Solange Knowles and Lianne La Havas honoured at Essence event

Solange Knowles and rising British musician Lianne La Havas were hailed for their contribution to the entertainment industry at the annual Essence Black Women In Music event on Wednesday (06Feb13).

Singers Kelis, Jill Scott and Maxwell, as well as actresses NeNe Leakes and Amber Riley, attended the glamorous Los Angeles event at Greystone Manor Supperclub, which was hosted by Knowles' long-time pal and 2012 honouree Kelly Rowland.

During the gala, the audience was treated to a special duet by the honourees who were also joined on stage by Earth, Wind + Fire bassist Verdine White.

Before the event, La Havas took to her Twitter.com page to share her excitement with fans, writing, "HERE I COME!! Almost at the (Essence Magazine) blackwomeninmusic event!! Can't wait to perform alongside (Solange Knowles)."

Knowles adds, "So excited and extremely humbled that (Essence Magazine) is honoring me and (Lianne La Havas) as women in music tonight. Thank you Essence!"