Interscope’s Nicole Wyskoarko Honored at BMAC Gala
At the sixth annual BMAC Gala in Beverly Hills, Interscope’s Nicole Wyskoarko was awarded the Sylvia Rhone Visionary Award. The event also honored Patti LaBelle, Common, Public Enemy and industry leaders, with performances and speeches that highlighted the power of black music to drive social chang…
By Felo News Desk · Published
The Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) hosted its sixth annual gala on September 24 at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, drawing a star‑studded crowd of musicians, executives and activists. The evening celebrated the cultural impact of black music while raising funds for BMAC’s community programs.
Honoring Visionaries and Icons
Interscope Geffen A&M president Nicole Wyskoarko was presented with the BMAC Sylvia Rhone Visionary Award by the award’s namesake, legendary music executive Sylvia Rhone. The honor recognized Wyskoarko’s leadership in curating urban A&R talent and her commitment to amplifying black voices in the industry.
Common received the BMAC Harry Belafonte Change Agent Award, a tribute to his lifelong activism and music that has inspired generations. The award was presented by his mother, Dr. Mahlia Hines, who reflected on the mentor‑like influence of Belafonte on the rapper’s career.
Patti LaBelle was named the BMAC Icon Award recipient, with director Lee Daniels presenting the honor. LaBelle’s career, spanning six decades, has made her a symbol of resilience and artistry in the black community.
Public Enemy earned the BMAC Social Impact Award, presented by rapper Big Daddy Kane. The duo’s politically charged lyrics and community outreach have positioned them as pioneers in using music for social justice.
EMPIRE president Tina Davis received the BMAC Clarence Avant Trailblazer Award, presented by singer Montell Jordan, highlighting her role in redefining independent music distribution.
Celebration of Community and Culture
The gala also featured the BMAC 365 Award, presented to a group of Universal Music Group’s Global Impact Team members, and the BMAC Founders Award, honoring founders of THE·TEAM. These recognitions underscored the collaborative spirit that drives the black music industry.
Performances punctuated the night, with Chanté Moore and Le’Andria Johnson delivering a tribute to LaBelle’s classic hits. Big Daddy Kane and MAJOR also performed, adding high‑energy moments to the program.
Key Messages and Future Directions
CEO and President Willie “Prophet” Stiggers opened the event with remarks that emphasized the role of black music as a vehicle for storytelling, resistance, and cultural preservation. He stated, “Black music has always been more than music. It has been how we told our story when others tried to write it for us.”
Stiggers highlighted BMAC’s ongoing initiatives, including the BMAC x America250 program, Music Maker grants, Music Accelerator programs, and the BMAC Restore & Rebuild LA Program. The gala’s proceeds will support these projects, which aim to nurture emerging talent and strengthen community infrastructure.
In addition to the gala, BMAC and WME hosted the BMAC x America250 Voice of Tomorrow celebration the previous evening, featuring a panel discussion and performances by DJ Stussy, The Reasn, RAHBI, and Anzie Blue. The event showcased the next generation of black artists poised to shape the future of music and activism.
As the night drew to a close, Chuck D of Public Enemy delivered a powerful message about collective action, urging attendees to transform individual efforts into a united movement. The gala ended with a resounding “Fight the Power” chant, echoing the legacy of black protest music.
Looking Ahead
While the gala celebrated past achievements, it also set the stage for continued advocacy and empowerment. BMAC plans to expand its grant programs, increase artist‑in‑residence opportunities, and deepen partnerships with live‑event promoters like Live Nation.
Future BMAC events will likely focus on bridging gaps between industry leadership and grassroots activism, ensuring that black music remains a catalyst for social change. The organization’s commitment to fostering inclusive spaces for artists and community members remains central to its mission.
Overall, the sixth BMAC Gala served as both a tribute to influential figures and a rallying call for ongoing solidarity within the black music community.
Key facts
- Nicole Wyskoarko honored with Sylvia Rhone Visionary Award
- Common received Harry Belafonte Change Agent Award
- Public Enemy awarded for social impact
- BMAC’s initiatives fund music education and community programs
- The event highlighted the power of collective action in music
Why it matters
The gala spotlights how black music continues to shape cultural narratives and drive social progress, while supporting emerging artists and community initiatives.
Frequently asked questions
What is the BMAC Sylvia Rhone Visionary Award?
It recognizes leaders in the music industry who champion black artists and drive innovation in urban A&R.
How does BMAC support emerging artists?
Through grants, accelerator programs, and partnerships with major promoters to provide resources and exposure.
What were the main themes of the gala?
Pride, perseverance, purpose, and the role of black music in storytelling and activism.
Sources
- [1] billboard.com — originally reported as “Interscope’s Nicole Wyskoarko & Common Among Black Music Action Coalition Gala Honorees”
