NAACP Image Awards: Kendrick Lamar, SZA, Cardi B Among Night Two Non-Televised Winners

Hollywood Reporter

by Brande Victorian

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The NAACP Image Awards' second night honored prominent figures in music and podcasts during a virtual event on YouTube. Among the notable winners were Cardi B, who claimed three awards for outstanding artist, album (*Am I the Drama?*), and song (*ErrTime*). Entertainer of the Year nominee Kendrick Lamar also secured two wins for outstanding male artist and *luther*, his collaboration with SZA. Additionally, SZA was recognized for her work on *luther*. The ceremony highlighted a mix of established artists and rising stars. Michelle Obama’s podcast *IMO with Michelle Obama & Craig Robinson* won in both arts/entertainment and lifestyle/self-help categories, underscoring the influence of podcasting across diverse genres. The Don Lemon Show also triumphed with awards for news and society/culture podcasts, reflecting the growing importance of podcast media. This year’s awards emphasized the significance of recognizing achievements in music and podcasts, particularly within the Black community. With events spanning three nights, the NAACP Image Awards continue to celebrate excellence across entertainment while amplifying underrepresented voices. The ceremony also featured special honorees like Viola Davis and Colman Domingo, adding depth to its recognition of cultural impact. The event’s virtual format on YouTube expanded accessibility, aligning with modern audience preferences for digital content. This approach not only honors talent but also underscores the evolving landscape of entertainment media. As the awards progress, they aim to highlight innovation and diversity in storytelling

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/25/2026