Sylvia Rhone is set to receive one of the highest honors of the night at the BET Awards 2026.

The legendary music executive has been named the recipient of the prestigious Ultimate Icon Award, recognizing her groundbreaking contributions to the music business and her enduring influence on generations of artists and executives alike.

Few figures have shaped the modern music landscape quite like Rhone, whose career spans decades and countless chart-topping success stories.

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Moments ago, organizers announced that Rhone will be honored during the June 28 ceremony at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater.

The executive made history as the first Black woman to lead a major record company owned by a Fortune 500 corporation.

That’s not all.

Across leadership roles at labels including Atlantic, Elektra, EastWest, and Motown, she played a pivotal role in the careers of artists such as Missy Elliott, Lil Wayne, Brandy, Erykah Badu, Busta Rhymes, Anita Baker, and many more.

Most recently, Rhone served as CEO of Epic Records, helping steer the label through one of its strongest runs while overseeing a roster that included Travis Scott, Future, Tyla, Giveon, and 21 Savage.

Connie Orlando, EVP & Head of Programming, BET, said in a statement:

“Sylvia Rhone’s influence extends far beyond the music business and into the culture itself. She championed artists and executives, shattered ceilings that had never been broken, and redefined what leadership looks like for women and people of color in every boardroom that followed. Her legacy is heard in the music, seen in the careers she built, and felt in the generation of leaders walking the path she cleared. We are proud to honor Sylvia Rhone with the Ultimate Icon Award at the ‘BET Awards’ 2026.”

The BET Awards 2026, hosted by Druski, airs live on June 28.

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