Janelle Monáe to Receive the ‘Spirit of Soul’ Award at “Soul Train Awards” 2023

BET, the leading entertainment network for Black culture, has announced that Grammy®-nominated global superstar Janelle Monáe will be honored with the prestigious ‘Spirit of Soul’ award at this year’s “Soul Train Awards.” This marks a significant moment for the award show as it renames its iconic ‘Lady of Soul’ category to recognize the diversity and inclusivity embodied by Monáe.

Janelle Monáe is a true force to be reckoned with in the realms of music, film, fashion, and advocacy. Known for pushing boundaries and defying stereotypes, Monáe has become a champion for the LGBTQIA+ community and an advocate for mental health awareness. Through their chart-topping music and captivating on-screen roles, Monáe has solidified their status as an influential figure in the entertainment industry.

“We are thrilled to honor Janelle’s talents on soul music’s biggest stage, ‘Soul Train Awards’,” expressed Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET. “Janelle’s captivating sound is as multifaceted as their many other talents within film, business, and social impact. BET is where Black Pride lives onscreen. We look forward to honoring this dynamic individual with the newly named ‘Spirit of Soul’ award as we continue to create inclusive spaces for diverse voices to be seen, heard, and celebrated.”

To celebrate Janelle Monáe’s achievements, BET Soul will dedicate a full hour to showcase the artist’s collection of music videos. Fans can tune in to watch these bold and stunning visuals tomorrow, 11/17 at 11 AM and 7 PM ET (check local listings).

The “Soul Train Awards” 2023, which will be taped in Los Angeles, CA, promises an exciting lineup of electrifying performances. Participating artists include BJ The Chicago Kid, Coco Jones, Dante Bowe, Fridayy, Keke Palmer, Muni Long, and SWV. Summer Walker, SZA, and Usher lead the nominations with a historic three-way tie of nine nods each.

The official nominees for “Soul Train Awards” 2023 were selected by a voting academy comprising esteemed music industry insiders, performers, and presenters. For the complete list of nominees, visit here.

Connie Orlando, EVP, of Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy, will oversee the annual show and executive produce for BET. Joining her as executive producers are Jamal Noisette, Executive Producer, VP, of Specials & Music Programming, and Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment.

Jeannae Rouzan-Clay and Dionne Harmon from Jesse Collins Entertainment will also serve as executive producers for “Soul Train Awards” 2023.

The “Soul Train Awards” is an annual event dedicated to showcasing the impact of Soul Train on music and dance, from the ’70s to the present day. It serves as a platform to celebrate Black culture and entertainment, highlighting the individuals who have shaped and continue to shape the industry.

Don’t miss the premiere of “Soul Train Awards” 2023 hosted by the multitalented actress, singer, and entrepreneur Keke Palmer.

The show airs on Sunday, November 26 at 8 PM ET/PT on BET and BET Her, promising a night filled with special moments, electrifying performances, and appearances by some of the brightest stars in Black culture and entertainment.