“The Xernona Clayton Award” recognizes individuals who, having succeeded against immense odds, herald change and prosperity to enhance and enrich the world.” This year’s recipient of this prestigious honor was Tip T.I. Harris. We all watched T.I. grow from humble and rough beginnings to his impact in music to now the ever changing and evolving man he has become. He has overcame internal and external obstacles, and has shown through his hard work that all is possible with determination and fortitude. He has created a multi-million dollar business that includes television, music, and other endeavors. In addition to his business empire, T.I. continues to inspire and motivate others through his philanthropy and even more importantly, his voice in politics and in his community speaking out against injustices in his community and the country.

As the Red Carpet began, and notable guests and celebrities started to arrive, you just felt the range of prestige and excellence in the room. Sort of that feeling of Denzel Washington playing the trumpet in “Mo Better Blues.” Do y’all remember Mo Better Blues, and how Smooth Denzel was in that movie? That was how tonight felt on the redcarpet. Everyone was smooth and regal. This was a night of celebration for some of the most influential people in Education, Music, Fashion, and Film. The hosts for the evening: Wendy Raquel Robinson and Tank came down to a barrage of flash bulbs from the photographers. She looked classic in her white gown, while Tank had on a tan colored suit. Tank is never afraid to push the fashion envelope, and though the color brown is not one that you see a lot (except on Butter colored Timberlands), it worked and he knows how to win over the crowd. Tank “fit” did its thing, that was until supreme Dapper Dan hit the redcarpet. You know how when certain people come into a room you start looking at your outfit and thinking, “Damn, I need to go back to the drawing board.” Well all of us men started rethinking our ensemble when Dapper Dan hit the redcarpet with a Gold Jacket, ascot, and Gucci Belt and Shoes. Many a fella was thinking how can I get on his level for sure. Probably my two favs or the redcarpet were Lil Mama and Ashanti. Lil Mama wore pale pink gown that was giving us Cinderella at the ball. It gave simple elegance with a hint of innocence. You heard me, I said innocence and Lil Mama in the same sentence. However, when it was time for her to throw down in her tribute to MC Lyte, Lil Mama switched it up in a B-boy minute with a Dapper Dan throwback original.  Now let’s be clear though: Ashanti just kills it at a trumpet’s fevers pitch. The Wine colored dress with the split up the leg leading to heaven was everything. Then there was the plunging v-neck and I know it had a sheer nude covering, but in the words of Teddy Riley, “It Don’t Matter.” She was regal and sensual that Denzel and Wesley (Snipes) would be competing to give her a solo right there on the redcarpet. Yet, her laugh is the best part of it all because you know “That’s Ashanti.” However, the highlight for me during the night had to have been Mr. Lou Gossett Jr. His presence just commands such gratitude and respect. He summed up the energy of the night in the most eloquent way, when asked “What does a night like this mean and how important is events like this?” His reply reminded us how far we have come, and how much we have achieved, but that we must continue to shine light on those who are working tirelessly for the betterment of African Americans. It is important to recognize the achievements of people so that it inspires and motivates others.

“Thus, it is that sounding off of Trumpet that turns hope into action, and these examples of Black Excellence reinforces the sweet sound of progress.”

Images by Mike Ware of M&M Photography