50 Years of Hip-Hop Celebrated with an Energy-packed BET Awards Ceremony

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The 2023 BET Awards began with a bang as a cloaked Lil Uzi Vert took the stage, suspended from the ceiling, and plunged into a pyrotechnics-laden inaugural performance. The event swiftly transitioned into a jubilant tribute to the foundational years of hip-hop.

The spectacle was a testament to half a century of hip-hop, kickstarting a journey into the music genre’s rich history. DJ Kid Capri guided spectators through a medley reflecting the dawn of ’80s NYC rap culture, featuring iconic hits like The Sugarhill Gang’s “Rapper’s Delight,” MC LYTE’s “Cha Cha Cha”, D-NICE’s “Call ME D-Nice,” and Big Daddy Kane’s “Raw”. A partial rendition of “Just A Friend” paid respects to the late Biz Markie.

Big Daddy Kane, introducing the tribute, said, “I would not be on this stage tonight if it wasn’t for one person,” adding, “Rest in peace.” He urged the audience to sing the catchy chorus and gesture towards a displayed image of Markie on stage.

Vert began the event suspended over the stage with “Spin Again,” then transitioned into “Just Wanna Rock.”

The first award, the coveted best new artist, was presented to Coco Jones, in a category dominated by female artists.

Speaking to her fellow black women during her acceptance speech, Jones said, “We do have to fight a little harder to get what we deserve. But don’t stop fighting even when it doesn’t make sense, and when you’re unsure how you’re going to overcome your circumstances. Keep pushing because we are deserving of great things.”

What followed was a supermarket-themed performance of AP’s predicted summer club song, Latto’s “Put It On Da Floor Again,” without featured artist Cardi B but just as catchy, concluding with a text tribute to Shawty Lo.

With no host, the event had a party-like atmosphere. DJ Kid Capri livened up the crowd with Tupac’s “Hail Mary,” before introducing an immersive session on West Coast rap featuring classics like Warren G’s “Regulate,” Yo-Yo’s “You Can’t Play With My Yo-Yo,” Tyga’s “Rack City”, and E-40’s “Tell Me When To Go.”

Jones then gracefully shifted the mood with her soulful ballad “ICU,” accompanied by a string quartet.

The award for video director of the year was won by Teyana “Spike Tey” Taylor. Her mother, Nikki Taylor, accepted the award on her behalf and surprised the audience by video calling her daughter to share the moment.

The show was broadcasted live on BET, BET HER, and several Paramount channels including Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, and VH1.

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Drake was at the forefront of nominations, with seven nods, including best male hip-hop artist, male R&B/pop artist, and multiple collaborative titles, including best collaboration and viewer’s choice with Future and Tems for “Wait for U.” Drake also received nominations for album of the year and best group for his collaboration with 21 Savage, “Her Loss,” and viewer’s choice for their hit “Jimmy Cooks.”

Lizzo and 21 Savage followed closely, tied with five nominations each.

Busta Rhymes will be the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award, one of the highest recognitions of the event. The 12-time Grammy nominee and pioneering hip-hop figure has solidified his status as a great MC, boasting seven Top 10 Billboard Hot 100 hits.

A tribute to Rhymes is planned, with performances by Bia, Coi Leray, Cutty Ranks, Dexta Daps, M.O.P., Rah Digga, ScarLip, Spice, Supercat, and Swizz Beatz.

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The awards night will have several moments honoring the legacy of hip-hop, a genre that BET has backed for years through shows like “Rap City” and “106 & Park.”

Patti Labelle will also pay tribute to the late Tina Turner.

Other performers slated for the event include Chief Keef, DJ Unk, Fast Life Yungstaz & Easton (F.L.Y.), Fat Joe, Soulja Boy, Ying Yang Twins and Yo-Yo.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about 2023 BET Awards

More about 2023 BET Awards

• BET Awards Official Site
• DJ Kid Capri’s discography
• Busta Rhymes’ Career Highlights
• Lil Uzi Vert’s latest music
• Coco Jones’ Biography
• Drake’s BET Awards Nominations
• Tina Turner’s Legacy
• The Sugarhill Gang’s Influence on Hip Hop
• Patti Labelle’s career