All of the Jackson brothers except Michael and Jermaine showed up to the BMI Urban Awards ceremony Thursday night, where the singing brothers were honored with the prestigious Icon award.
Although T-Pain’s was the big winner during the 8th annual ceremony, which took place at the Wilshire Theatre in Beverly Hills, headlines from the evening were focused on Michael Jackson’s big no-show.
Parents Katherine and Joseph Jackson were on hand, as were sisters LaToya, Rebbie and Janet, who got choked up while introducing her brothers Tito, Randy, Jackie and Marlon as they received their Icon award.
“Family is the most important commodity that all of us have,” she said. “I am so proud to be able to salute my brothers.”
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Janet Jackson and her brothers (minus Michael) at 2008 BMI Urban Awards
According to People magazine, Janet called off the names of each brother and said, “I salute you for your talent and your musical gifts you’ve given the world. I tell you that every time we speak. I’m so excited to salute you!”
While Michael didn’t make it to the event, his brothers offered their support for him and his upcoming album. “We haven’t heard it, but we’ve heard about it,” Randy told reporters. “It’s going to be great.”
Earlier in the evening, T-Pain earned the coveted Songwriter of the Year crown and shared the Producer of the Year trophy with crossover king Jonathan “J.R.” Rotem and hip-hop star Kanye West. Song of the Year honors went to Beyoncé’s “Irreplaceable,” co-written by Ne-Yo, Amund Bjøerklund and Espen Lind, while Universal Music Publishing Group secured the Publisher of the Year title.
Throughout the ceremony, the audience also enjoyed live performances of many of the award-winning songs by music’s biggest stars including Rick Ross, T-Pain, Lil’ Wayne, Ray J, Lloyd, Mario, JoJo, Keri Hilson and Yung Berg.