2023 BET Awards Archives - Page 3 of 3

2023 BET Awards: Check Out The Viewer’s Choice Nominees

June 14, 2023 by newhiphopnews

The Viewer’s Choice Award offers a rare opportunity for fans to have their input at the 2023 BET Awards. As a result, its list of singles often comprises of hip-hop and R&B’s biggest tracks of the past year. The last award winner was Megan Thee Stallion’s “Savage” remix featuring Beyoncé. This year’s list is just as star-studded, featuring one of seven nominations for Drake and Afrobeat icon Burna Boy. Consequently, we’re diving into the commercial success and overarching importance of each of the eight nominations.

“About Damn Time” – Lizzo

“About Damn Time” is a feel-good anthem through and through. Lizzo has always had an innate talent for blending commercial appeal with sonic experimentation. In addition, her pristine vocals cut through just about any form of sound. With her lead single for 2022’s Special, the 35-year-old opted for a disco-infused cut. With dance music having a breakthrough year, it made sense for Lizzo to capitalize on its reinvigorated relevancy. Featuring a churning bassline and booming vocals from Lizzo, “About Damn Time” had hit appeal written all over it. It certainly delivered, reaching the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Break My Soul” – Beyoncé

“Break My Soul” was a perfect prelude to the rest of Renaissance. Crooning over bouncing Nola drums, the narrative focus of the track is on maintaining positivity throughout the struggles of daily life. A modern-day version of Oliver Cheatam’s “Saturday Night,” the lead single peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard charts. “Break My Soul” was a frustrated outcry in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, inspiring listeners to keep moving forward amidst the painful monotony and insulation of quarantine. It’s a Beyoncé dance anthem through and through, throwing it back to Studio 54.

“First Class” – Jack Harlow

Jack Harlow has always had a certain level of effortless swagger and bravado to his sound. Consequently, these traits have catapulted him to widespread mainstream success. Sampling Fergie’s “Glamorous,” “First Class” had the marketing armor and catchiness to be an instant hit. “First Class” sees Harlow marveling at his newfound Hollywood status, as the Louisiana native triumphantly states, “I got visions of my mom saying, ‘Wait, this house mine?’” The alpha track off of Come Home The Kids Miss You solidified Harlow as a mainstream force.

“Jimmy Cooks” – Drake ft. 21 Savage

Drake’s Honestly, Nevermind was a mixed bag of Baltimore-influenced dance tracks. However, the outro track “Jimmy Cooks” was a stark detour from the rest of the project. Amid meandering horns and heavy bass, the track quickly caught on as the commercial standout. “Jimmy Cooks” acted as a prelude to the collaborative 21 Savage effort Her Loss, eclipsing 500 million streams on Spotify. For fans that hadn’t taken to Drake’s attempts at experimentation, the track was a reminder of what he can do over a menacing trap beat.

“Kill Bill” – SZA

Grounded in the solemness of feminine icon Princess Diana, SOS was narratively focused on SZA’s struggles with loneliness and past relationships. While the record experienced wild commercial success, no track did more damage on the charts than “Kill Bill.” SZA painfully states, “Hate to see you with some other broad / know you happy” and “Rather be in Hell than alone.” Layered with lofi drums and blissful vocals from SZA, the solo track has eclipsed the billion-stream mark. Her most recent release was a long-awaited moment in her career, with fans waiting five years after the release of CTRL.

“Last Last” – Burna Boy

Burna Boy has had a swaggering, star-studded past calendar year. The African artist just got done headlining a stadium in the UK. Now he’s a Viewer’s Choice nominee at 2023’s BET Awards. “Last Last” edged Burna Boy into the UK mainstream. The track blended Afrobeats with pop, hip-hop, and R&B into what became the song of the summer. The crowning single off of his sixth studio album Love, Damini, Burna’s brazen personality and kaleidoscopic influences will make him a UK unifier for years to come.

“Super Freaky Girl” – Nicki Minaj

“Super Freaky Girl” dominated the TikTok space for weeks, which makes perfect sense when listening to the tongue-in-cheek nature of the hit song. A 2023 BET Awards Viewer’s Choice nomination will be like adding a penny to your piggy bank for hip-hop icon Nicki Minaj, whose career has featured a slew of Grammy nominations and performances. “Super Freaky Girl” features an abrasiveness and crafty hook appeal, echoing a succeeding single to 2014’s “Anaconda.” Even if it doesn’t stand out as a unique sonic moment in Minaj’s deep discography, it’s experienced wild commercial success. It’s going to be a big 2023 for the queen of hip-hop, who has an album on the way later this year.

“Wait For U” – Future ft. Drake & Tems

“Wait For U” is a straightforward somber R&B cut and a slight detour from what much of Future’s I NEVER LIKED YOU sounds like. Full of melodic trap anthems, the Tems sample is undeniably the track’s highlight. However, Future and Drake each carry a subdued tone throughout “Wait For U.” Future states, “I can hear your tears when they drop over the phone,” expressing frustration at how his lifestyle gets in the way of intimate relationships. The track has morphed into the most commercially successful track from Future’s most recent project. I NEVER LIKED YOU has been widely held as one of the best records from the Atlanta icon to date.

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2023 BET Awards: A Look Into Nominees For Best Actor

June 14, 2023 by newhiphopnews

The 2023 BET Awards will be held on June 25, and the ceremony is set to take place in Los Angeles, California. Nominations have been announced, and the Best Actor Award is up for grabs by many notable names. Seven incredible actors are nominated, and it’s anyone’s guess who will take home the coveted trophy. The award covers both television and film work, making for an even tighter competition.

Will Smith is the current holder, winning for his performance in the biopic King Richard. Michael B. Jordan and Denzel Washington are the actors with the most wins in this category, with three each. Jordan has the chance to break this tie, as he’s up for his sixth nomination for his work in Creed III. Actors Amin Joseph and Lil Meech have each received the first nods in the category, joining the other nominees. The award covers one or multiple acting performances during the eligibility period, so while some actors may be nominated for one role, others may score nods for multiple performances. Here are the nominees for the BET Award for Best Actor.

Amin Joseph

Since the premiere of Snowfall in 2017, Amin Joseph has been praised for his role as Jerome Saint, the uncle of main character Franklin Saint. After his work on the series for six seasons, Joseph has finally received his first Best Actor nomination at the 2023 BET Awards. His nod is well deserved; his work in the sixth and final season was met with particular acclaim.

Brian Tyree Henry

Brian Tyree Henry’s nomination in this category is thanks to not one but three of his impeccable performances in 2022. The actor received rave reviews for his acting in the final season of Atlanta. His role as “Paper Boi” has garnered acclaim since the show’s premiere in 2016. Furthermore, Henry was lauded for his hilarious performance in the action comedy thriller Bullet Train where he starred as Lemon, a British assassin. Finally, his work in the drama Causeway also received highly positive reviews, making him a trifecta nominee.

Damson Idris

Damson Idris has starred as young drug lord Franklin Saint for an outstanding six seasons on the crime drama, Snowfall. He and the show have both been well-received by fans and critics alike. Idris has also now earned three Best Actor nominations for his work on the show. The 2023 BET Awards will mark the third year in a row that Idris has been up for the coveted trophy. Additionally, he is up for the award alongside his co-star Amin Joseph, who stars as his uncle, Jerome Saint.

Daniel Kaluuya

Thanks to his team-up with Jordan Peele once again in Nope, Daniel Kaluuya has earned another nod at the BET Awards for Best Actor. This marks his third nomination in the category. In 2018, he was nominated for his work in Black Panther and Get Out, while he scored another nomination for starring as real-life Black Panther leader Fred Hampton in the biographical drama Judas and the Black Messiah. Kaluuya, alongside his co-star Keke Palmer received great praise for their work in Nope. The pair, who played siblings, offered contrasting performances while still captivating viewers in their own way.

Demetrius ‘Lil Meech’ Flenory Jr.

Demetrius Flenory Jr. is popularly referred to by his rap moniker Lil Meech. Since 2021, he has starred in the biographical crime drama BMF, or Black Mafia Family. The series is also executive produced by 50 Cent. In BMF, Lil Meech stars as his own real-life father, Demetrius “Big Meech” Flenory. Lil Meech has thanked his father and 50 Cent for the opportunity to take on the role. The actor and rapper has also shared that his Big Meech has seen and appreciates his work on the show.

Donald Glover

With his work on the final season of Atlanta, Donald Glover has scored his third Best Actor nomination. The actor received back-to-back nods in 2017 and 2018 for his role as Earnest Marks in the comedy-drama. Throughout the series’ four-season run, Glover has won numerous awards as the lead actor and creator of the show. He has also won a BET for his work as Childish Gambino, taking home the Video of the Year Award for his groundbreaking single “This Is America.”

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan has now been nominated six times in the Best Actor category. He’s also tied with Denzel Washington as the actor with the most wins, with three each. Jordan’s nod this year comes from his career-defining turn in Creed III, which also served as his directorial debut. The film received positive reviews for its direction, storyline, and acting. His previous wins were for his roles in both Creed and Creed II, as well as his performance in Just Mercy. Creed III has also been nominated for Best Movie at the 2023 BET Awards, so Jordan is up for another potential win in another category.

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2023 BET Awards: Best New Artist Nominees

June 14, 2023 by newhiphopnews

The 2023 BET Awards are going down on Sunday, June 25, and the list for Best New Artist is exclusively female artists. Last year, the award went to Atlanta hip-hop icon Latto. This year’s category is just as stacked, from Top Dawg Entertainment’s Doechii to iconic London trio FLO. During hip-hop’s happy hour, the Best New Artist Award is one of the most anticipated of the night. Today, we’re diving into the rise of this year’s nominees for the prestigious award.

Ambre

It’s been a long road for Ambre to be nominated for any sort of award. Even if she’s now under the “new artist” label, Ambre has been hard at work in the industry for well over half a decade. After initially garnering a fanbase with 2015’s Wanderlust, she finally got her big break in 2019, signing to Jay-Z’s Roc Nation record label.

However, it was 2022’s 3000 that really caught the attention of the music industry at large. Armed with a slew of new connections, the Jvck James-aided “I’m Baby” is nearing 10 million streams on Spotify alone. Growing up in New Orleans, two of her biggest influences were naturally Lil Wayne and jazz icons such as Nat King Cole. Ambre’s sound is an exhilarating blend of both of those worlds, one that has warranted the 26-year-old a nomination for Best New Artist at the 2023 BET Awards.

Coco Jones

It might be an audacious comparison, but Coco Jones’ vocal presence and fearless personality parallel the early days of Beyonce. The double threat also has a burgeoning career as an actor, appearing on Peacock’s Bel-Air as an enforcing Gen-Z icon. Soon after signing with Def Jam, she released her debut project What I Didn’t Tell You. An intimate collection of heartbreaking ballads, Jones wisely doesn’t overproduce the sound. Instead, her piercing vocals take the forefront throughout, a trait most apparent in the soothing “ICU.”

Coco Jones’ stardom has been in the works for a long time. She got her start as a child star for the Disney Channel, appearing in So Random!, Good Luck Charlie, and Let It Shine. Thrown into the pressures of the entertainment industry at a young age, the 25-year-old carries herself with a level-headed approach beyond her years. In essence, she’ll certainly be essential in pushing forward R&B in the coming years.

Doechii

Amidst Kendrick Lamar’s departure and the aging of the L.A. area’s most recent collective of talented MCs, Top Dawg Entertainment has been reinforcing its portfolio over the past few years. There’s perhaps no addition more exciting than Doechii, the first female rapper signed to the label. In 2022, she released the she / her / black b**ch EP, armored with contributions from Rico Nasty and labelmate SZA.

At 24 years old, her musical output has already expressed a unique level of range in the hip-hop world. In addition, Doechii has standout singles to back it up. “Persuasive” has well over 20 million streams on Spotify, while flamboyant banger “What It Is (Block Boy)” ft. Kodak Black has quickly morphed into her most commercially successful track to date. A creative chameleon, Doechii has expressed an ability to dart from menacing rap verses to drawn-out vocal pallets on a dime.

FLO

The electric UK trio of FLO has long been overdue for a large-scale nomination. Comprised of Stella Quaresma, Jorja Douglas, and Renée Downer, the trio has displayed an innate ability to capture the imaginations of a wide variety of audiences. It’s why hip-hop icon Missy Elliott appeared on 2023’s “Fly Girl,” as the potential to bridge the gap between the millennial and Gen-Z counterparts is clear. While their theatrical sound mirrors that of the late ’90s to early ’00s era of R&B, their soaring and polished vocals reflect modern-day production.

However, as evidenced by their recent releases, FLO can be both feisty and sobering. Riding off of the high of their first nationwide tour and the success of the 2022 EP The Lead, the trio is an obvious addition to this year’s BET Awards. Long-term, it will be interesting to see how long the extroverted trio will stick together. Each delivers a unique element, which makes FLO’s sonic boundaries essentially limitless.

GloRilla

It’s been a whirlwind past year for the newfound Queen of Memphis Crunk. After the wild success of “F.N.F. (Let’s Go),” it would only be a few more months before she found herself in a studio with Cardi B. The duo’s “Tomorrow 2” would morph into one of 2022’s biggest hip-hop hits. From appearing in a Sprite commercial to a Grammy nomination, her appearance for Best New Artist at the 2023 BET Awards was just about a given.

GloRilla has been nominated for an astounding six BET Awards, with only Toronto icon Drake being up for more. Her 2022 EP Anyways, Life’s Great, a record that’s put steam behind Memphis’s hip-hop revival, is up for Album Of The Year. The 23-year-old has already hinted at her debut studio album releasing before the end of the year, where she told PopSugar it’s “trying to give different vibes. Stuff that ain’t so harsh.” Even if her success is still in its early stages, GloRilla clearly isn’t going anywhere.

Ice Spice

This one was a given. Ice Spice has damn near run the Internet over the course of 2023. Back in 2021, the 21-year-old became a Tik Tok star before she had even finished recording her first song. However, 2022’s “Munch (Feelin’ U)” was the track that immediately transcended Ice Spice as a pop culture icon. The Drake-cosigned New York drill anthem took over last summer, and she was officially a star.

This year has been ever bigger for Ice Spice. She kicked it off with the release of EP Like..?, which debuted in the top 10 of Billboard’s Top Rap Albums and the top 40 of the Billboard 200. However, her biggest endeavor yet would be a feature on the reworked version of PinkPantheress’ “Boy’s A Liar, Pt. 2,” a track that is astoundingly about to eclipse 500 million streams on Spotify. Ice Spice has also been nominated for three other BET Awards.

Lola Brooke

Lola Brooke has been waiting for her breakout for over the past decade, meticulously chipping away at her rapping skills. Over the past few years, it’s finally begun to pay off for the 29-year-old. The Brooklyn outfit represents everything about her upbringing, from assertive bars to an undeniable ’90s flair. “Don’t Play With It” was her first big break, blowing up on TikTok and attracting the attention of celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and LeBron James.

If there’s anyone deserving of the BET’s 2023 Best New Artist Award, it’s Lola Brooke. Now, she’s got an EP on the way, which is slated to release in the Fall. In addition, Brooke has begun diving into the acting world on East New York.

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2023 BET Awards: Best Female R&B/Pop Artist Nominees

June 14, 2023 by newhiphopnews

It’s that time of year again when the culture prepares for the BET Awards. We recently received the 2023 list of nominees, and it was a collection of talent that didn’t surprise those keeping up with the industry. From Hip Hop and R&B’s elite to those making waves internationally to the thespians taking over the big and small screens, fans are excited to see who takes home the trophy on June 25.

Several of our personal favorites have been singled out for their successes throughout the year. Here, we’re taking a closer look at the Best Female R&B/Pop Artist nominees. These seven women have stormed music and created art, touching millions of fans worldwide. They’ve topped the charts, become viral sensations, and shifted the culture in one way or another. Take a deeper look at these songbirds and let us know who you want to seize the win at the upcoming 2023 BET Awards ceremony.

Ari Lennox

Ari Lennox, a gem in contemporary R&B, hails from the DMV. Starting her illustrious career by sharing her music online, Lennox swiftly signed with Dreamville Records, J. Cole’s venerated label, in 2015. She released her label debut EP Pho in 2016 to critical acclaim, followed by her chart-topping 2019 album, Shea Butter Baby. The album’s title track climbed to No. 12 on Billboard‘s R&B Songs chart, making waves across the industry.

In 2020, she also earned three nominations at the BET Awards. Then, in 2021, Lennox released “Pressure,” demonstrating her continuing evolution and passion for crafting authentic, resonant music. As of the 2023 BET Awards, this charismatic songstress remains a standout, retaining her crown as a powerhouse in the world of R&B. Her blend of vintage and modern styles continues to redefine the genre.

Beyoncé

This one needs no introduction, but we’ll go for it anyway. Global icon Beyoncé kick-started her career with Destiny’s Child but truly cemented her legendary status with her successful solo endeavors. Signing with Columbia Records, she released her debut solo album Dangerously in Love in 2003, further establishing her as a multi-Platinum artist. Beyoncé consistently conquers the charts with each new release, including 2016’s Lemonade and 2019’s The Lion King: The Gift, which both topped the Billboard 200 chart.

The 29-time Grammy Award-winner holds the record for most wins by a woman artist, a remarkable testament to her enduring influence. Her comprehensive catalog also showcases her extraordinary range, punctuated by her innovative visuals. Beyoncé reigns supreme, and her star shines brighter than ever, carving an unforgettable mark in music history.

Coco Jones

South Carolina’s Coco Jones seems like a newcomer R&B sensation, but she’s been in the business for some time. She first garnered attention on Disney Channel, but Jones’s genuine musical talents became evident with her venture into R&B. Her 2020 EP H.D.W.Y under Hollywood Records served as her breakout moment, blending contemporary R&B and pop in a unique, alluring mix. The album charted successfully, establishing Jones as a promising talent in the industry.

Additionally, Coco’s creative output has multiplied. Fans have watched as she’s evolved over the years, earning viral moments that placed her on a global map. A gifted singer, Jones has received recognition from several prestigious institutions, affirming her rising star. Coco Jones’s remarkable journey in the music industry is just beginning; her potential is immense.

H.E.R.

H.E.R. is an enigmatic force in R&B, hailing from Vallejo, California. The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter signed with RCA Records, introducing herself to the world with her self-titled compilation album H.E.R. in 2017. The album enjoyed chart success, signaling her potent arrival in the music industry. Notable hits like “Hard Place” and “Best Part” showcase her raw talent, earning her top spots on Billboard’s R&B charts.

H.E.R.’s artistry and visionary spirit remain paramount. The singer’s debut studio album, 2021’s Back of My Mind, has continued to build upon her established reputation, blending classic R&B with elements of Hip Hop, Soul, and Reggae. She has collected numerous accolades, including four Grammy Awards and an Academy Award for Best Original Song, proving her multifaceted talents. As H.E.R. continues to evolve, her depth, creativity, and magnetism solidify her as a true luminary in modern R&B.

Lizzo

Lizzo is a vibrant talent that has successfully blurred the lines of Pop, Soul, and Hip Hop. Originally from Detroit, this powerhouse signed with Atlantic Records and quickly seized the limelight. Her debut major label album, 2019’s Cuz I Love You, dominated the charts with tracks like “Truth Hurts” and “Good as Hell.” Further, Lizzo has won three Grammy Awards, acknowledging her climb in the industry. Her empowering lyrics and rousing performances make her a force to be reckoned with. Constantly pushing boundaries, Lizzo’s eclectic blend of music and unapologetic authenticity has captivated audiences worldwide. The effervescent star continues to redefine norms, making her an enduring figure in modern pop culture.

SZA

SZA is a captivating presence in modern R&B. In 2013, SZA signed with Top Dawg Entertainment, releasing her acclaimed debut studio album, Ctrl, in 2017. Her distinctive style combines Soul, Hip Hop, and R&B elements, resonating with audiences. Ctrl catapulted up the charts, landing at No. 3 on the Billboard 200. SZA’s notable hits, including “Love Galore” and “The Weekend,” have also achieved multi-Platinum status.

Additionally, SZA has been nominated for nine Grammy Awards, affirming her potent influence in the industry. Her second studio album SOS arrived in 2022 and cemented her position as an artist unafraid to explore vulnerability in her music. SZA continues to redefine the boundaries of R&B with her distinctive lyrical narratives and passionate vocal delivery, forging a lasting legacy.

Tems

Tems is a rising star from Lagos, Nigeria, who has carved a unique niche in the world of alt-R&B. She made waves with her single “Mr Rebel” and subsequently signed with the independent label Leading Vibe Ltd. Tems’ debut EP in 2020 For Broken Ears wove together soulful melodies, earning her recognition from critics, fans, and her peers. The album’s success paved the way for a 2021 collaboration with WizKid on the chart-topping hit “Essence.”

Tems has become a global sensation, and her sophomore EP, If Orange Was a Place in 2021, continued to showcase her rich, earthy vocals. With a promising career ahead, Tems is a bright beacon in the ever-evolving landscape of Afrobeats and R&B.

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2023 BET Awards: Album Of The Year Nominees

June 14, 2023 by newhiphopnews

This year’s AOTY Nominees List at the BET Awards is as stacked as ever. From Beyonce’s dance odyssey, Renaissance to Kendrick Lamar’s Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, it’s anyone’s guess which album will come out on top. Today, we’re looking into the commercial success and wide-ranging influence of each of the respective nominated albums for the 2023 BET Awards AOTY.

GloRilla – Anyways, Life’s Great

Memphis’s rap scene has experienced a resurgence over the past few years, and GloRilla’s currently at the forefront of the sound. Anyways, Life’s Great is certainly an accurate title regarding the 22-year-old’s star-ridden success. Off the heels of her burgeoning Crunk anthems, she took home the win for Breakthrough Hip-Hop Artist Of The Year at the 2022 BET Awards. With the support of hip-hop icon Cardi B on “Tomorrow 2,” GloRilla is back for more in 2023.

Anyways, Life’s Great is brief, running at nine tracks. However, it’s probably wise for a young artist still looking to find her footing. Her debut EP certainly sets her in the right direction as GloRilla audaciously blends gangster rap with crisp snares and rumbling drums. Still, Anyways, Life’s Great isn’t a straightforward collection of rap anthems. She’s been through poverty, abortion, and personal betrayals, she’s effective at expressing her personal shortcomings on the 26-minute project. GloRilla is perfectly positioned to push forward Memphis’s hip-hop landscape for years to come.

Chris Brown – Breezy

It would be a lie to say that Chris Brown’s nomination isn’t a mild shock to hip-hop fans. It’s been just about a decade since the peak of the high-octane vocalists’ relevancy. Since then, his discography has been littered with one lackluster album after another. However, R&B fans still remember a time when Chris Brown carried the genre on his shoulders. When the genre was being shunned in favor of pop anthems, its resurgence can largely be attributed to the 34-year-old.

Luckily for Chris Brown fans, the Virginia native knew he had to do something different on Breezy. At an hour and a half, there are plenty of snoozers. However, at least, he’s not shooting for the 3-hour film layouts of previous projects. The “short” timeline works in his favor. “Harder” contains heavy D’Angelo influence in its sonic and vocal pallets, while “Forbidden” is an exhilarating throwback to Chris Brown’s chart-topping days. While there are plenty of flaws, Breezy has just enough moments where the R&B veteran is at his best.

DJ Khaled – God Did

If DJ Khaled really wanted to, he could ditch the whole music thing and play golf for a living. As long as it’s on video, he’ll have millions of fans re-posting his content. Over the past few years, the Miami multi-millionaire has become just as well-known for his downright goofy antics as he has for a deeply impressive hip-hop discography. However, the commercial success of God Did was always going to make it difficult to leave off of BET Awards’ 2023 AOTY list.

Solidifying his role as a savvy curator, all of the heavy hitters are on God Did. Drake, Lil Baby, 21 Savage, SZA, and Don Toliver are only a few members of the hall-of-fame cast on DJ Khaled’s most recent delivery. Outside of DJ Khaled being slightly more omnipresent, the plodding beats and rapturous autotune are all indicative of what he’s done over the past decade. While God Did has brief moments that hint at a creator who may want to push the boundaries, they’re too few and far between. However, DJ Khaled still does what he does best: curate the big numbers on a project that demands a listen off of feature notoriety alone.

Drake & 21 Savage – Her Loss

The North and South collided on 2022’s hit collaboration, Her Loss. In many ways, the project signified a return to form after an up-and-down few years for the Canadian rapper. That isn’t to say that Drake’s Honestly, Nevermind was a failure. However, there’s no denying that the dance anthems yielded mixed results at best. Her Loss got the duo back to what they do best; bar out amidst heavy trap-laced beats.

Even if the quasi-collaboration album is hit or miss, Her Loss’s booming commercial success and the addition of bangers such as “Rich Flex” and “Treacherous Twins” makes it more than worth a listen. While each has already solidified their respective legacies, Drake sounded far more revitalized on Her Loss than he did on his previous two albums. Sure, the chemistry isn’t always there between Drake and 21 Savage since the project occasionally feels like a Drake project that simply happens to contain the occasional contribution from 21 Savage. However, Her Loss is the best we’ve heard from Drizzy in years, which is more than enough to land the project a 2023 BET Awards AOTY nomination.

Kendrick Lamar – Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers

If Kendrick Lamar had stopped releasing music after DAMN., he would still be an all-time great. However, fans were always going to want more from the 35-year-old. Returning after a five-year spiritual hiatus, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers sees the Compton MC as introspective as ever. Questioning his own biases and reflecting on the Black plight, tracks such as “Savior” or “Crown” features a level of soul-searching introspective that we haven’t seen from Kenny.

However, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers isn’t just a collection of harrowing or dark ballads. Kendrick Lamar spends too much time around Baby Keem for that to be the case. “N95” and “Die Hard” are more light-hearted in their approach, contributing to Kendrick’s recording breaking worldwide tour for the project. If there was a shoo-in nomination for BET Award’s 2023 AOTY, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers was probably it.

Beyonce – Renaissance

Beyonce returned to the dancefloor on Renaissance. A rich celebration of club music and the spirit of a Friday night after work, the pop icon just wanted to have fun after an extended run of deeply conceptual albums. Renaissance is a direct response to the pandemic, packaged as an hour of exhilarating fan service that’s intended to be listened to outside. At 41 years old, Beyonce is still finding ways to extend her sonic pallet beyond the growing discography of critically acclaimed albums.

Spearheaded by “Break My Soul,” Renaissance debuted at Number One on the US Billboard 200 Charts. Did we even have to say it? Beyonce has been at the top of the game for decades and doesn’t appear to be slowing down anytime soon. At its core, Renaissance is an ode to Black Queer icons and their unmatched influence on House and dance music at large. However, it’s a sound that’s bound to latch onto any ear it graces. You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who’s not entranced by the ’90s-infused house anthems on Beyonce’s Renaissance.

SZA – SOS

The wait was worth it for SZA’s raging fanbase. Months after the release of the wildly successful Ctrl, stans were already crying out for her next project. Unfortunately for them, they’d have to wait another four and a half years for SZA’s shimmering vocal range to once again grace the charts. Consequently, SOS is over an hour long. Spearheaded by “Kill Bill,” her sophomore studio album dominated the charts for months, making it a more than a logical addition for BET.

Her most daring project to date, she tackles new sonic territory that mirrors inspirations such as Joni Mitchell or Minnie Riperton. We even get a folk ballad in the form of “F2F,” while the Phoebe Bridgers-aided “Ghost in the Machine” shoots for an ethereal soundscape mirroring SZA’s struggles with loneliness. In fact, much of SOS sees her reflecting on failed past relationships and new beginnings. It’s mirrored in the Princess Diana-inspired album cover, where SZA is engulfed in the solemness of the ocean. Both solitary and beautiful, SOS is arguably the 33-year-old’s best work to date.

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