Rihanna Taps Dave Chappelle to Host and Kendrick Lamar to Perform at 3rd Annual Diamond Ball

Proceeds from the third annual Diamond Ball will go towards Rihanna's Clara Lionel Foundation.

Rihanna at the second annual Diamond Ball.
Getty

Image via Getty/Alberto E. Rodriguez/Staff

Rihanna at the second annual Diamond Ball.

Rihanna's third annual Diamond Ball will be hosted by Dave Chappelle and feature a live performance from Kendrick Lamar. The black-tie fundraiser will be held on September 14 in New York City at Cipriani Wall Street. Proceeds from the benefit will go to the Clara Lionel Foundation.

Founded by Rihanna in 2012 in honor of her grandparents, Clara and Lionel Braithwaite, CLF works towards providing funding for "innovative education projects and scholarships, healthcare programs, and local micro grants" on a global scale. 

"‎I’m thrilled that the incomparable Dave Chappelle will kick things off as the official host of this year’s Diamond Ball and Kendrick Lamar will take the stage for an unforgettable performance," Rihanna said in a statement released on Tuesday. "I’m proud of the Clara Lionel Foundation’s significant impact in the world over the years and deeply grateful for the continued support and commitment to advancing our mission."

The inaugural Diamond Ball in 2014 was a star-studded affair hosted by Jimmy Kimmel with Brad Pitt serving as a guest speaker and Rihanna providing the musical entertainment as she performed with a live orchestra in front of an estimated 600 guests. The following year, Kevin Hart took up the hosting duties with Lionel Richie performing for the crowd. In 2016, the 29-year-old singer didn't hold an event, but after a brief hiatus, the Diamond Ball is back and now on the east coast. And with Chappelle and Kendrick attached to this year's event, the gala promises to be another amazing night.  

Latest in Pop Culture