R&B singer Alicia Keys will be recognized among the top achievers in entertainment, business and politics awarded at the first ever BET Honors gala.

Hosted by Cedric The Entertainer, the BET Honors will be taped on January 12 at Washington, D.C.'s Warner Theatre and air on BET February 22 as part of the network's Black History Month programming.

In addition to Keys, other honorees include Tyra Banks, Janice Bryant Howroyd, Richard Parsons, Maxine Waters and Cornel West.

"We are thrilled to pay tribute to the thinkers, trailblazers and trendsetters whose accomplishments serve as inspirations for current and future generations," Debra Lee, chairman and CEO of BET Networks said via statement. "Each of these remarkable individuals has made significant contributions to the Black community and American culture overall, and BET Networks is proud to recognize them through this very special, new tentpole event."

Stevie Wonder, John Legend, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott and Wyclef Jean are also scheduled to appear as part of the show. Alicia Keys will receive the Entertainment Award.