Gaga, Missy Elliott In Tears At Billboard Women In Music: Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato, Fifth Harmony Also Honored

Lady Gaga and Missy Elliott allowed their tears to fall when they had the opportunity to reveal the challenges they have overcome in their careers as women battling to succeed in the competitive music industry. Gaga and Missy provided their insights at the Billboard Women In Music event, reported Yahoo News.

With tears flowing freely, Missy received the Innovator of the Year honor, while Gaga earned Billboard’s Woman of the Year. For Missy, it was a sweet moment because she has limited her public appearances recently, with the exception of rocking the crowd at the Super Bowl.

Other women whose achievements were celebrated include Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato, Fifth Harmony, Loretta Lynn, Brittany Howard of Alabama Shakes, Lana Del Rey, Tori Kelly, and country singer Kelsea Ballerini. Guests ranged from Martina McBride to Alicia Keys, while Paul Rudd and Jussie Smollett also made their presence known. Lifetime will broadcast the Billboard Women In Music event on December 18.

As to why the event caused Gaga and Missy to express themselves in tears, the Woman Of The Year winner revealed how much of a battle she faced in entering the music field.

“It’s really hard sometimes for women in music. It’s like a (expletive) boys club we can’t get into. Sorry grandma,” added the singer. “I’ve tried for so long. I just wanted to be taken seriously as a musician.”

Gaga’s mom, Cynthia Germanotta, provided insights as well, revealing that her daughter’s journey began when she was still a child and took piano lessons. And now? Gaga summed up how she felt about herself and her career.

“But I can write songs and I can sing,” declared the pop star triumphantly.

But the loudest standing ovation of the event was for Missy Elliott. Her new single, “WTF (Where They From),” marks her return to the music world, and she too shared her emotions in tears.

“I was that kid that used to write on my mother’s walls… I just had songs written all over the walls… (and) as time went on I realized I was different and unique and not a follower,” revealed Missy. “I’ve had my ups and downs, there’s times I’ve wanted to give up, but God had another plan for me and if it had not been for him, I would not be standing here.”

Elliott expressed her appreciation to two very special individuals. Missy gave thanks to Janet Jackson for her support and friendship, and also honored deceased R&B singer Aaliyah.

“And Aaliyah I hope you’re looking down and proud of me,” added Missy.

The Bilboard Rulebreaker award went to Demi Lovato. Demi rocked the crowd by singing “Stone Cold,” receiving thunderous applause from audience members prior to her last note.

“Worth It” from Fifth Harmony also enhanced the event, as did a cover of Destiny’s Child’s “Independent Woman.”

Selena Gomez was honored as the Chart-Topper at the Billboard Women In Music event, and received her introduction from Paul Rudd. The two had interacted for a film previously, and Rudd complimented the pop princess for both her musical talents and her generosity.

Selena’s performance involved “Same Old Love,” her new single, and Gomez expressed her pride in her new album Revival.

“Thank you for supporting me not just with this record but all the time,” said the singer. “This album in particular was such a transition for me. I have so much more to prove.”

The Billboard Women In Music 2015’s full list of honorees is included below.

• Lady Gaga, Woman of the Year
• Selena Gomez, Chart-Topper
• Kelsea Ballerini, Rising Star
• Fifth Harmony, Group of the Year
• Loretta Lynn, Legend
• Brittany Howard, Powerhouse
• Missy Elliott, Innovator
• Tori Kelly, Breakthrough
• Demi Lovato, Rulebreaker
• Lana Del Rey, Trailblazer

[Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images]