Usher To Receive President’s Award At 2024 NAACP Image Awards

Usher is set to be recognized with special honors during the 55th annual NAACP Image Awards. The R&B singer has been named the recipient of the President’s Award during the 2024 ceremony. Recognizing special achievement and distinguished public services, past honorees include Lauryn Hill, JAY-Z, Muhammad Ali, Jesse Jackson, Colin Powell, Rihanna, and LeBron James.

“We are honored to present this year’s President’s Award to Usher for his unparalleled talent and remarkable contributions as an artist and advocate for our community,” detailed Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP.

“Beyond his vocal talent and stage presence, Usher has empowered thousands of under-resourced youth to pursue their dreams through college readiness programs, financial literacy, and career planning. His dedication to creating positive change in the world has touched countless lives, redefining the boundaries of creativity and compassion.”

Usher removes his shirt as he performs during the Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show at Allegiant Stadium on February 11, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Kansas City Chiefs defeated the San Francisco 49ers 25-22 in overtime.

Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Hosted by Queen Latifah, previously announced honorees include poet laureate Amanda Gorman, June Ambrose, New Edition, and Frankie Beverly. Winners announced throughout the week during special ceremonies include Victoria Monét, The Color Purple, Kirk Franklin, Issa Rae, A Black Lady Sketch Show, and more.

The televised event will feature a performance by Andra Day and roster of A-List presenters, including Delroy Lindo, Deon Cole, Diarra Kilpatrick, Donnie Wahlberg, Erika Alexander, Idris Elba, Jeffrey Wright, Keke Palmer, Kenya Barris, Kerry Washington, Leslie Jones, Lil Rel Howery, Morris Chestnut, Ryan Michelle Bathe, Sabrina Elba, Sterling K. Brown and Taraji P. Henson.

Raye Boyce wearing yellow

Raye Boyce attends Beautycon™ Los Angeles 2023 at The Reef on September 17, 2023 in Los Angeles, California.

Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Beautycon™

Leading up to the stage, the 2024 red carpet will also be available for viewing. The NAACP Image Awards announced a partnership with the social media app SPILL to livestream the glamorous walk-through. Set to be hosted on the platform by influencer Raye Boyce, users will get an exclusive look at the event.

“Some of the most iconic moments at an awards show happen before the show on the red carpet, where Black fashion is in the spotlight and the real tea is served,” explained Johnson. “We’re thrilled to partner with SPILL, a Black-owned social media app that is the destination for culture, to offer a new way to experience the red carpet live on this year’s show, all from the comfort of their phones.”

For the full show, audiences can tune into the 2024 NAACP Image Awards live at 7 p.m. ET on BET, BET Her, and VH1. Stream the NAACP Awards online free with DirecTV Stream.