Ice Spice took the stage at the 2023 BET Awards on Sunday night to perform several of her biggest songs including “Munch (Feelin’ U),” “Princess Diana,” and more. With the performance, she paid homage to her hometown of the Bronx in the set design.
Ice Spice began by rapping on top of a basketball hoop rim referencing her music video for “Munch.” From there, she moved to a bodega, where producer RIOTUSA, introduced her to the audience. “Make some noise for Ice Spice,” he yelled out. Before the end, she rapped in front of a remake of the Fordham Road stop on the 4 train. Check out the performance below.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 25: Ice Spice performs onstage during the BET Awards 2023 at Microsoft Theater on June 25, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)
Performing at the BET Awards is just the latest achievement for Ice Spice. Her career first took off back in August 2022, following the release of her breakthrough single, “Munch (Feelin’ U).” In the months since, she’s collaborated with Taylor Swift and Nicki Minaj, while releasing several more hits. She recently discussed what it’s been like reaching this level of fame with Teen Vogue. Ice Spice revealed that remaining humble is what makes her most proud.
“I’m most proud of staying grounded so far because I’ve already been through so many things that I know a lot of people would’ve lost their f*cking minds,” she explained. “The whole lifestyle change is super drastic, especially coming from where I come from, not coming from sht and not having a lot growing up, to now — it’s the complete opposite…. Even though it’s a positive change, it’s still a change.”
Ice Spice Performs “Munch (Feelin’ U)” & More
Elsewhere in the night, Busta Rhymes accepted the Lifetime Achievement Award with an emotional speech, Quavo and Offset reunited to honor Takeoff and more. Check out the full list of winners from the event below.
Busta Rhymes broke down into tears while accepting the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2023 BET Awards on Sunday night. While speaking on stage at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, he reflected on his career and life as a whole.
“All right. So, I’m going to wear it on my sleeve. I do want to cry,” Rhymes began before taking a long moment to let his emotions loose. He continued: “I’m going to say I am grateful that the blessing that has been bestowed upon me and this gift that I have been given and this fire that continues to burn as a passion in my soul, that allows me to get into any situation — from the stage to collabing with whoever — and making sure that I am far from the weak link. Because I enjoy walking away from a situation saying, ‘I bust ass!’”
Busta Rhymes Accepts The Lifetime Achievement Award
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 25: Honoree Busta Rhymes (C) accepts the Lifetime Achievement Award onstage during the BET Awards 2023 at Microsoft Theater on June 25, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)
Busta continued: “It’s just me trying to do my duty to continue to advance the culture and continue to contribute in a significant way. I see so many people in here that I have known and grown with for a long time, you’re watching me grow and I love y’all and I know y’all love me.”
In addition to the speech, a short video honoring Busta’s legacy also played. It featured Diddy, Pharrell Williams, Janet Jackson, Dave Chappelle, and more discussing his impact. Scott Mills, CEO of BET, announced in a statement, earlier this week, that Busta would accept the award. “Busta Rhymes is a multifaceted, award-winning artist who has mesmerized audiences for decades with his original hip-hop sound and one-of-a-kind visuals,” Mills said at the time. “He continues to leave an indelible mark on the culture that we hold dear, and it is with great pride that we present this year’s lifetime achievement award to a visionary, a master of rhyme and a true pioneer.”
Quavo and Offset reunited for a performance at the 2023 BET Awards on Sunday night at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. In doing so, they paid tribute to their late Migos partner, Takeoff.
The two began by performing “Hotel Lobby,” before a massive image of Takeoff displayed on the screen behind them. They also performed the Migos hit, “Bad and Boujee” with pyrotechnics going off around them. It was the first time Quavo and Offset performed together since Takeoff’s passing.
An Image Of Takeoff Projected Behind Quavo & Offset
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 25: An image of the late Takeoff (C) is displayed on a screen while Quavo (L) and Offset (R) perform onstage during the BET Awards 2023 at Microsoft Theater on June 25, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)
After the performance, Offset shared a clip of the broadcast on Instagram. “Do this shit for the fam cuz this shit bigger than me,” he captioned the video. Quavo shared a clip as well with the caption: “For The Rocket.”
While they hadn’t performed together since Takeoff’s death, Quavo and Offset recently reunited to celebrate the late rapper’s birthday. They both shared tributes on Instagram for Takeoff as well. “Happy birthday rocket man,” Offset captioned a photo of Takeoff on Instagram. “The greatest to touch a mic!! best spirit ever!! purest man I know your heart was golden bring me peace bra we celebrate your life because you still right here I love you gang.” Alongside a post featuring a video of himself and Takeoff, Quavo wrote: “Happy Birthday @yrntakeoff can’t wait for days like this again!!! BEST believe we goin up all week the Rocket way GEEKD u 29 n***a.”
Quavo & Offset Perform At The BET Awards
Earlier in the night, Latto performed her new song, “Put It On Da Floor.” For the full list of winners, including GloRilla, Drake, Beyonce, and many more, head here. Quavo & Takeoff are also nominated together for the Best Group.
The 2023 BET Awards took place on Sunday night with plenty of hip-hop’s biggest stars taking home awards for their work over the past year. Among the biggest nominees are Drake, Chris Brown, Beyonce, SZA, and more.
Drake leads the way with the most chances to win, boasting a total of seven nominations. The Toronto rapper is up for Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Best Male R&B/Pop Artist, Best Group with 21 Savage, and Best Collaboration with Future and Tems.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 25: (L-R) Quavo and Offset perform onstage during the BET Awards 2023 at Microsoft Theater on June 25, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
Despite competing with artists like Beyonce, SZA, Lizzo, and more, GloRilla ranks as the most-nominated female artist at the show. She’s up for Best Female Hip Hop Artist, Best New Artist, Album of the Year for Anyways, Life’s Great, and Video of the Year for “Tomorrow 2” with Cardi B.
In addition to the awards, several top artists will also be performing at the ceremony. They include Latto, Quavo and Offset, Doechii, Lil Uzi Vert, and more. Check out the full list of winners and nominees below as it is updated live.
Album Of The Year
Anyways, Life’s Great, GloRilla Breezy, Chris Brown God Did, DJ Khaled Her Loss, Drake & 21 Savage Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, Kendrick Lamar Renaissance, Beyoncé SOS, SZA
Best Female R&B/Pop Artist
Ari Lennox Beyoncé Coco Jones H.E.R. Lizzo SZA Tems
Best Male R&B/Pop Artist
Blxst Brent Faiyaz Burna Boy Chris Brown Drake The Weeknd Usher
Best Group
City Girls Drake & 21 Savage Dvsn FLO Maverick City Music & Kirk Franklin Quavo & Takeoff Wanmor
Best Collaboration
“Big Energy (Remix),” Latto & Mariah Carey Feat. Dj Khaled “Boy’s A Liar Pt. 2,” Pinkpantheress & Ice Spice “Call Me Every Day,” Chris Brown Feat. Wizkid “Can’t Stop Won’t Stop,” King Combs Feat. Kodak Black “Creepin’,” Metro Boomin, The Weeknd & 21 Savage “F.N.F. (Let’s Go),” Hitkidd & GloRilla “Tomorrow 2,” GloRilla & Cardi B “Wait For U,” Future Feat. Drake & Tems
Best Female Hip Hop Artist
Cardi B Coi Leray GloRilla Ice Spice Latto – Winner Megan Thee Stallion Nicki Minaj
Best Male Hip Hop Artist
21 Savage Drake Future J. Cole Jack Harlow Kendrick Lamar Lil Baby
Video Of The Year
“We (Warm Embrace),” Chris Brown “2 Million Up,” Peezy, Jeezy & Real Boston Richey feat. Rob49 “About Damn Time,” Lizzo “Bad Habit,” Steve Lacy “First Class,” Harlow “Kill Bill,” SZA “Tomorrow 2,” GloRilla & Cardi B
Video Director Of The Year
A$AP Rocky for AWGE Benny Boom Burna Boy Cole Bennett Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar Director X Teyana “Spike Tey” Taylor – Winner
Best New Artist
Ambré Coco Jones Doechii FLO GloRilla Ice Spice Lola Brooke
Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award
“Bless Me,” Maverick City Music & Kirk Franklin “Finished (Live),” Tamela Mann “I’ve Got Joy,” CeCe Winans “Kingdom,” Maverick City Music & Kirk Franklin feat. Naomi Raine & Chandler Moore “New,” Tye Tribbett “One Moment From Glory,” Yolanda Adams “The Better Benediction (Pt.2),” PJ Morton feat. Lisa Knowles-Smith, Le’andria Johnson, Keke Wyatt, Kierra Sheard & Tasha Cobbs Leonard
Viewer’s Choice Award
“About Damn Time,” Lizzo “Break My Soul,” Beyoncé “First Class,” Jack Harlow “Jimmy Cooks,” Drake Feat 21 Savage “Kill Bill,” SZA “Last Last,” Burna Boy “Super Freaky Girl,” Nicki Minaj “Wait For U,” Future Feat. Drake & Tems
Best International Act
Aya Nakamura (France) Ayra Starr (Nigeria) Burna Boy (Nigeria) Central Cee (UK) Ella Mai (UK) Ko (South Africa) L7nnon (Brazil) Stormzy (UK) Tiakola (France) Uncle Waffles (Swaziland)
Viewer’s Choice: Best New International Act
Asake (Nigeria) Camidoh (Ghana) Flo (UK) Libianca (Cameroon) Maureen (France) MC Ryan SP (Brazil) Pabi Cooper (South Africa) Raye (UK) Werenoi (France)
BET Her
“About Damn Time,” Lizzo “Boy’s A Liar Pt. 2,” Pinkpantheress & Ice Spice “Break My Soul,” Beyoncé – Winner “Her,” Megan Thee Stallion “Lift Me Up,” Black Panther: Wakanda Forever – Music From And Inspired By – Rihanna & Ludwig Göransson “Players,” Coi Leray “Special,” Lizzo
Best Movie
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Creed 3 Emancipation Nope The Woman King Till Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody
Best Actor
Amin Joseph Brian Tyree Henry Damson Idris Daniel Kaluuya Demetrius ‘Lil Meech’ Flenory Jr. Donald Glover Michael B. Jordan
Best Actress
Angela Bassett Coco Jones Janelle James Janelle Monáe Keke Palmer Viola Davis Zendaya
Youngstars Award
Akira Akbar Alaya High Demi Singleton Genesis Denise Marsai Martin Thaddeus J. Mixson Young Dylan
Sportswoman Of The Year Award
Alexis Morris Allyson Felix Angel Reese Candace Parker Naomi Osaka Serena Williams Sha’carri Richardson
Sportsman Of The Year Award
Aaron Judge Bubba Wallace Gervonta Davis Jalen Hurts LeBron James Patrick Mahomes Stephen Curry
The 2023 BET Awards are quickly approaching. The award show is known for celebrating Black music and entertainment, and the nominees are a reflection of that. Among the most stacked categories of this year’s BET Awards include the nominees for best group. The 7 nominees in the category span across multiple genres, from gospel to hip-hop.
Besides the nominations, BET announced the performers for this year’s event. the 2023 BET Awards include performances by Lil Uzi Vert, Doechii, Coco Jones, Glorilla, and a special performance to commemorate the 50th anniversary of hip hop with a variety of hip hop’s most prominent artists. The Hip Hop 50 performers include the likes of Big Daddy Kane, Chief Keef, Fat Joe, Ja Rule, Master P, MC Lyte, and many more. The 2023 BET Awards will air on Sunday, June 25, at 8 p.m. ET. Take a look at the list of potential winners and let us know in the comments who should take home the award.
Within the past five years, City Girls have taken over the contemporary hip-hop scene, releasing party-ready bangers that are guaranteed to turn clubs upside down. Members Yung Miami and JT represent their home city of Miami with upbeat, energetic tracks that embrace their southern roots. City Girls reached mainstream recognition with their appearance on Drake’s 2018 single, “In My Feelings.” Since then, the two have been churning out hit songs, including “Act Up,” “Twerk,” and “Twerkulator.” Their latest feature on Diddy’s “Act Bad” is an instant party soundtrack for this summer. In addition to music, Yung Miami’s talk show, Caresha Please has earned her a new position as a notable figure in hip hop media. City Girls make a strong case for the award, with their string of hit songs and cultural relevance.
Drake and 21 Savage first teamed up in 2017 for the one-off single, “Sneakin.” Since then, the two have been closely collaborating, appearing on each other’s albums. Drake appeared on 21 Savage’s “Mr. Right Now” from Savage Mode II in 2020 while 21 featured on Drake’s “Knife Talk” from Certified Lover Boy the following year.
21 Savage was the lone feature on Drake’s dance album, 2022’s Honestly, Nevermind on “Jimmy Cooks,” which was one of the few obvious hip-hop offerings on the album. “Jimmy Cooks” became a big hit and as a result, the two joined forces for a full-length collaborative album. The release of the Her Loss album later that year officially marked Drake and 21 Savage joining together as a group. Her Loss sparked many viral hits, including “Rich Flex.” 21 Savage will join Drake on his It’s All a Blur Tour this summer, playing arenas across North America.
dvsn has been holding down R&B for a while now. The Canadian duo, consisting of singer Daniel Daley and producer Nineteen85, signed to Drake’s OVO Sound label in 2016. Together, they have released four studio albums that emulate the classic era of 90s and 2000s R&B while also embracing the sounds of today. Their debut album, 2016’s Sept. 5th is widely considered as a modern classic, consisting of multiple tracks that have been certified gold. They have worked with Drake, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Future, Buju Banton, Popcaan, Snoh Aalegra, Miguel, and others. Last year, dvsn released their fourth studio album, Working On My Karma, and have toured the album heavily, playing shows in North America and Europe.
FLO are one of the UK’s latest sensations. The R&B/pop girl group, consisting of members Jorja Douglas, Stella Quaresma, and Renée Downer signed to Island Records in 2022 and released their debut single, “Cardboard Box” which has performed extremely well. So far, FLO has worked with the likes of Missy Elliott, Stormzy, and MNEK. They released their debut EP, The Lead in 2022 and embarked on their first-ever headlining tour, playing concerts in Europe, the UK, North America, and Asia. With major cosigns early in their career, their 2023 BET Award nomination for best group solidified their status as rising stars.
Maverick City Music & Kirk Franklin stand out among the hip hop-centric list of best group nominees for the 2023 BET Awards. Maverick City Music is a well-established name in gospel music — a genre that Kirk Franklin dominated for decades. Together, they made for a major co-headlining arena tour last year. Their Kingdom Tour led to the release of their live album, Kingdom Book One, in 2022. Both Maverick City Music and Kirk Franklin are well-decorated, receiving numerous awards for gospel and Christian music awards, as well as Grammys. Their 2023 BET Award nomination for Best Group is further confirmation of their collaboration as a powerful collective.
Migos have won numerous BET Awards, including four awards in 2017. Following Culture II in 2018, the three Migos each released solo albums before teaming up for Culture III in 2021. In 2022, Quavo & Takeoff formed their own group as Unc & Phew, releasing “Hotel Lobby,” the biggest single from their collaborative album. Quavo & Takeoff’s Only Built For Infinity Links was released in late 2022, less than a month before Takeoff’s murder. The tragedy of Takeoff’s death shook the hip-hop community, and their best group nomination at the 2023 BET Awards speaks to his impact and legacy.
Boyz II Men were one of the most influential boy bands of the 1990s. Member Wanyá Morris’s four sons formed their own group as WanMor, following in their father’s footsteps. Big Boy, Chulo, Tyvas, and Rocco might be young, but are working to preserve the boy band culture of the 90s that their father helped build.
The BET Award for Best International Act was first introduced in 2010 to highlight talents outside of the United States. Between 2011 and 2017, the category was split into two — Africa and the UK. However, since 2018, the award has become a more inclusive one. Accordingly, the 2023 BET nominees for the Best International Act include acts from all over the globe.
This year’s BET Awards will be held on June 25 in Los Angeles. These are the 10 artists up for the International Act award.
The recently announced nominations mark Aya Nakamura’s third time being recognized for the BET Award for Best International Act. Her first two nominations came as a result of her second and third albums, Nakamura and Aya, respectfuly. The French R&B singer earned her third nod due to her stellar fourth album, DNK. Nakamura released two singles, “SMS” and “Baby”, ahead of the album’s release, which made waves across Europe, particularly France. As was the case for her previous albums, DNK performed very well on the French Album chart, as well as the Belgian and Swiss charts.
Ayra Starr’s rise to fame began in 2021 with the release of her eponymous debut EP. After gaining momentum, she eventually released her debut album, 19 & Dangerous, only a few months later. By 2022, she had become a huge sensation. Ayra Starr’s music is predominantly R&B and Afrobeats. Her 2022 single “Rush”, propelled her into the European market, and she eventually worked with Kelly Rowland for a remix to her song, “Bloody Samaritan”. “Rush” would also eventually peak at the 24th spot on the UK Singles chart. This is her first nomination.
Burna Boy needs no introduction as far as the BET Awards go. The global sensation is no stranger to the BET Award for Best International Act. He famously pulled off a trifecta by taking the award three years in a row in 2019, 2020, and 2021. In the same vein as his previous works, his most recent album, Love, Damini was released in 2022 to critical acclaim. Straightaway, it became the highest-charting African album on the Billboard 200 upon its release. Love, Damini famously housed the popular single, “Last Last” and also featured other prominent artists like J Hus, Kehlani, Ed Sheeran, Khalid, and Blxst.
Oakley Caesar-Su, better known as Central Cee is a London-born rapper. In 2022, Central Cee became the first UK rapper to achieve one billion Spotify streams in a year. This was thanks to his viral hits “23”, “Doja”, “One Up” and “Let Go.” His latest EP No More Leaks arrived in October. This is his first-ever nomination for Best International Act at the BET Awards.
English singer Ella Mai made a successful crossover into the US market with her global hit single “Boo’d Up”. Following the release of her acclaimed sophomore album, Heart on My Sleeve, she has earned her first BET Award nod for Best International Act. The album features notable names, including Ty Dolla Sign, Latto, Roddy Rich, and Lucky Daye.
Ntokozo Mdluli, better known as K.O, started off as a member of the Hip Hop group, Teargas. Today, he’s made his name as one of South Africa’s most interesting rappers. Furthermore, his fourth album, Skhanda Republic 3 was released to critical acclaim. The lead single “SETE” was widely praised and became one of the most admired tracks of 2022.
Brazil’s L7nnon, also known as L7, enjoyed a massive breakthrough in 2022. He’s not only an accomplished rapper and rising star but is also a brilliant skateboarder who’s trying to go pro. L7nnon released several singles that took off in his native Brazil, including “Ai Preto” and “Facilitei.” He is also the third Brazilian nominated for the Best International Act award, following Emicida and Ludmilla’s nods in 2021 and 2022.
Stormzy is unarguably one of the UK’s most recognized rappers. He’s been nominated for the BET Award for Best International Act twice in the past. These nods came after his first and second albums, Gang Signs & Prayer, and Heavy is the Head. Stormzy’s third album was titled This Is What I Mean and released in late 2022. It earned critical acclaim for its genre-infused tracks and intimacy. The project has spurred his third nod for the award.
William Mundola, popularly known by his moniker Tiakola, is a French rapper. The rising star rose to fame in his native country as a member of the R&B and Hip Hop group, 4Keus. As the group is currently on a hiatus, Tiakola has gained even more fame as a solo artist. His debut album Mélo eventually hit the top spot on the French Album charts. Mélo featured several notable French rappers, including Hamza, Niska, Gazo, and more.
Uncle Waffles has been dubbed the “Princess of Amapiano”. This title is due to her infectious beats and swagged out style. The Eswatini-born DJ and producer has made South Africa her home and is gradually taking the continent of Africa by storm. Throughout Uncle Waffle’s career, she became an international sensation who performed across the globe. She is also the first amapiano act to play at Coachella. “Tanzania”, her debut single, became a huge hit, and was recently used by Beyoncé in a dance break during her Renaissance World Tour.
We’re deep-diving into the 2023 BET Awards as the ceremony is right around the corner. There are heavy hitters across all categories, but the Best Male R&B/Pop Artist collection is stacked to the brim. The “Culture’s Biggest Night,” as BET calls it, is a celebration of all things related to Black entertainment. Here, we’re revisiting the talents of seven hitmakers with careers that aspiring hopefuls could only beg for.
From Blxst, who has been dominating as a force from the West Coast, to Drake, who needs no introduction, to Chris Brown, who is in the middle of a Michael Jackson-King of Pop debate among fans—this category has brought out the big leagues. Take a deeper look at the artists desiring to take home the BET trophy, and let us know who you think deserves the crown.
Blxst
Blxst is a dynamic talent hailing from Los Angeles, and he’s been captivating fans with his hybrid Rap-R&B sound. His breakthrough occurred in 2019 with the single “Hurt,” followed by the release of his acclaimed debut EP, No Love Lost, in 2020. Its success propelled him to launch his own independent record label, Evgle.
Blxst continued his musical ascend with his 2021 album No Love Lost (Deluxe), which secured a spot in Billboard’s Top 200, a nod to his rising popularity. The South Central native’s meteoric rise and distinctive sound leave an indelible mark on the contemporary music scene. It has made him one of the most exciting artists to watch in today’s Hip Hop landscape.
Brent Faiyaz
Brent Faiyaz is an artist synonymous with soulful R&B. Launching his solo career in 2016, Faiyaz quickly gained a following with his passionate vocals. His EP A.M. Paradox was a critical success, setting the stage for his compelling 2017 debut album Sonder Son. Subsequent releases, including the 2020 project F*ck The World, continued to resonate with listeners. It also helped him earn him spots on Billboard‘s R&B charts.
Running his independent label, Lost Kids, Faiyaz has crafted his path in the industry. He’s been able to preserve his authentic sound while pushing creative boundaries. Recognition for his talent is widespread; his feature on GoldLink’s “Crew” garnered a Grammy nomination in 2017. The 2023 BET Awards have further highlighted his contribution to the R&B genre, confirming his status as a leading voice in contemporary music. With each release, Faiyaz continues to captivate audiences with his poignant sound.
Burna Boy
Nigerian megastar Burna Boy has been a leading force in the global Afrobeats movement. His unique fusion of various genres has resulted in a successful international career. Burna Boy has consistently delivered chart-topping hits since his breakout studio album L.I.F.E in 2013. Further, his fourth album African Giant received a Grammy nomination. His triumph was affirmed with the 2020 release Twice As Tall, which won Best Global Music Album at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards.
He operates under his independent label, Spaceship Entertainment, though he’s also aligned with Atlantic Records and Warner Music. His remarkable string of accolades includes multiple wins at the Soundcity MVP Awards Festival, BET Awards, and MTV Europe Music Awards. As one of the leading figures in the 2023 BET Awards, Burna Boy’s influence and dominance in the music scene remain undeniable.
Chris Brown
Megastar Chris Brown has become one of the defining voices in modern R&B. Recognized for his soulful vocal range and stellar dance moves, Brown has released ten studio albums as of 2023. He boasts numerous chart-topping singles such as “Kiss Kiss,” “With You,” and “No Guidance.” His first album, the 2005 self-titled Chris Brown, went double Platinum, and subsequent albums like Exclusive and F.A.M.E. solidified his status.
He signed with Jive Records initially but later moved to RCA Records. Despite controversy, Brown has amassed an impressive collection of accolades, including a Grammy for Best R&B Album for F.A.M.E., an array of BET Awards, and several Billboard Music Awards. Ahead of the 2023 BET Awards, it’s clear that Chris Brown’s music continues to be a significant force, influencing the landscape of contemporary R&B and beyond.
Drake
Drizzy has been a monumental figure in the global music industry since his debut in 2009. As a rapper, singer, and songwriter, Drake has released seven studio albums, including the critically acclaimed Take Care and Views. Each album has resulted in numerous chart-topping hits, such as “Hotline Bling,” “God’s Plan,” and “In My Feelings.”
Originally with Young Money Entertainment, he later founded his own label, OVO Sound, an imprint of Warner Records. His unique fusion of Hip Hop and R&B, coupled with introspective lyrics, earned him several prestigious awards, including several Grammys. As we approach the 2023 BET Awards, Drake continues to shape the music scene, leaving an unforgettable mark on the industry.
Another Canadian artist who became a global sensation is The Weeknd. He has established himself as one of the most influential artists of the past decade. The R&B sensation emerged in 2010 with a series of mixtapes later compiled into the Trilogy compilation album. He has released five highly successful albums, with Starboyand After Hourscementing his place atop the charts.
His signature falsetto and moody lyrics have consistently reached the top of the Billboard charts. Most notably with the record-breaking hit “Blinding Lights.” Signed under his own label, XO, as well as Republic Records, The Weeknd’s blend of Pop, R&B, and Electronic music has garnered him numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy wins. As we look forward to the 2023 BET Awards, The Weeknd remains a significant force in the industry, continually pushing musical boundaries.
Usher is a name that is consistently in the King of R&B conversations. His career began in the 1990s, and throughout his career, he has released nine studio albums, including the Diamond-certified Confessions, which catapulted him to a new sphere of stardom. With a remarkable track record of chart-topping hits such as “Yeah!,” “Burn,” and “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love,” Usher’s discography highlights his enduring relevance in the music industry.
He spent most of his career with LaFace Records and its successor, RCA Records. Unsurprisingly, Usher has earned himself an array of prestigious accolades, including a bevy of Grammy Awards. In anticipation of the 2023 BET Awards, Usher’s influential legacy and continuing contributions to R&B music spotlight his standing as a genre’s cornerstone.
The 2023 BET Awards are only a few days away, and the nominations are out. On the 25th of June, the ceremony will be held in Los Angeles, California at the Microsoft Theater. Although a host is yet to be announced, one should be revealed within the next couple of days. However, one major category that’s garnered attention is that of the Best Actress.
At the previous year’s ceremony, the number of nominees increased from six to nine, but the number has been brought down to seven in 2023. Currently holding the title is Zendaya, who won for her roles in HBO’s Euphoria and Spider-Man: No Way Home. First-time nominees include Abbot Elementary’s standout star Janelle James, as well as Keke Palmer for her star-elevating turn in the Western horror movie, Nope.
The competition is as tight as ever. Regardless, here are all the seven nominees up for Best Actress at the 2023 BET Awards.
Angela Bassett
Angela Bassett has already made history as the first MCU actor to earn an acting award at major awards ceremonies. So it’s no surprise that she’s once again earned another nod at the upcoming BET Awards. Bassett’s nomination for Best Actress officially makes her the most nominated woman in the history of the category. She has been up for the trophy eleven times in the past, and this year marks her twelfth time.
Unfortunately, she’s yet to snag the award, but her recent win streak might spell a different tale this year. In addition to her work as Queen Ramonda in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Basset’s nod also recognizes her work in television. Her leading role as Sergeant Athena Grant-Nash on the procedural drama 9-1-1 has been continuously commended.
Last year, Coco Jones earned her first Best Actress nod at the BET Awards. This was thanks to her fabulous reimagination of Hilary Banks in Bel-Air. Jones has received widespread acclaim for her portrayal of the character. She has served to introduce the character to a new generation of viewers while maintaining the spunk of the original. Besides the Best Actress nod, Jones is also up for the 2023 BET Awards for Best New Artist and Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, due to her stellar year as a musician.
Janelle James has been making people laugh for decades, but her breakthrough role on Abbott Elementary has been truly exceptional. James stars as Principal Ava in the comedy mockumentary, and her hilarious role has been constantly praised by fans and critics alike. 2023 marks James’ first Best Actress nomination at the BET Awards. As Abbott Elementary has already been renewed for a third season, there are probably a couple more nods for the actress in the future.
Janelle Monáe‘s first Best Actress nomination at the BET Awards came in 2017. Her brilliant performance in the biographical drama Hidden Figures was greatly praised. She lost the award to her co-star, Taraji P. Henson, but this year, she’s up for the trophy once again for her performance in Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery. In the movie, Monáe won the audience and critics over by playing the role of twin sisters Helen and Andi. Her contrasting performance was a standout in the film.
Keke Palmer has received her first-ever Best Actress nomination at the 2023 BET Awards. This recognition comes as a result of her highly acclaimed role in the Jordan Peele horror, Nope. Palmer played Emerald Haywood, the curious, outspoken sister of OJ Haywood, played by Daniel Kaluuya. Their unique performances were praised, with Palmer singled out for her incredible talents on screen. Furthermore, her voice acting on the animated series Human Resources was also lauded and is also part of why she’s up for the trophy.
With seven nods for Best Actress, Viola Davis is one of the most nominated women in the history of the BET Awards. She won in 2012 for her roles in Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close, as well as The Help. Davis is one of the most awarded actresses of her generation. It’s no surprise that her performance in epic drama The Woman King has garnered yet another nod.
Davis worked tirelessly to get in warrior shape for her role in the film, and she completely knocked it out of the park. While she has earned nods for her acting in film, the bulk of her nominations are thanks to her stellar performance in the legal drama How to Get Away With Murder.
Zendaya is currently the Best Actress holder at the BET Awards. Her win in 2022 came as a result of her gritty, emotional performance in the HBO teen drama, Euphoria. Coupled with that, her role in Spider-Man: No Way Home was also recognized. Although Euphoria has enjoyed its fair share of criticisms since its premiere, Zendaya’s acting has constantly been on the receiving end of praise.
We’ve been highlighting the nominees for the 2023 BET Awards, and it’s time to shine a light on the Best Female Hip Hop Artist category. Several noteworthy artists are competing for the gold this year, and fans have taken to social media to praise their favorites. The BET Awards prides itself on being “the culture’s biggest night,” as it says, so we’re expecting another year of monumental performances from the industry’s hottest players.
In Hip Hop’s recent years, the ladies have dominated the charts. We’ve seen women in Rap command attention as they’ve unapologetically put their bars on display. This year, the Best Female Hip Hop Artist nominees are familiar faces who have amassed charting glory—some even collaborating to craft massive hits. It comes as no surprise to see Rap veterans to the newer generation on this list, but they all certainly deserve the recognition. Take a look at the seven femcees up for the 2023 BET Awards category for Best Female Hip Hop Artist.
Cardi B is a force of nature in the rap industry, stemming from the streets of The Bronx. Since signing with Atlantic Records in 2017, Cardi’s career trajectory has been stratospheric. Her debut studio album Invasion of Privacywon the Grammy for Best Rap Album, making her the first solo female artist to win in this category. Known for chart-topping hits like “Bodak Yellow” and “Up,” Cardi B conquers the Billboard Hot 100, setting and breaking records with each new release.
She’s also claimed multiple accolades, including four BET Awards. Now a 2023 BET Award nominee, Cardi continues to captivate audiences with her unapologetic charisma. Her authenticity makes Cardi B an indomitable force in the music industry, continually reshaping the landscape of modern Hip Hop.
Coi Leray
Coi Leray is a burgeoning talent in Hip Hop. This engaging artist began her musical journey independently before signing with Republic Records in 2018. Leray’s debut mixtape, Everythingcoz, launched her into the spotlight. Coi’s breakthrough single, “No More Parties,” landed a spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2021, earning a Platinum certification. Her ensuing successes led to the release of her debut studio album in 2022, further showcasing her innovative blend of Hip Hop and melodic rap.
Further, Leray’s 2023 BET Awards nomination marked her recognition in the competitive music industry. Having collaborated with industry heavyweights and consistently producing charting singles, Coi Leray stands out for her refreshing sound and positive outlook. As she continues to evolve, Leray’s career promises great potential in the constantly shifting landscape of contemporary Hip Hop.
GloRilla stands as a force with her deep, textured drawl. This Memphis-born rapper found her footing in music through her church’s choir, later shifting to Rap after losing her voice. She launched her career with the mixtape Most Likely Up Next in 2019, chased by an EP, P Status, released the following year. Her breakout moment came with the viral hit “F.N.F. (Let’s Go)” with Hitkidd in 2022, sparking the #FNFChallenge on TikTok. It helped her bag two nominations at the 2022 BET Hip Hop Awards. Furthering her meteoric rise, Glo signed with fellow Memphis rapper Yo Gotti’s Collective Music Group label in July 2022.
Additionally, her single “Tomorrow 2”, featuring Cardi B, stormed the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100. Following the success of her EP Anyways, Life’s Great… and collaborations with artists like Latto and Moneybagg Yo, GloRilla solidified her status as one of Hip Hop’s most rousing new voices. Despite a tragic stampede at a concert in 2023, she continues to impact the music scene.
Ice Spice is one of the newest Bronx natives to captivate Hip Hop. Growing up in a diverse household, her love for Hip Hop began early, inspired by artists like Lil Kim and Nicki Minaj. Her professional journey started in 2021, following a chance meeting with producer RiotUSA in college. Ice Spice’s debut, “Bully Freestyle,” landed in March 2021, garnering her immediate attention.
The track “Munch (Feelin’ U)” became a viral sensation in 2022, enjoying a boost from the renowned Drake. The success led to a deal with 10K Projects and Capitol Records and the release of her debut EP, Like..? in 2023. This year also saw Ice collaborate with heavyweights like Lil Tjay and Nicki Minaj, scoring multiple Top 5 singles on the Billboard Hot 100. Her fusion of audacious lyricism and Drill beats has defined 2023 as her breakout year.
Latto
Latto has spent her life working on her music career, and she’s enjoying the fruits of her labor. First gaining recognition on Lifetime’s The Rap Game, she soon signed with RCA Records. Her debut album, Queen of Da Souf, featured the Platinum-certified hit “B*tch From Da Souf.” This charting success solidified Latto’s place in the industry, with her fiery verses gaining traction among listeners. Her 2021 follow-up album 777 further demonstrated her growth as an artist, earning widespread acclaim.
Houston’s Megan Thee Stallion is a Texas-born powerhouse. Since signing with 300 Entertainment in 2018, her career has skyrocketed. Her debut studio album, Good News, delivered multiple chart-topping hits, including “Savage Remix” featuring Beyoncé and “Body.” Megan’s distinctive mix of high-energy performance and raw lyricism has earned her multiple honors, including three Grammy Awards for Best New Artist, Best Rap Performance, and Best Rap Song. By the time of the 2023 BET Awards, she’s been nominated once again, underscoring her continuous impact on Hip Hop. Megan Thee Stallion’s bold persona and infectious confidence have positioned her as a formidable force.
Nicki Minaj
Renowned as the “Queen of Rap,” Nicki Minaj first made her name in Queens, New York. Since signing with Young Money Entertainment in 2009, Minaj has consistently pushed boundaries in the music industry. With albums like Pink Friday, Roman Reloaded, and The Pinkprint, she has secured numerous Billboard Hot 100 hits. Tracks like “Super Bass,” “Starships,” and “Anaconda” have become classics in the culture.
Minaj has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including 10 BET Awards, six American Music Awards, and four Billboard Music Awards. Her 2023 BET Awards nomination reinforces her enduring influence on Rap, regardless of gender. Hailed as one of the greatest to ever pick up a mic, Minaj’s dedicated fanbase of Barbz never hesitate to let the world know just how deep her talent runs.
The nominations for Best Male Hip Hop Artist at the 2023 BET Awards have been announced. There are seven nominees this year, and naturally, they are all chart-topping sensations. Drake and Kendrick Lamar are shoo-in nominees but artists like Lil Baby and Jack Harlow are in the mix, too, after phenomenal runs in 2022. All the artists have had their music widely discussed in the past year. Plus, they all have something going on outside of the music, proving that their endeavors and passions extend past the booth. Listeners can tune in Sunday, June 25 at 8:00 p.m. ET to see who wins the BET Award for Best Male Hip Hop Artist.
21 Savage
21 Savage is a Male BET Hip Hop Award nominee whose career continues to ascend. In the past year, he’s been a part of some of the biggest rap albums. Such efforts include his joint project with Drake, Her Loss to his stand-out contributions to Metro Boomin’s Heroes & Villains. Her Loss featured 21 delivering a “timestamp song” — a signature offering in Drake’s career. Plus, he appeared as the only feature on Honestly, Nevermind (“Jimmy Cooks”).” In addition to his monstrous commercial success, 21 also delivered some stellar features on Metro’s soundtrack for Across The Spider-Verse and “Peaches & Eggplants” from Young Nudy’s Gumbo. 21 closed out the year on a high note after linking up with Hit-Boy and Nas on “One Mic, One Gun,” an offering that put an end to his short-lived “feud” with Nas.
Drake’s nomination for Best Male Hip Hop Artist comes as no surprise. In fact, it would have been a shock if he wasn’t nominated. Drake has basically been nominated every year no matter how much music he has recently put out. Although he only released one song this year with “Search & Rescue,” he’s coming off of a prolific run in 2022 that included the release of two albums: Her Loss and Honestly, Nevermind, which may find its way back into people’s rotation as the summer parties begin. As of late, he appeared with J Hus on “Who Told You” for a potential summer anthem.
Future’s nomination in the Best Male Hip-Hop Artist category at the 2023 BET Awards comes after another dominating year. The success of his collaboration with Drake and Tems on “WAIT FOR U” officially reached triple-platinum status. This single came from Future’s 2022 album, I NEVER LIKED YOU, which marked his triumphant return after a brief hiatus. However, his presence remained prominent throughout the year with stand-out features on Gunna’s DS4, Metro Boomin’s Heroes & Villains, and the recent Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse soundtrack. As of late, he appeared on the soundtrack for The Idol alongside The Weeknd, who also co-created and stars in the show. Additionally, he teased a new project with Metro Boomin. It’s safe to say that his unmistakable voice can be heard all over recent tracks all over the rap world.
J. Cole is a BET Best Male Hip-Hop Artist Nominee who has hinted at possibly making his way out of the rap game. He still has a few albums due out before he formally retires and he’s certainly making the most out of his time. His spree of features in the past year alone has shocked many of his fans. Cole has not only proved his versatility but also his genuine interest in artists outside of his lane. His feature on Lil Durk’s “All My Life” became widely celebrated upon its release. Just months prior, he teamed up with j-hope of BTS for “on the street.” Plus, he came through alongside Dreamville for the Creed III soundtrack and had a hell of a feature run in 2022 with appearances on Benny The Butcher’s “Johnny P’s Caddy,” and Bia’s “London.”
Jack Harlow is one of the youngest artists to be nominated for a BET Award 2023 for Best Male Hip-Hop Artist. He also stands out because he’s the only nominee in the category to release an album in 2023 with Jackman. The project is one of his most personal to date and also showcases his ear for production. Although it didn’t top the charts like his 2022 album, Harlow remains one of the most popular rappers in the game today. He secured a Drake feature with his song “Churchill Downs” and his hit “First Class” became one of the biggest songs of 2022. He also appeared on DJ Drama’s 2023 album I’M REALLY LIKE THAT and stars in the White Men Can’t Jump remake.
Kendrick Lamar’s BET Award 2023 Best Male Hip-Hop Artist nomination comes during a victory lap of sorts for his career. His most recent album, Mr. Morale and The Big Steppers was his last one on Top Dawg Entertainment, the label that launched his career. Still, it appears that he might have more music in store. He appeared on Beyoncé’s “AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM (Remix)” and recently dropped “The Hillbillies” with frequent collaborator (and cousin) Baby Keem. The track finds Kendrick doing something he deserves to do at this point in his career: having fun. After a five-year hiatus, Kendrick Lamar’s return to the fold certainly didn’t disappoint fans. He’s undoubtedly a strong contender in the Best Male Hip-Hop Artist category.
Lil Baby is a 2023 BET Award Best Male Artist nominee who many saw rise to fame in real-time. He’s put in the work to get where he is today. He’s dropped one single this year but he’s unveiled a string of excellent guest appearances, including his verse on DJ Khaled’s “STAYING ALIVE” with Drake. His latest accomplishment has been joining Tears for Fears to create the Budweiser Anthem of the FIFA World Cup in 2022. Beyond that, his star-profile continues to increase with endorsement deals with brands like AXE. Lil Baby’s success is a testament to the years of labor he’s put in over the years. He’s shown what the power of commitment and perseverance can result in the long run.
The BET Awards air on Sunday, June 25, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. ET.
: Courtesy of BET 
