The Black Music Action Coalition held its sixth annual gala at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, celebrating figures including Patti LaBelle, Common, Public Enemy, Nicole Wyskoarko and Tina Davis. Presented by Live Nation and hosted by Kenny Burns, the event emphasised the continuing cultural and social importance of Black music, while raising funds for BMAC’s programmes and grants.

Wyskoarko received the Sylvia Rhone Visionary Award, Common was given the Harry Belafonte Change Agent Award, LaBelle received the Icon Award, Public Enemy accepted the Social Impact Award, and Davis was honoured with the Clarence Avant Trailblazer Award. The evening included speeches, performances and tributes, including a standing ovation for Public Enemy and a musical celebration of LaBelle’s career; proceeds will support initiatives such as Music Maker grants, accelerator programmes and the Restore & Rebuild LA Programme.