Stars attend the Hip-Hop Inaugural Ball in honor of President Obama

Pharrell Williams, John Legend and Swizz Beatz attended the Hip-Hop Inaugural Ball on Sunday (20Jan13) in celebration of President Barack Obama's inauguration.

The stars gathered to honor the hip-hop community's role in the 2012 Election and achievements in promoting political awareness at the Harman Center for the Arts in Washington, D.C.

DJ D-Nice and hip-hop icon Doug E. Fresh took to the stage at the charity gala, which was the brainchild of business mogul Russell Simmons and hosted by actress/TV personality La La Anthony and E! News anchor Terrence J.

Rappers MC Lyte and Doug E. Fresh were both honored with a Lifetime Achievement award and actress Rosario Dawson, co-founder of the non-partisan organization VOTO LATINO, accepted an award on behalf of the group.

Dr. Benjamin Chavis, President of the Hip-Hop Action Summit Network, was also honored for his work as a mentor and advocate within the hip-hop community and for his longstanding commitment to the Civil Rights Movement.

Obama will be sworn in for a second term as president in front of hundreds of thousands of people on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on Monday (21Jan13).