Pepper MaShay to Kick Off Hollywood's Diversity News Magazine Awards 2026

LOS ANGELES - June 17, 2026 - PRLog -- The Diversity News Magazine Awards 2026 proudly announces that internationally acclaimed recording artist and dance music icon Pepper MaShay, widely known as the "International Dance Diva," will headline the opening live performance at its inaugural celebration on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at the Barnsdall Gallery Theatre, 4800 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, California.

This red-carpet event will bring together leaders from entertainment, media, fashion, business, journalism, and community service for an evening dedicated to honoring excellence, diversity, leadership, and cultural impact. Pepper MaShay's live performance will open the ceremony, setting a powerful tone for the night's awards and celebrations.

With a career spanning more than four decades, Pepper MaShay has earned international acclaim for her powerful vocals and dynamic presence across soul, R&B, gospel, pop, blues, jazz, and dance music. She began her career in Los Angeles as a professional session and background vocalist, contributing to projects associated with legendary artists including Whitney Houston, Cher, Celine Dion, Tina Turner, Mick Jagger, Ray Charles, and Michael Bolton.

In the 1990s, she rose to global prominence under the stage name Pepper MaShay, becoming one of the defining voices of house and dance music. Her signature songs, including "Something to Feel," "Happiness," and "Step Into My Life," became club anthems and continue to resonate on dance floors worldwide.

Her collaboration on "Dive in the Pool" with Barry Harris gained international recognition after being featured in the television series Queer as Folk, solidifying its status as a cultural anthem within LGBTQ+ and dance communities.

In addition to her dance music success, she performs under the name Sista Jean, showcasing her versatility through blues, jazz, gospel, and soul performances that reflect her musical roots.

The Diversity News Magazine Awards will feature a full evening of programming, including a red-carpet experience with media coverage, live entertainment, fashion showcases, and awards presentations honoring excellence in media, entertainment, arts, fashion, business, leadership, and community service.

Tickets Now Available – Limited Seating
Organizers encourage guests to secure tickets early due to limited seating and high demand for this one-night-only Hollywood celebration.

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1st-annual-diversity-news-magazine-awards-tickets-1990365937097
Nomination Deadline: July 1, 2026

About Diversity News Magazine Awards
The Diversity News Magazine Awards recognizes individuals and organizations advancing excellence, innovation, leadership, and diversity across multiple industries. The program celebrates both emerging and established voices making a positive impact locally, nationally, and globally.
Website: https://diversitynewsmagazineawards.com