Rhone: Protect Black Creativity from Tech Disruption

At the 2026 BET Awards, held at the Peacock Theater, music executive Sylvia Rhone was celebrated with the Ultimate Icon award. She used her acceptance speech to highlight the critical need for protecting creativity, especially as technology continues to reshape the music industry. Rhone emphasized the immense power of Black creativity in shaping global culture and art.

Rhone passionately advocated for active participation in the technological advancements affecting music. She stated, "We make the algorithm, the algorithm doesn't make us," underscoring the importance of human artistry. The executive stressed that musicians must be honored and creators must be compensated.

She concluded her remarks by calling for the celebration of music as a true art form. Rhone expressed hope that this ensures the next generation of artists will have the opportunities needed to create impactful songs that can change the world.