Keke Palmer to Host Billboard's Women in Music Ceremony

The 2026 event will take place on April 29 at the Hollywood Palladium.

Mar. 1, 2026 at 7:31pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Keke Palmer has been announced as the host for the 2026 Billboard Women in Music ceremony, which will honor artists who are shaping the sound of today and charting what's to come. The event is set for April 29 at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles.

Why it matters

Keke Palmer is a multifaceted entertainer who embodies the spirit of the Billboard Women in Music event, which celebrates female artists and their impact on the music industry. Her hosting role highlights her growing influence and recognition across entertainment and culture.

The details

According to Billboard's chief brand officer Dana Droppo, the 2026 Billboard Women in Music presented by Sonesta International Hotels will feature honorees with 'bold vision, global influence, and artistic excellence across genres.' Details about this year's honorees, performers, and presenters will be revealed in the weeks ahead.

  • The 2026 Billboard Women in Music ceremony will take place on April 29.
  • Keke Palmer was announced as the host for the event.

The players

Keke Palmer

An American actress, singer, and television personality who will host the 2026 Billboard Women in Music ceremony.

Dana Droppo

The chief brand officer at Billboard, who announced Keke Palmer as the host for the 2026 Women in Music event.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The 2026 Billboard Women in Music presented by Sonesta International Hotels honors artists who are not only shaping the sound of today, but charting what's to come. This year's honorees have bold vision, global influence, and artistic excellence across genres — and we're especially thrilled to have Keke Palmer as our host. Keke embodies the spirit of Women in Music: fearless, multifaceted, and deeply respected across entertainment and culture. She brings a vivacious energy, sharp perspective, and lovable authenticity that will make this year's show truly special.”

— Dana Droppo, Chief Brand Officer, Billboard

What’s next

Details about this year's honorees, performers, and presenters for the 2026 Billboard Women in Music ceremony will be revealed in the weeks ahead.

The takeaway

Keke Palmer's hosting role for the 2026 Billboard Women in Music event highlights her growing influence and recognition as a multifaceted entertainer who embodies the spirit of the ceremony, which celebrates female artists and their impact on the music industry.