Another year has passed, and the BET (Black Entertainment Television) Awards have repeatedly shocked viewers with outstanding performances, iconic acknowledgments, and introductions to hot new artists. The BET Awards debuted in 2001 by the Black Entertainment Television network to observe and celebrate African Americans in music, film, sport, and other entertainment. From old-school favorites like P-Diddy to fresh new Tampa talent like Doeschii, the BET Awards highlighted key moments for artists.
Singer, actress, and returning host Taraji P. Henson (who performed herself) kicked off the awards by praising the recognition as "culture's biggest night" to celebrate "black excellence." Now, it's about damn time we saw some fresh new faces in the industry. Audiences watched Doechii take center stage with her new single 'Persuasive,' following her 2019 hit 'Spookie Coohie' and 'Slumber Party' in 2021. Rising American rapper Latto accepted the award for best new artist, initially appearing on the 2016 show The Rap Game and making appearances on Nick Cannon's Wild 'n Out. Dynamic duo Silk Sonic, whose career took off in March 2021, won best video for their 2021 song 'Smokin Out The Window.' First-class performances were also made by Jack Harlow - along with Brandy, Lil Wayne and more.
Looking at BET Award history, Beyoncé is currently the most nominated performer, with 76 nominations (68 alone and 8 with former girl group Destiny's Child) and winning the most awards (6). Beyoncé won most popular music video' in 2007 for 'Irreplaceable,' 'Single Ladies' in 2009 whilst also accepting the award for best album in 2017 for 'Lemonade.' Chris Brown comes in 2nd for most wins, with 18 titles, including best video and best collaboration in 2011 for 'Look at Me Now,' and his 2020 win for best song 'No Guidance.' For a performer who started from the bottom, Drake won best video for 'God's Plan' in 2018, while Cardi B shocked the world and won best song for the iconic 'WAP' in 2021. However, fans were quick to jump on Twitter to praise the new talent Doechii for having 'one of her best performances.'
Sponsored
Doechii had one of the best performances at the BET Awards. Y'all don't understand this is her first award show performance and this the bar she's setting come on now. pic.twitter.com/aoapnN3oQg
— siphesihle (@nkosinathinomvu) June 27, 2022
While Lil Kim went viral for her cut-out performance, Kanye West shocked the audience with a surprise appearance, honoring long-time friend Diddy and jokingly making a reference to now ex-wife Kim Kardashian. Unsurprisingly, viewings went up by 34% since the 2021 BET Awards. The BET Awards is a dedication to culture like no other. Honoring music royalty, upcoming talent, women and men in television and sports (major credit to Zendaya, Naomi Osaka, Stephen Curry), and international icons who deserve a spotlight. Until next time, stay tuned.
