Missy Elliott and Justin Timberlake were both at Berklee College of Music‘s graduation commencement ceremony in Boston, MA on Saturday afternoon, where the two popular recording artists and songwriters were awarded honorary doctorates in music. In doing so, Elliott became the first hip-hop artist to receive the honorary degree from the prestigious music-focused college.
Related: Jack White Given Honorary Doctorate Degree From Detroit’s Wayne State University
Both artists were seen wearing the traditional cap and gown attire during the ceremony, as Timberlake and Elliott also treated students and staff in attendance with inspiring speeches. Elliott was introduced to the podium as both an innovator and trailblazer. Throughout her six-minute speech, Elliott fought back tears of joy as she touched on overcoming the mix of ups and downs that come with navigating a successful career as a pop artist in a male-dominated industry. Fans can watch her entire speech below.
Missy Elliott Berklee College of Music Commencement Speech
[Video: Ivan Kingz]
Elliott’s career accomplishments will be honored again in a few weeks when she’s inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame as part of the exclusive organization’s class of 2019. Elliott is also scheduled to perform as one of the headliner’s for this summer’s ESSENCE Festival in New Orleans, LA the weekend of July 4th-7th.
View this post on InstagramCREATE YOUR OWN LANE!!!! Sincerely Dr. MISSY ELLIOTT🙌🏾🙌🏾@Berkleecollege👩🏾🎓 #VA #757
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[H/T Billboard]