New Edition To Be Inducted Into NAACP Image Awards Hall Of Fame

New Edition has been announced as an inductee into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame. Announced on Thursday (March 7), the distinction is reserved for individuals and groups who exist as pioneers in their respective fields and have influence that will shape the profession for generations to come.

Previous inductees include Eddie Murphy, Stevie Wonder, Oprah Winfrey, Spike Lee, Carlos Santana, Little Richard, Sidney Poitier, Earth Wind and Fire, and Aretha Franklin.

Additionally, the organization revealed Frankie Beverly as the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award during the NAACP Image Awards Dinner. According to the release, the honor is presented to individuals who have made significant contributions to civil and human rights, in addition to their contributions to the entertainment industry.

“It is our distinct honor to celebrate New Edition and Frankie Beverly–two musical icons that have been instrumental in shaping our cultural landscape with their remarkable talent and enduring influence,” detailed NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson in a statement. “We recognize the power of their artistry in showcasing the enduring power of Black excellence in the arts.”

“New Edition and Frankie Beverly’s influence has laid the foundation for modern R&B, shaping the genre’s sonic landscape and resonance in numerous ways,” added Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET.

“From the acclaimed The New Edition Story on BET to our commemoration of Frankie Beverly at the 2012 BET Awards, we are thrilled to celebrate these musical luminaries, whose melodies are intricately woven into the very fabric of our culture.”

The NAACP Image Awards are set to air live on Saturday, March 16 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET and CBS. Non–televised Image Awards categories will be streamed via their official website from March 11–14.