Justin Timberlake and Missy Elliott were honored with doctorate degrees from the Berklee College of Music on Saturday. Composer and musical director Alex Lacamoire also received an honorary degree for his work in Hamilton, In The Heights and Dear Evan Hansen.
This years honorary doctorate recipients are being recognized for their achievements and influences in music, and for their enduring global impact, the school said in a statement. The superstars were honored for their influences in music, and for their enduring global impact, CNN reports.
Following the ceremony, both Elliott and Timberlake posted the landmark moment on Instagram. CREATE YOUR OWN LANE, Elliott captioned her post, alongside a video of her in a cap and gown with her framed diploma. Sincerely Dr. Missy Elliot.
CREATE YOUR OWN LANE!!!! Sincerely Dr. MISSY ELLIOTT@Berkleecollege #VA #757
The Cry Me A River singer shared some advice with his Instagram followers writing in his post, No Dream is too big!!! Keep chasing!!! Trust me Im a DOCTOR.
No Dream is too big!!! Keep chasing!!! Trust me Im a DOCTOR!! But, for real THANK YOU to @berkleecollege for this incredible honorIm very humbled and grateful.
Both artists delivered speeches to the 2019 graduating class.
There will be ups and downs prepare for that, Elliott said. As long as you are breathing, it is never too late. Dont forget that. You have come too far to quit.
Timberlake also shared some wisdom with the graduating class. Youre defined by what you define failure as. Its not a thing if it leads you to your success. Its all part of the journey, he said. I hope that in the years to come, two things will happen: One, I will represent you in the way that you most hope for. And two, I look around and see this graduating class. Meet me at the studio. I want to see yall!