Jesse Grant/Getty ImagesMotown founder Berry Gordy and singer, songwriter and producer Smokey Robinson were honored at a special event celebrating the famed label’s 60th anniversary held Monday, November 11, at the Waldorf-Astoria in Beverly Hills, California.
At the gala, organized by the Ryan Gordy Foundation, Berry was presented with the Power of Love Award by Michael Jackson‘s children Paris and Prince Jackson. Robinson was honored with the Legendary R&B Pioneer and Humanitarian Award, which he received from Lionel Richie.
The event was emceed by comic Chris Tucker and featured performances from Thelma Houston and The Supremes‘ Mary Wilson.
The awards were presented in loving memory of Ryan Gordy, Berry’s grandson, who died of leukemia in 2016 at the age of 29. Ryan’s mother, Anita Thompson, founded the Ryan Gordy Foundation in her son’s honor with a goal of helping young cancer patients by providing support for them through healthy meals, yoga, meditation, nutrition, guidance and more.
“My life’s purpose is bringing health and wellness to young adults affected by cancer,” says Thompson in a statement. “My son was loving and caring with a beautiful soul. His legacy will live on through the good works of the Ryan Gordy Foundation.”
Among the many celebrity guests in attendance at the anniversary celebration were Sean “Diddy” Combs, Sugar Ray Leonard, Eric Benet, David Foster, Katherine McPhee, Kris Jenner, Debbie Allen, Johnny Gill, Nelly, Omarion, and Bill Bellamy.
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