Kelly Rowland received a ‘Rising Icon’ award for music accomplishments at Essence’s “Black Women In Music” gala in Los Angeles just two days before celebrating her 31st birthday.
The former Destiny’s Child member decked out in a floor length, layered, one-shoulder, burnt orange dress adorned with gold accessories and big, curly hair was recognized for being in the music business since age sixteen and for her recent Grammy Award nod for hit single ‘Motivation’ featuring Lil Wayne.
The X Factor judge who was “humbled” by the honor was supported by fellow DC member, Michelle Williams who couldn’t contain her excitement for her friend’s honor.
“We normally like to give each other our space but when Kelly told me she was being honoured, she said that I had to be here,” Michelle told MailOnline.
Beyonce Knowles, who recently made two post-baby appearances with husband Jay-Z at charity events, wasn’t in attendance, but another childhood (and ex-Destiny’s Child member) friend, Letoya Luckett, did attend the gala in a cute, short cobalt blue number.
The 30-year-old, shared the award evening with former Motown head, Sylvia Rhone, best known for the hand she had in fostering careers of Metallica, Lil Wayne, Erykah Badu, Nicki Minaj, Third Eye Blind, Yolanda Adams and Jason Mraz to name a few. Rhone, who stepped down from Motown last year to pursue other goals, received the Trailblazer prize for her pioneering work in the industry.
To close the evening out, Kelly changed into black hi-waisted hot pants, and a gold shimmering power shoulder jacket to hit the stage performing her Grammy-nominated hit ‘Motivation’ sans Lil’ Wayne. She also performed ‘Like This’ (from another album) and rapper-actress Eve joined the honoree on their previous collaboration.
Afterwards, a beaming Kelly was surprised with a plaque commemorating her one million units sold of ‘Motivation’.
Other attendees at the pre-Grammy event included actress Regina King, R&B star Ne-Yo, rapper MC Lyte, actress Holly Robinson Peete, singer Tamia , and America’s Next Top Model alumni Eva and Toccara Jones.
Happy birthday Kelly!
