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Ella Mai sweeps 2018 Soul Train Awards

Free Press wire reports | 11/29/2018, 6 a.m.
British singer Ella Mai won big at the 2018 Soul Train Awards, dominating in three categories during Sunday night’s telecast ...
Ella Mai

British singer Ella Mai won big at the 2018 Soul Train Awards, dominating in three categories during Sunday night’s telecast and taking honors for best R&B/soul female artist, and song of the year and the Ashford and Simpson Songwriter’s Award for “Boo’d Up.”

Bruno Mars, Daniel Caesar and H.E.R. followed closely with two awards each.

Mr. Caesar and H.E.R. shared the honor of best collaboration performance for their hit duet, “Best Part,” and awards for best new artist and album/mixtape of the year, respectfully.

Mr. Mars further solidified his star power, taking home two of the night’s most coveted awards for the second year in a row — best R&B/soul male artist and video of the year for “Finesse” remix, featuring Cardi B.

BET Presents: 2018 Soul Train Awards celebrated the best in soul, R&B and hip- hop by highlighting both living legends and breakout stars with unrivaled musical moments and show-stopping performances.

The ceremony was hosted by the nostalgic, best friend duo of Tisha Campbell and Tichina Arnold, stars of the 1990s television sitcom “Martin.” They brought their chemistry to the stage as the show’s opening musical acts.

Honoring artists across 12 categories, the Soul Train Awards also recognized Drake (Rhythm & Beats Award), Ciara (Best Dance Performance), Ledisi (Soul Train Certified) and Lecrae (Best Gospel/Inspirational Award) for their special contributions to the genre.

The ceremony also welcomed a slew of talented R&B musicians starting with a nostalgic performance by ’90s favorite trio Bell Biv DeVoe, and singers Jon B. and Donell Jones, who kept the crowd crooning with soulful serenades of their top hits.

Jacquees took the soul train on a route to the new school with his rendition of “B.E.D” and a performance of his 2018 record “You.”

Sultry songstress Erykah Badu shut down the stage after accepting the Legend Award with a medley of her iconic, timeless songs as the arena stood and swayed along in awe.

Additional poignant performers included gospel artist Koryn Hawthorne and newcomers Ari Lennox and Cautious Clay.

After graciously accepting the Lady of Soul Award, Faith Evans brought down the house with a lively performance of her chart-topping hits, her powerful voice bringing the entire crowd to its feet.

In addition to electrifying performances, the awards show brought together an array of musical talents for the fourth annual  “Soul Cypher,” with Ms. Badu in the conductor’s seat as DJ, while  Kelly Price, BJ The Chicago Kid, Queen Naija, Robert Glasper and Thundercat drove it home with their vocals.