The annual event of Billboard’s Women in Music was nationally televised yesterday in New York. The actual event took place on December 11, rewarding the most influential women in music this year.
The main attraction was the lady of the hour, Lady Gaga, as she gave an emotional acceptance speech for her award. This was followed up by a performance to a powerful version of “Til It Happens To You,” on piano.
In her acceptance speech, “It’s really hard sometimes for women in music. It’s like a f--ing boys club that we just can’t get into...Women provide a wisdom to music that is very unique and special. It is a perspective no one else can have because we bear life. And because we go through things no one else goes through. And because it’s right. Because we’re all equal.”
Several of the nominees performed to many notable hits, like Fifth Harmony running through a medley of songs from various artists. And the emotional acceptance speeches continued, as Missy Elliot tried holding back tears while discussing her 20 years in the music industry.
The 2015 honorees include:
Lady Gaga for Woman of the Year
Selena Gomez for Chart-Topper
Kelsea Ballerini for Rising Star
Fifth Harmony for Group of the Year
Loretta Lynn for Legend
Britanny Howard for Powerhouse
Missy Elliot for Innovator
Tori Kelly for Breakthrough
Demi Lovato for Rulebreaker
Lana Del Rey for Trailblazer