Music superstar Pharrell Williams has delivered a powerful prayer for compassion towards immigrants during a prestigious pre-Grammy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles. The acclaimed musician and producer used his platform at the Recording Academy's Black Music Collective event to issue a heartfelt appeal to American political leaders.
A Prayer for Compassion on the Pre-Grammy Stage
Speaking at the Fairmont Century Plaza ballroom just days before the Grammy Awards, Williams received the Dr Dre Global Impact Award and transformed the moment into a platform for social advocacy. "I want to pray for the leaders of this nation and the powers that be," Williams declared to an attentive audience. "I'm praying that they find it in their hearts some empathy, some grace and, most importantly, some mercy for these people who may not have been born in this country, but love it just as much."
The musician's remarks were met with enthusiastic applause from industry peers and guests gathered for the fourth annual celebration of Black music's cultural influence. Williams emphasised that immigrants' presence in America reflects their belief in the nation's promise, stating: "Trust me, they would not be here if they didn't believe us when we keep saying that this is the greatest nation on the planet. So please.... empathy, grace and mercy."
Honouring Musical Icons and Their Impact
The evening celebrated three influential figures whose work extends beyond musical achievement. Alongside Williams receiving the Dr Dre Global Impact Award, R&B legend Brandy and gospel pioneer Kirk Franklin were honoured with Black Music Icon Awards.
Justin Timberlake presented Williams with his award following a medley performance of their collaborative hits including 'Rock Your Body' and 'Happy'. Timberlake praised his long-time collaborator as "one of one" and expressed deep admiration for both his artistry and character.
Tyler, the Creator offered one of the evening's most moving tributes, describing Williams as his "North Star" and highlighting his mentorship: "Every door he goes in, he comes back out, grabs people, gives them the key."
Music as a Universal Key
In his acceptance speech, Williams reflected on music's transformative power in his own life, describing it as a "skeleton key" that opens opportunities. "A good skeleton key opens all doors, not just exclusive ones," he explained. "Music opened the doors to the things that matter the most in my life."
Dr Dre, whose name graces the award presented to Williams, highlighted the honoree's extensive influence across multiple creative fields and consistent advocacy for social change. "For this, I am so proud to have my name on an award now shared by him," Dre remarked.
Emotional Moments and Long-Overdue Recognition
The ceremony featured several poignant moments, including Brandy being visibly moved as artists Coco Jones, FLO, and Kehlani performed renditions of her songs before she took the stage to sing 'Almost Doesn't Count'. The R&B icon expressed humility at receiving the Black Music Icon Award, stating she never imagined her name merging with the word 'icon'.
Kirk Franklin reflected on his challenging journey from adoption and homelessness to becoming a 20-time Grammy winner, emphasising his commitment to faith as a message of love rather than division.
In a surprise gesture, Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason jr. presented rapper Eve with a long-overdue Grammy for her contributions to The Roots' 2000 hit 'You Got Me'. Despite rapping on the track, Eve had not been credited when the song originally won best rap performance over two decades ago. An emotional Eve accepted the award to a standing ovation, dedicating it to her younger self from Philadelphia.
Championing Black Creativity and Social Impact
The Black Music Collective, which has previously honoured figures including Alicia Keys, JAY-Z, Missy Elliott, John Legend, and Mariah Carey, continues to champion Black creators while supporting scholarships and initiatives for emerging talent.
Amidst the evening's celebrations and performances, Williams' prayer for immigrant compassion resonated as a powerful reminder of artists' potential for social impact. "Impact comes in many forms," Williams concluded. "Sometimes global, sometimes local, sometimes cultural and sometimes deeply personal." His words underscored how cultural platforms can amplify messages of empathy and human connection beyond entertainment alone.
