From left, honoree Jeffrey Harleston, UMG’s Michele Anthony and Celine Joshua and New York Honors Gala host Bill Bellamy huddle for a good cause, hoping against hope that this photo won't end up in our grubby mitts.

The T.J. Martell Foundation honored Universal Music Group’s General Counsel Jeffrey Harleston at the 43rd New York Honors Gala held at Cipriani 42nd Street. Mary J. Blige sang; Bill Bellamy cracked jokes.

Harleston spoke to the sold-out crowd at Monday night’s Music’s Promise for Curing Cancer event about mentorship and leadership, as well as those who have played an important role in his career. Blige spoke of her admiration for Harleston and thanked him for everything he has done for her through her career and personal life.

British cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason, who performed at the wedding of Prince Harry and Megan Markle, received a standing ovation after performing Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.”

Also honored was New York restaurant impresario Drew Nieporent, who received the Lifetime Business Leadership Award from actor Robert Wuhl.

Chairman of the T.J. Martell Foundation National Board of Trustees Joel Katz of Greenberg Taurig, opened the night by reminding guests about the critical mission of the Foundation, which has raised more $280m for research.

Joel Katz, right, welcomes honoree Jeffrey Harleston, left, Ruby Marchand and cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason.
Joel promised Ruby he'd do his best to keep her name and likeness away from us from now on.

Bellamy is flanked by Fred Davis (l) and Doug Davis, who favored the event host with their celebrated sibling harmonies.
Later, Fred raised $200m in seed capital for a TBA entertainment venture starring Bill's jacket.