By Raymond Ward, The New 411
The incomparable Freddie Jackson is one of the most iconic R&B male vocalists of all time! His timeless classics like “Rock Me Tonight (For Old Times Sake)” (1985), “Have You Ever Loved Somebody” (1986), “Jam Tonight” (1986), “Tasty Love” (1986), “You Are My Lady” (1985), and “Nice & Slow”(1988) have elevated the chart-topping crooner to legendary status.
While Jackson has earned his place as an R&B legend, he continues to tour and create timeless classics. The 4th Annual Black Music Honors recognized the living legend, presenting him with The State Farm Legend Award. Of the honor, Jackson enthused, “I’m honored, happy, and still floating! To be honored by Black Music Honors speaks volumes and I’m so grateful to be here to receive this. Often roses are given when you’re gone, I’m so blessed to receive this adulation while I can enjoy it!”
Currently airing in broadcast syndication on Bounce TV, the star-studded show was hosted by television and radio personality Rickey Smiley and Grammy® Award-winner LeToya Luckett-Walker. Other honorees included Yolanda Adams who received the Gospel Music Icon Award; culturally-conscience eclectic group Arrested Development who received the Hip Hop Icon Award; songstress, Tamia, received the Soul Music Icon Award, and platinum-selling group Xscape received the Urban Music Icon Award presented by AT&T.
The evening featured several memorable tributes including Leon Timbo and Major who performed a special tribute in honor of Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Bill Withers. Avery Wilson, Tevin Campbell, and Tony Redd received a standing ovation for their performance honoring Freddie Jackson. Additional tributes were performed by Dee-1, Jade Novah, Jagged Edge, Jekalyn Carr, Naughty By Nature, June’s Diary, Keke Wyatt, Kelly Price, Le’Andria Johnson, Melanie Fiona, Travis Greene, Mali Music, 702 and more.
The night culminated with founder and chairman, Don Jackson, expressing gratitude to the honorees, presenters and performers for making the night unforgettable. He stated,” the Black Music Honors allows us to celebrate the accomplishments of the trailblazers of African-American music.”
The award show began airing in select markets on Bounce TV and is slated to air in full on October 20. Head to the Black Music Honors website for more info or click Blackmusichonors.com/Airtimes.html to check local air dates and broadcast times.
The 4th Annual Black Music Honors show is Executive Produced by Don Jackson, with Jennifer J. Jackson serving as producer, and Michael A. Johnson as producer and director. State Farm returns as the Black Music Honors title sponsor, in addition to presenting sponsors: AT&T, Walmart, Chevrolet, Neutrogena Hydro Boost, Stellar TV and Central City Productions, Inc.
Additional information on Black Music Honors can be found at www.blackmusichonors.com and on social media @blackmusichonors #BlackMusicHonors.
For more information on Freddie Jackson, including upcoming tour dates, visit Freddiejackson.net. Follow Freddie Jackson on social media on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.