I cannot tell you how honored and humbled I am to be chosen a Black Music Awards Hall Of Fame inductee. Thank you Black Music Association and Academy for this prestigious honor. And let me also thank you for providing this platform that gives black artists the recognition that so many of us do not receive in other formats.

I started a music career many years ago, not because I was seeking awards and honors, but because of my love for jazz—the only original American art form! It was created and developed by Black people, and my desire to add to it and share it with current and future generations is the fuel that keeps me going. If after so many years of hard work on your craft your body of music starts to bring you recognition in the form of honors and awards, then that is an extreme extra blessing! So thank you again Black Music Academy. And to the fans—I am so looking forward to being reunited with you in the live venues after this pandemic is under control—because nothing unites and brings all people together like music.

Thank you and God bless.

~Bobby Lyle