Inside the Billboard Women in Music 2024 event

Billboard Women in Music is an annual awards show that gives somewhat little bit of the whole lot: performances of lovely ballads and dynamic singles, stunning hairstyles and beautiful gowns, tributes to music legends and emerging artists, and rather more. Most importantly, the ceremony honored women in the music industry who’re breaking barriers, and this 12 months was no different.

Tracee’s hair is spectacular

Tracee Ellis Ross is a hair care company. The CEO and her passion for hair were showcased at the Billboard Women in Music Awards. To kick off the show, the actress-hostess sported an oversized, textured hairdo and positively showed off her unique look.

“I feel at home in this environment. And by ‘at home’ I mean on stage with the elusive audience,” she added jokingly. “Since I have you here – in bondage – I thought maybe you could take a moment while I’m walking to just look at my hair. Not that you could miss it. Please accept it in all its glory. Is it great? Is it great?” The audience was very much into the joke, laughing loudly and applauding enthusiastically. We love Tracee Ellis Ross’ moment!

On my mom

Victoria Monét’s 2024 is off to a gorgeous start. The 34-year-old singer is on top of the world with three Grammy wins, a chart-topping single, a gorgeous baby daughter and a brand new Billboard Women in Music Rising Star trophy. Just when it gave the impression of things couldn’t get any higher for Monét, her mother surprised her with the sweetest speech during Wednesday’s show.

Monét – and the audience – had no concept that her mom, L’Tanya Chestang Cubit, was going to present her with a Billboard award, and the moment was too cute. The singer ran across the stage to present her mother a giant hug after Cubit gushed about how proud she was of her daughter.

“I remember when you were a little girl and you were embarrassed to tell the teacher you didn’t have a seat,” Cubit said, holding Monét’s hand. “So you sat along with your knees bent and your legs crossed and pretended you had a chair. Baby girl, not only do you might have a seat at the table, you might have it front and center. Awww!

Tems’ biggest fan

Speaking of surprises, the Billboard audience was shocked when Savannah James, entrepreneur and wife of NBA icon LeBron James, appeared on stage at the end of the show. Savannah, one in every of Tems’ biggest fans, was there to present the Nigerian singer with the 2024 Breakthrough Award. The mother of three had not been listed as a presenter before, and fans were delighted to see Savannah in all her glory.

Savannah’s performance was followed by a gorgeous performance by Tems, which was rewarded with thunderous applause. “Beyond the awards and collaborations,” said the special special guest, “it all comes down to that voice – rich, resonant, undeniable.” We couldn’t agree more with Savannah!

Keep it spicy

Ice Spice was probably the biggest artist in the room, judging by the audience’s response at any time when she appeared on screen or on stage. The 24-year-old rapper received cheers, applause, and fans shouting “I love you, Ice Spice!” as soon as they caught a glimpse of her signature orange-red hair and distinctive style. Unfortunately, Ice Spice was one in every of the honorees who didn’t perform at the Billboard Women in Music gala, but she accepted her honor in the racy style everyone knows and love.

“My corset is so tight I can barely breathe,” she said. “I would like to thank my mom for being the best woman in the world. Greetings to all women in the Bronx. Greetings to all women in New York. Shout out to all the women in this constructing – you all look very nice. Thank you very much.