Mariah Carey, Kelly Rowland, & Common Celebrate Legends at BET Honors

BET recognized the achievements of legends in the fields of music, literature, entertainment, media, service, and education at its 5th Annual BET Honors. Mariah Carey, Stevie Wonder, Maya Angelou, and Spike Lee were among the honorees at Saturday’s taping at Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C. The star-studded evening featured musical performances and touching tributes.

L.A. Reid bestowed praise on Mariah Carey before Patti LaBelle left the diva in tears while performing her classic ballad “Hero.” Nick Cannon honored his wife with an emotional speech as he held their son Moroccan (his sister Monroe was backstage feeling camera shy). A grateful Mariah thanked everyone for their love and support as she accepted her award.

With her idol in the front row, Kelly Rowland joined Raekwon for a cover of MC’s ODB-assisted hit “Fantasy.” “I love and respect her so much,” said Kelly. “I have to look at her forehead when I’m singing and not her eyes ’cause I know I’m gonna break out in tears.”

Common, Jennifer Hudson, Aretha Franklin, Queen Latifah, Willow Smith, Jill Scott, and First Lady Michelle Obama were also on hand to salute the honorees. The special will air during Black History Month on February 13.