Singer-songwriter Deborah Cox is slated to make history as the first Black woman inducted into the Canadian Hall of Fame, Vibe reports.

The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) announced the news on Tuesday. Not only will the singer be inducted into the Hall of Fame at the 51st Annual JUNO Awards, but she will also perform during the ceremony.

Over her nearly three decades long career, the singer has won several Juno Awards and has been nominated for a Grammy Award. According to Vibe, the 47-year-old has six critically acclaimed albums and has reached the top of the charts with six Billboard’s Top 20 R&B singles and 13 No. 1 tracks on Billboard’s Hot Dance Club Play Chart.

 

In a press release, Cox expressed her gratitude to CARAS for the honor.

“Music has always been about community for me, and I am so thankful to the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and CARAS for not only recognizing myself but my family, friends, and loving fans who have supported me and helped make my dream possible for the past 25+ years,” she said in a statement shared with Vibe. “As the first Black woman to become an inductee, I am honored to have the chance to show our younger generations that they can achieve whatever they set their minds to with hard work, dedication, and passion.”

She echoed similar sentiments to ET Canada, sharing with the outlet her awareness of how big this moment is.

“It’s very special,” Cox told ET Canada.”The levity of this moment, what this means, the impact this will have moving forward on little Black girls who now have me to be their inspiration is just a blessing.”

According to Vibe, Allan Reid, president and CEO of CARAS/The JUNO Awards, shared the Academy’s thoughts on Cox’s induction.

“Deborah is a multi-dimensional artist who has been entertaining and captivating audiences around the world for over 25 years,” he said, according to Vibe. “Her resounding voice and powerful performances have made her an international icon. We are so privileged to celebrate her talent and can’t wait to see her inspire audiences this spring in her hometown of Toronto.”