The annual Billboard Women in Music event, held at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California, celebrated influential women across the music industry. Hosted by Laverne Cox, the ceremony honored various artists and industry leaders with prestigious awards, acknowledging their contributions to shaping the global music landscape. Among the honorees were Doechii as Woman of the Year, aespa as Group of the Year, and Erykah Badu receiving the Icon Award. The event also featured dynamic performances from many of the awardees.
In addition to the main awards, the event recognized five top executives as Executives of the Year, highlighting their significant impact on the business side of music. Performances by artists like Ángela Aguilar, Gracie Abrams, and Megan Moroney added an electrifying touch to the evening. Viewers could access the free broadcast through VIZIO TVs or via the VIZIO mobile app, making the celebration accessible to a wide audience.
Artists Who Shaped the Stage
This segment highlights the performances and acceptance speeches from some of the most impactful artists of the night. Artists such as Megan Moroney, GloRilla, and Muni Long delivered captivating performances that resonated deeply with the audience. Their speeches provided insights into their journeys and the challenges they have overcome in the music industry.
Megan Moroney opened the evening with a spirited rendition of "Am I Okay?" Her Rulebreaker Award acceptance speech was filled with humor and gratitude. GloRilla received the Powerhouse Award, acknowledging her influence with a memorable moment referencing her hit song "TGIF." Meanwhile, Muni Long’s performance of "Superpowers" left a lasting impression, earning her the Rising Star Award presented by Honda Stage. Each artist showcased not only their musical prowess but also their ability to connect emotionally with their audience through meaningful words and performances.
Among other notable performances, Ángela Aguilar dedicated her Breakthrough Award to immigrants, emphasizing the importance of giving voice to those often unheard. Meghan Trainor accepted the Hitmaker Award with a candid speech about her songwriting process, revealing personal struggles and therapy sessions. Tyla's energetic stage presence during "On My Body" captivated viewers, while her Impact Award acceptance reflected on her journey from South Africa to international fame. These moments underscored the diversity and strength within the music community.
Industry Leaders and Visionaries
Beyond the artists, the event celebrated key figures driving the music industry forward. Five exceptional women were named Executives of the Year for their outstanding contributions. Additionally, Jennie received the Global Force Award, symbolizing her reach beyond borders. Tina Knowles accepted the Mother of the Year Award, expressing heartfelt appreciation for her family and mentees. Each acknowledgment highlighted the vital role these individuals play in fostering creativity and innovation within the industry.
Erykah Badu was honored with the Music Icon Award, introduced by R&B star Summer Walker. Badu’s acceptance speech was both humorous and insightful, sharing stories about motherhood and artistic freedom. Similarly, Doechii’s reflection on her career growth since winning the Rising Star Award two years ago demonstrated resilience and dedication. aespa closed the show with a powerful performance of "Whiplash," reinforcing their status as Group of the Year. These instances illustrated how the event serves as a platform for recognizing trailblazers who inspire future generations.