Broadcast Music, Inc. gathered some of the most influential hit-makers for the 2015 BMI R&B/Hip-Hop Awards in Beverly Hills, California Friday night. Award-winning music great Nile Rodgers was honored with the BMI Icon Award, and several artists performed well-known songs that he helped create.
Rodgers is a songwriter, composer, producer, guitarist and arranger who began to heavily influence music in the mid-1970s during the disco era. He became the co-founder and lead guitarist of Chic, a band that landed major hits such as “Le Freak” and “Good Times.” He’s produced for Sister Sledge, Diana Ross, David Bowie, Madonna, and more.
Vocal powerhouses hit the stage to honor Rodgers’ contribution to music by singing timeless tunes he was responsible for putting together. Kelly Price belted out “Upside Down,” V. Bozeman covered “I Want Your Love,” Deborah Cox presented her rendition of “I’m Coming Out,” and Kathy Sledge and the Company presented the audience with a version of the classic tune, “We Are Family.” CeeLo Green then hit the stage for a performance of “Let’s Dance,” and Chuck D shared the stage with Rodgers to perform “Good Times” and “Rapper’s Delight.”
Other exceptional music acts were honored with awards for their outstanding work in 2014, including John Legend for “All of Me.” DJ Mustard was named Songwriter of the Year for drafting up hits like “I Don’t F— With You” and “Main Chick.”
Check out pictures of the attendees and Rodgers below.
