Legendary singer Melba Moore will receive a tribute at BLACK ENTERPRISE’s 19th Annual Legacy Awards Gala. The event kicks off the 2025 Women of Power Summit in Las Vegas from March 5-9. The gala celebrates iconic women who show resilience, strength, and excellence.
Moore’s amazing career spans over 50 years, proving her lasting power and influence. Her many groundbreaking achievements have made her a true pioneer in entertainment. This award adds to her growing list of recent honors.
Groundbreaking Career Achievements and Recent Recognition
Moore broke barriers as the first Black American woman to win a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. She earned this historic honor for her work in Purlie in 1970. This achievement opened doors for many performers who followed.
In 2023, she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, marking her enduring impact on entertainment. Former First Lady Michelle Obama also honored Moore, praising her authentic voice and powerful presence in the world.
“There is power in allowing yourself to be known and heard,” Obama wrote. “In owning your unique story, in using your authentic voice.” These words highlight Moore’s courage throughout her pioneering career.
Television Pioneer and Grammy-Nominated Performer
Moore made television history in 1972 when she hosted The Melba Moore/Clifton Davis Hour on CBS. This primetime variety show broke new ground at a time when few Black Americans had such prominent roles on major networks.
Her musical talents earned wide recognition too. In 1985, Moore was one of only three Black women nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Female Rock Performance category. This nomination came during a time when genre barriers were still firmly in place.
At 79 years old, Moore continues to perform internationally. Her endurance and passion for music remain inspiring to fans of all ages. “How do you say thank you?” she told Forbes. “And how do you inspire other people to do the same thing? It’s not all about you.”
Cultural Icon and Voice of a Movement
Many know Moore as one of the most recognizable voices performing “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” This song, often called the Negro National Anthem, holds deep cultural significance for Black Americans across generations.
Though James Weldon Johnson wrote the song, first performed by the Stanton School Choir in 1900, Moore’s version stands out. Her recording has been preserved in Congressional records for posterity, ensuring her interpretation will inspire future generations.
The BLACK ENTERPRISE Women of Power Summit provides the perfect setting to honor such a maverick. Attendees can witness this cultural icon receive her well-deserved Legacy Award by registering for the summit.
