages to diverse listeners. His work with groups like The Family and his solo career have earned him a place as one of the most important figures in contemporary gospel music. Franklin’s ability to bridge the gap between sacred and secular music has not only expanded the reach of gospel but has also helped to redefine what gospel music can be. The Black Music Icon Award honors his extraordinary contributions to both gospel music and the broader musical landscape.
These honors, set to take place just days before the 2026 GRAMMY Awards, highlight the Recording Academy’s ongoing commitment to recognizing the contributions of Black artists to the global music industry. The event serves as a reminder of the immense cultural impact Black musicians have had on the evolution of music, from shaping genres to influencing the broader cultural narrative. The celebration of Pharrell Williams, Brandy, and Kirk Franklin underscores the importance of acknowledging and preserving the legacies of these artists, whose work continues to inspire and shape the future of music. By honoring these three trailblazers, the Recording Academy reaffirms its role in recognizing the artistry, innovation, and influence of Black musicians and their indelible mark on music history.