Pharrell Williams Says It’s Time: Brandy Urged to Start a Vocal Academy After Being Crowned a “Black Music Icon” [Video]

The Recording Academy Honors presented by The Black Music Collective turned into a masterclass in mutual respect this week as the industry gathered at the Fairmont Century Plaza to celebrate Black excellence ahead of the 2026 Grammys. The night’s most poignant moment occurred when Pharrell Williams took the stage to honor Brandy, who was being recognized with the prestigious Black Music Icon Award. Pharrell didn’t just praise her legacy; he challenged her to secure the future of R&B by opening her own vocal school to pass down her legendary technical skill.

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The “Happy” mogul used a deeply spiritual metaphor to describe Brandy’s talent, emphasizing that her skill set is a rare gift that shouldn’t be kept to herself.

“I’ve also got to say, Brandy, just open a school for vocals. Open the school? Yeah. The anointing that you have. It’s an anointing,” Pharrell urged the “Vocal Bible.” He shared a family story to drive the point home, “My uncle gave me this oil from my grandmother, and they would pour other oil in it until I extended it. Extend your oil into a school. Come on, man! Speak! Extend your oil.”

Brandy, who was serenaded by the likes of Coco Jones, FLO, and Kehlani before performing a rendition of “Almost Doesn’t Count,” appeared visibly moved by the high distinction.

In her acceptance speech, she admitted, “Never did I imagine my name and the word ‘icon’ to ever merge. I’m humbly just a vessel chosen to use the gift to inspire, touch, and change a life.”

The event, which also honored Pharrell himself with the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award and Kirk Franklin as a Black Music Icon, served as a reminder of the massive cultural footprint Brandy has left over the last three decades.

By calling for her to “extend her oil,” Pharrell highlighted the fact that Brandy isn’t just a singer; she is a technical blueprint for the entire genre.

For fans and aspiring vocalists, the idea of a formal school run by the icon herself would be a dream come true, ensuring the art of the perfect vocal run lives on for generations to come.