Kehlani, Mariah the Scientist, and Teyana Taylor will take center stage at Billboard Women in Music 2026, as the three artists are officially named honorees for this year’s celebration of female impact across the industry.
Billboard announced that Kehlani will receive the Impact Award, recognizing her artistry, advocacy and influence on culture and community. Over the years, the singer has built a reputation not only for her genre-blending sound but also for using her platform to speak on issues affecting her audience. The honor places her among a select group of artists whose reach extends beyond the charts.
Mariah the Scientist is set to receive the Rising Star Award, which acknowledges her rapid ascent, dynamic songwriting and distinctive voice. The singer-songwriter has steadily expanded her presence in R&B, earning attention for her emotional storytelling and growing fan base. The award highlights her trajectory as one of the genre’s emerging forces.
Teyana Taylor will be recognized with the Visionary Award for her boundless creativity and cultural impact across music, film, fashion and choreography. Taylor’s career has evolved well beyond recording, with recent strides in acting and continued influence in style and creative direction. The honor reflects her multidisciplinary reach and continued imprint on popular culture.
The 2026 Billboard Women in Music event will take place on April 29 at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles. Keke Palmer will host the evening, guiding a program that celebrates artists across genres and generations. Ella Langley, Laufey, Tate McRae, Thalia, and Zara Larsson are also slated to be honored.
Jason Lipshutz, Billboard’s co-chief content officer, said in a statement that this year’s group ranges from breakthrough voices to enduring icons, each pushing the industry forward in meaningful ways. Fellow co-chief content officer Leila Cobo added that the event honors artists shaping today’s sound while defining the culture of tomorrow, citing bold creativity, global influence, and artistic excellence as hallmarks of the 2026 class.
