ATLANTA — Editor's note: The video above is from a previous celebration honoring Usher in Atlanta following his Super Bowl performance.
Atlanta music icon Usher will receive a Lifetime Achievement BET Award next month.
The award recognizes special achievements and distinguished public service. Previous recipients have included the likes of Whitney Houston, Prince, Queen Latifah, Anita Baker, Mary J. Blige, Samuel L. Jackson, Lionel Richie, New Edition, and Busta Rhymes.
“The relationship between BET and USHER spans decades, from his multiple appearances on '106 & Park' to most recently winning the Entertainer of the Year trophy at the 55th NAACP Image Awards,” said Connie Orlando, BET EVP, Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy. "From his chart-topping hits, electrifying performances, and unforgettable vocals to his signature moves and sound, USHER continues to stand on culture, setting new standards for the music industry and Black Excellence. We look forward to creating an amazing lineup to pay tribute to our global icon.”
The BET Awards will air on June 30 at 8 p.m.
In addition, The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers announced on Thursday that Usher will receive its Voice of the Culture Award. They will honor him at ASCAP’s Rhythm & Soul Music Songwriters and Publishers event on June 27.
ASCAP presents the honor Usher is receiving to members who have had a major influence on music and culture.
“Artistic development is a lifelong journey of experimentation that requires risk for reward, embracing unknowns, trusting your intuition, and believing in your creative vision and God-given talent,” Usher said in a statement.
The R&B superstar is an eight-time Grammy winner who recently ended a two-year Las Vegas residency, “Usher: My Way” at the Park MGM. In February, he released his first solo album in eight years. He will kick off a 24-city U.S. tour titled “Past Present Future” in August.
Usher’s Super Bowl halftime performance drew acclaim and included guest appearances by such stars as Alicia Keys, H.E.R., Jermaine Dupri, Lil Jon and Ludacris. His album “Confessions” has sold over 10 million units in the U.S., ranking it among one of the best-selling music projects of all time. It launched No. 1 hits such as “Yeah!” with Ludacris and Lil Jon, “Burn,” and “Confessions Part II.”
“It means the world to me that my peers, this community of passionate and distinguished songwriters, composers, and authors are inspired by my execution of the craft,” Usher added.