Charlie Wilson Opens Up About Being 29 Years Sober at His Hollywood Walk of Fame Star Ceremony

R&B icon Charlie Wilson experienced a touching full-circle moment when he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The frontman of the legendary R&B-funk group The Gap Band (71) received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles on Monday, where he was honored in a ceremony that included speeches by stars such as Snoop Dogg and Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds.

As Wilson revealed upon accepting the coveted honor, getting the star meant a lot to him — since he overcame drug addiction and homelessness on those same streets of Hollywood in the early ’90s.

“This recognition holds a very special place in my heart because it symbolizes a journey that began many, many years ago,” the musician told the crowd, which included star-studded guests such as Kayne West, Tyler, the Creator, Ty Dolla $ign and others.

Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Images

After telling a candid story about how excited he was to see the Hollywood Walk of Fame for the first time when The Gap Band visited LA to record their debut album, Magician’s Day1974 — and how he met Stevie Wonder the next day — Wilson talked about being sober for 29 years.

“Life tests us in a way, and after the success of The Gap Band, I found myself homeless on the streets of Hollywood. I could probably do 80 steps. And it was one of those side streets. I hid and slept under the car,” he said. “In those challenging times, I realized that God has a plan for me. He broke me down to build me back up and I am forever grateful for that experience.”

Snoop Dogg and Charlie Wilson at his star ceremony on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles on January 29, 2024.

Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Images

10 Rules About the Hollywood Walk of Fame You Probably Didn’t Know (Exclusive)

The Grammy-nominated artist explained that his “journey of self-discovery” led him to meet his wife Mahin Wilson, who he called the love of his life and who listened to his speech from the crowd at the star’s unveiling. “She was one of the counselors and doctors at the rehabilitation facility where I sought help. She played a key role in turning my life around,” he said.

The cameraman known as “Uncle Charlie” continued: “I stand before you today as a man who has been sober for 29 years. No relapse, day by day, 29 years, seven days a week, not a day apart from that lady here.”

Charlie Wilson and Kanye West in Los Angeles on January 29, 2024.

John Salangsang/Shutterstock

Snoop Dogg recalls Charlie Wilson’s advice that saved his marriage: ‘Don’t blow a good thing’

Wilson thanked his wife Mahin Tat, his team members and co-workers at the Jimmy Jam-hosted event, which was held on his birthday.

He concluded: “This star represents not only my journey, but also the strength of resilience, faith and unwavering support of those who believe in you. Thank you all for being a part of this amazing moment. I am truly blessed and well-loved, and look forward to continuing to share my music and my story with the world.”

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Wilson’s longtime manager Michael Paran, Edmonds, 64, Pharrell Williams via live stream and Snoop Dogg, 52, all shared touching tributes. The “Drop It Like It’s Hot” rapper exclusively shared a candid story about how he credits the “There Goes My Baby” singer with saving his marriage.

Charlie Wilson and Snoop Dogg at his Hollywood Walk of Fame star ceremony in Los Angeles on January 29, 2024.

Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Images

Boy George reveals Elton John reached out to him, was a ‘huge support’ when he got sober (Exclusive)

The hitmaker first rose to fame with The Gap Band, which he co-founded with brothers Ronnie and Robert Wilson in their hometown of Tulsa, Oklahoma, in the late 1960s. Throughout the ’70s and ’80s, the beloved funk band continued to release hits such as “You Dropped a Bomb on Me,” “Party Train” and “Burn Rubber,” among others, eventually totaling nine albums. turned platinum.

The group’s sound later influenced a handful of hip-hop artists — many of whom sampled their songs over the years. Their song “Outstanding,” for example, has been sampled by over 150 artists, including Tina Turner, Madonna, and Usher.

In the ’90s, Wilson launched a successful solo career — with a total of 13 Grammy nominations over the years and a Soul Train Icon Award in 2009.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the SAMHSA Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP.

Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education