Entertainment representing African-American culture is full of figures that had a substantial impact on the American identity. We don't envy those at BET who have to pick who gets honored at the network's annual show, the BET Honors. This year's organizers seem to have picked a pretty solid group however.
At the top of the list, at least in terms of influence and recognizability, is Aretha Franklin. The singer was blessed with a voice both big and unique. We're blessed that she put it to good use, releasing immortal hits such as "Respect" and "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" and "Think." Rolling Stone ranked her the greatest vocalist of all time, and it's hard to argue against.
Despite the obvious cultural impact of Franklin, it's arguable that fellow honoree Berry Gordy is even more relevant than she. Gordy was the founder and owner of the Motown label, the imprint that secured Detroit's place in music history and provided the world with Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, Stevie Wonder and Smokey Robinson among others. Franklin was never represented by Motown, but it's tough to see her style of music becoming as popular as it did without Berry and his label.
Our parents may be less convinced of Ice Cube's worthiness of honors, but the emcee had a major impact on the history of hip-hop. He was the most talented member of N.W.A. when it came to handling that microphone, however he did his best work on solo albums such as Amerikkka's Most Wanted and Death Certificate.
Other, less musical honorees will include American Express CEO Ken Chenault and photographer Carrie Mae Weems.
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