Queen Latifah at VH1’s Save The Music 20th Anniversary Gala. All photos by Amy Hamblen.

It’s hard to believe it’s already been 20 years since the VH1 Save The Music Foundation was created. Since 1997, the foundation has restored music programs in more than 2,000 public schools, and that’s a reason to celebrate!

Ladies glammed up in formal dresses and motorcycle jackets and men outfitted in button-up shirts and skinny jeans converged on a chilly Monday night in Hell’s Kitchen for VH1 Save The Music Foundation’s 20th Anniversary Gala (except, of course, for The Fat Jewish, who was rocking a pink sweat suit).

Emceed by Sway Calloway, the exciting event combined award presentations, new campaign announcements, and, of course, musical performances for an engaging, feel-good evening. The gracious Queen Latifah was honored for her commitment to providing low-income students with education opportunities, while electro musician and producer Steve Aoki received the Music Innovator Award, and Toyota presented DJ Khaled with the #ToyotaGiving Award.

Jazz prodigy Joey Alexander entertained guests with his amazing piano skills, and consummate performer Wyclef Jean amped up the crowd with his guitar licks and energetic vocals. When Jean kicked off a rendition of Latifah’s “Just Another Day” inviting any brave up-and-comers to take the stage and freestyle a verse for the Queen, it was the perfect example of how music royalty continually inspires new talent—which is precisely what it’s all about.

The Fat Jewish and Steve Aoki

Joey Alexander