The Black Business Association (BBA) will recognize gospel music legends at its Salute to Black Music Awards Dinner on Tuesday, June 18, at 7 p.m., at the California African American Museum.
Vicki Mack Lataillade, co-founder of GospoCentric Records will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award; Lisa Collins, publisher of L.A. Focus will be the Outstanding Gospel Publication Award recipient and Byron J. Smith, president of National Association Negro Musicians, will be honored with the Outstanding Artistic Vision Award.
According to Earl “Skip” Cooper II, BBA president/CEO, acknowledging the genre is part of the organization’s annual commemoration of Black Music Month. In the past, the nonprofit has paid tribute to industry icons such as Clarence Avant, Berry Gordy, Janet Jackson and Siedah Garrett.
Regarding this year’s event, Cooper said, “The Black Business Association honors gospel music as few events in history have been more compelling, convincing, or persuasive than gospel music. Some of the most beautiful music of all times was born out of intense grief and suffering and gospel music has provided spiritual sunshine on the darkest of days.”
Honoree Collins noted that gospel music has endured throughout the decades and maintains its popularity in contemporary times.
“Gospel will be forever relevant, no matter the times or changes in music style. People always want to be encouraged, uplifted, emotionally stirred and redeemed. Gospel music does that whatever your preference of style. It also provides a way for people to praise the Lord in their own unique voices,” she said.
Before founding L.A. Focus newspaper, Collins worked 14 years as the gospel columnist for Billboard. For the past two decades, she has published the “The Gospel Music Industry Roundup,” which is often referred to as the “bible of the gospel music industry.” In 1998, Collins established the First Ladies High Tea, which attracts 1,000+ women and 90 churches together for an afternoon of inspiration and praise.
The BBA, headquartered in Los Angeles, has been instrumental in the growth and development of thousands of African American businesses by providing innovative information and service programs. Cooper said, “We advocate for change and adherence to laws and programs. BBA assist companies and individuals move up the ladder of success.”
For tickets or sponsorship information for the awards dinner, call (323) 291-9334 or visit bbala.org.
