CHICAGO, IL – August 20, 2026 – Independent music history-maker and record-breaking Billboard chart-topper Brandy Moss-Scott is set to be honored with the prestigious Jimmy Payton Visionary Award at the Dream Awards Chicago 2026. This landmark ceremony, presented by Harrison Entertainment, will take place on November 14, 2026, at the newly remodeled DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center.

The evening will be a monumental gathering of industry titans, hosted by NBC 5 Chicago’s Art Norman, and will feature Dream Awards founder Mable Buckner. The highlight of the presentation will feature legendary music icon Gene Chandler, the Duke of Earl—universally celebrated for his 1962 US chart-topping, Grammy Hall of Fame anthem of the same name—appearing exclusively to present the award to Brandy Moss-Scott.

A Historic Milestone in Music History

Brandy Moss-Scott solidified her legendary status in the global music industry when her hit single, “I Don’t Really Know” (from her acclaimed CD Fresh), shattered records. She made history by earning a Guinness World Record as the first independent artist ever in history on Billboard magazine and Billboard charts to debut at number one on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Sales Chart, single-handedly blazing the trail for independent music distribution worldwide and shattering industry norms. Her groundbreaking success redefined what independent record labels could achieve in mainstream media, earning her a 2003 Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Award nomination and a permanent place in music history.

The Dream Awards: Honoring Legends and Inspiring Future Generations

Established by visionary founder Mable Buckner, the Dream Awards are premier accolades dedicated to honoring extraordinary, transcendent achievements by trailblazing icons in entertainment, arts, and community leadership. The event does more than celebrate the past; it supports the future by benefiting The Chicago Academy for the Arts, a nationally recognized arts high school that prepares young artists for professional careers. By God bringing together legendary pioneers like Gene Chandler, the Duke of Earl, exclusively to present to contemporary trailblazers like Brandy Moss-Scott, the platform elevates the rich heritage of music history while cementing the enduring legacy of modern visionaries.

Event Details:

– Who: Honoree Brandy Moss-Scott, presented exclusively by legendary music icon Gene Chandler, the Duke of Earl, alongside Dream Awards founder Mable Buckner

– What: Dream Awards Chicago 2026 Presentation

– When: November 14, 2026 (Red carpet and VIP reception at 5:30 p.m.; ceremony at 7 p.m.)

– Where: DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, 740 E. 56th Place, Chicago, IL

For more information regarding press credentials, interview requests, or event attendance, please contact the media relations representative below.

Sheena Marie

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 323-331-5652

Website: Sheenamarie.com

About Heavenly Tunes

Heavenly Tunes is an independent music company owned by Brandy Moss-Scott and founded in 2002. The company publishes and supports Brandy’s music while providing a platform for her independent artistic work. Its mission is to promote independent music, creative excellence, and opportunities for artists to build lasting careers.

Media Contact
Company Name: Sheena Marie Marketing
Contact Person: Sheena Marie
Email: Send Email
Country: United States
Website: http://sheenamarie.com