Lauryn Hill, Timbaland Honored at ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Awards
The stars came out to salute Ms. Lauryn Hill at ASCAP’s 28th annual Rhythm & Soul Music Awards on Thursday at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills. During the invitation-only event, which was held during BET Awards week, the reclusive superstar was presented with the ASCAP Golden Note Award, which is presented to songwriters, composers, and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones. Past recipients include Pharrell Williams, Dr. Dre, and Jay Z.
After thanking ASCAP and her family, Hill thrilled with a five-song medley including “Conformed to Love,” “I Gotta Find Peace of Mind,” “Lost Ones,” and “Ex-Factor.” The crowd was on its feet as she capped it off with her Grammy-winning hit “Doo Wop (That Thing).”
Prior to Ms. Hill, D.R.A.M. performed his buzzing single and Beyoncé favorite “Cha Cha,” while Jazmine Sullivan gave a powerful performance of her ballad “Forever Don’t Last.” Migos also served up their popular hit “Handsome and Wealthy,” and gospel star Smokie Norful opened with “No Greater Love.”
Songwriter of the Year honors went to Jay Z and Timbaland. The super-producer received a video tribute from his friends including Missy Elliott and the cast of “Empire.”
“Timbaland has always changed music over and over and over again,” said Missy. “I’ve been knowing Tim since high school. He’s always been a genius.”
Other honorees included Sevyn Streeter, Jeremih, Michelle Williams, K. Michelle, Migos, and BJ the Chicago Kid.