Wendy Williams, Dikembe Mutomb, New Edition, Peabo Bryson, Gabi Gregg and Civil Rights Icon Xernona Clayton Received 2017 Trumpet Awards
Civil Rights Icon Xernona Clayton, founder of The Trumpet Awards. Photo by Naomi Richard.
Naomi Richard for The Austin Villager Newspaper | Printed here by permission.
The 25th Annual Trumpet Awards celebrating African-American achievements and contributions occurred January 21 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, Georgia. The Villager was on site for all festivities from the red carpet arrivals to the invitation only VIP post-show reception. EMMY® nominated actor Deon Cole and seven-time NAACP Image Award nominated actress Nicole Ari served as hosts for the black tie gala.
As a special 25th Anniversary announcement, Bounce TV acquired all assets of The Trumpet Awards and now owns, produces and exclusively world premieres the star-studded event.
Honorees at this year’s silver anniversary ceremony included television host and Daytime EMMY® nominee Wendy Williams, presented with the Trumpet Award for Entertainment; former NBA great Dikembe Mutomb, recognized with the Humanitarian Trumpet Award; New Edition received the Lifetime Achievement Trumpet; GRAMMY®-winning soul singer Peabo Bryson honored with the Legend Trumpet and fashion blogger Gabi Gregg was given the Trailblazer Trumpet Award.
Peabo Bryson honored with the Legend Trumpet. Photo by Naomi Richard.
In a very special tribute, civil rights icon and founder of the Trumpet Awards Xernona Clayton was presented with the distinguished “Golden Trumpet Award” in recognition of her unparalleled leadership, affecting change, and steadfast work in building the legacy of the awards.
Stand out performances included the all star Gospel tribute featuring Shirley Caesar, Tamela Mann, Erica Campbell, Le’Andria Johnson, Jekalyn Carr, Travis Greene and Derik Minor.
Travis Greene
Erica Campbell. Photo by Naomi Richard.
Shirley Caesar. Photo by Naomi Richard.
The highly charged musical tribute to New Edition by R&B bands Jagged Edge and Silk were incredible and included choreographed dance moves! In their acceptance remarks, New Edition announced another special upcoming moment for the group. They will be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame January 23rd, and they will finally receive the biopic that their stellar tenure so richly deserves on BET January 24-26.
New Edition accepts 2017 Trumpet Awards. Photo by Naomi Richard.
Finally, you must see the Ain’t No Sunshine singer/songwriter himself Bill Withers who flew in to honor Peabo Bryson. One legend giving props to a fellow legend or protege. It was priceless.
Other performances included Kenny Lattimore, Bobby Valentino, Keke Wyatt, Lalah Hathaway, Regina Bella and BJ the Chicago Kid.
Grammy Award winner Lalah Hathaway performs. Photo by Naomi Richard.
Bounce TV will world premiere the 25th Annual Trumpet Awards on Sunday, January 29 at 9:00pm ET. Check your local listings.
Wendy Williams, Dikembe Mutomb, New Edition, Peabo Bryson, Gabi Gregg and Civil Rights Icon Xernona Clayton