The 2026 NAACP Image Awards recently concluded its second night of virtual celebrations, revealing a new cohort of winners in its non-televised music and podcast categories. Prominent artists such as Cardi B, Kendrick Lamar, and SZA were among those recognized, alongside public figures like Michelle Obama and Don Lemon, highlighting a diverse range of talent celebrated for their contributions. The event, hosted by Angel “ThatChickAngel” Laketa Moore and Khleo Thomas, showcased a variety of achievements across different artistic and informational platforms, building anticipation for the upcoming televised ceremony.
Cardi B emerged as a significant winner during the awards presentation, securing three accolades. She was honored as the outstanding artist, and her latest album, 'Am I the Drama?', received recognition as the outstanding album. Additionally, her track “ErrTime” was celebrated as the outstanding hip-hop/rap song. Kendrick Lamar, a nominee for Entertainer of the Year, also had a successful evening, earning two awards. He was named outstanding male artist, and his collaboration with SZA, 'luther', won for outstanding music video/visual album. Lamar's winning streak began even earlier, as he previously received an award on Monday for outstanding short-form series or special for his Apple Music Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show.
Michelle Obama expanded her impressive collection of honors by winning two additional awards for 'IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson'. These included outstanding podcast in the arts, sports, and entertainment category, as well as outstanding podcast in lifestyle/self-help. Earlier in the week, Obama was also recognized for her literary work, receiving an award for outstanding literary work – biography/autobiography for 'The Look'. The 'Don Lemon Show' also garnered two awards, triumphing in the outstanding podcast categories for news and information, and society and culture.
The current non-televised segments of the 57th NAACP Image Awards are being broadcast virtually on the NAACP Image Awards’ YouTube channel. This multi-day event will continue with more non-televised awards announced on Wednesday. Special recognitions are also planned, with Rev. Dr. Jamal-Harrison Bryant set to receive the Mildred Bond Roxborough Social Justice Impact Award on Thursday during the Creative Honors. A$AP Rocky will be presented with the Vanguard Award at the NAACP Image Awards Reception & Fashion Show on Friday night. The main televised ceremony, hosted by comedian Deon Cole, will take place live on Saturday, February 28, broadcasting on BET and CBS from the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. Distinguished honorees at this event will include Viola Davis, who will receive the Chairman’s Award, and Colman Domingo, who will be honored with the President’s Award.
The second night of the NAACP Image Awards showcased significant achievements in music and podcasting, with several artists and public figures earning top honors. Cardi B, Kendrick Lamar, and SZA led the music categories, demonstrating their continued influence and artistic excellence. Michelle Obama and Don Lemon were celebrated for their impactful podcast contributions, underscoring the growing importance of audio platforms in sharing stories and perspectives. These early awards set a dynamic tone for the remainder of the week's celebrations, building excitement for the upcoming televised ceremony and further acknowledging the diverse talent within the Black community.