The most memorable moments and major victories at the BET Awards 2023, from surprise reunions to powerful acceptance speeches. Discover the artists who took home prestigious awards and left a lasting impact on the cultural event of the year.
Photo Credit: BET Awards 2023
Culture’s Biggest Night was a night to remember. The BET Awards 2023 have officially concluded, and we’ve compiled a list of the finest moments of the night as well as anything you might have missed during the almost four-hour-long program. There were unexpected performances, show-stopping medleys, and guest appearances, as well as significant victories for some of the greatest names in entertainment, including SZA, Latto, Beyoncé, Drake, Coco Jones, and more.
On Sunday, June 25, the BET Awards 2023 were presented at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. As a result of the current Writers Guild of America strike, the awards event went without a host for the first time in its 23-year existence. Opening sensational performance by Lil Uzi Vert.
The show did not disappoint, even without a script. Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary was honored throughout the night by musicians from all over the country and the world—Nigeria, South Africa, and Jamaica were all in attendance. Special medley performances honored hip-hop’s past events, from its golden era to the streaming era.
One of the most memorable moments of the evening came when Migos members Quavo and Offset made a surprise reunion onstage to honor their late friend and nephew, Takeoff, who was tragically killed seven months prior. The unexpected reunion between Quavo and Offset was especially significant, as rumors of their estrangement had been circulating for months. With the entire crowd on their feet, the duo performed a part of Takeoff’s verse from “Hotel Lobby” before declaring, “Do it for Take.” A giant image of Takeoff adorned the stage screen behind them as they launched into their 2016 smash hit “Bad and Boujee.”
Coco Jones, the rising star known for her hit song “ICU,” took home the trophy for Best New Artist. In her emotional acceptance speech, she delivered a special message for Black girls, inspiring them to keep pushing and fighting for what they deserve. She emphasized the importance of perseverance and encouraged Black girls to believe in their greatness.
Another unforgettable moment occurred when Sexyy Red, a breakout star, took the opportunity during a commercial break to give an impromptu performance of her viral hit “Pound Town.” The energy in the room skyrocketed as she hyped up the audience members around her, showcasing her talent and captivating the crowd.
Ice Spice, the Bronx-born artist who recently graced the cover of June Teen Vogue, delivered a mesmerizing performance that paid homage to her hometown. With a set design that recreated a local subway stop, complete with a DJ stationed inside a bodega, Ice Spice transported the audience to the streets of the Bronx. She even recreated the iconic basketball court scene from her “Munch” music video, descending from the air while sitting on a basketball hoop, leaving everyone in awe.
Latto, the winner of the Best Female Hip Hop Artist award, had a humorous wardrobe malfunction during her acceptance speech. Her high heel got caught on the train of her gown, but she didn’t let it faze her. Latto simply kicked off the shoe and continued with her empowering speech, celebrating the accomplishments of women in the industry and shouting out fellow female rappers who should have been included in the category.
The most poignant moment of the night belonged to Busta Rhymes, who received the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award. With tears in his eyes, Busta delivered a passionate speech that spanned over 13 minutes, reflecting on his storied career and calling for unity among the new generation of hip-hop artists. He urged them to put aside petty beefs and focus on the collective success of the genre, emphasizing the importance of love and collaboration.
Busta’s tribute performance featured a star-studded lineup of artists, including Missy Elliott, Mary J. Blige, and Kendrick Lamar. The medley included some of Busta’s biggest hits, such as “Woo Hah!! Got You All in Check,” “Pass the Courvoisiere,” and “Touch It.” The stage was transformed into a visual spectacle with elaborate sets, pyrotechnics, and synchronized dancers. Busta’s energy was infectious, and the audience couldn’t help but sing and dance along.
In terms of awards, SZA and Beyoncé were the night’s big winners, each taking home three trophies. SZA’s critically acclaimed album “SOS” and Beyoncé’s groundbreaking “Renaissance” tied for Album of the Year, a testament to their musical genius. SZA also won the Best Female R&B/Pop Artist award and the Video of the Year award for her visually stunning and thought-provoking “Kill Bill” music video.
Beyoncé’s awards included the Viewer’s Choice award and the BET Her honor for her soul-stirring anthem “Break My Soul.” Chris Brown and Usher tied for the Best Male R&B/Pop Artist award, showcasing the incredible talent in the genre.
Drake and 21 Savage took home the Best Group award, while Latto’s win solidified her position as the Best Female Hip Hop Artist. Kendrick Lamar was crowned the Best Male Hip Hop Artist, a well-deserved recognition of his lyrical prowess and impact on the culture.
The BET Awards 2023 also recognized the worldwide effect of music, with DJ and producer Uncle Waffles highlighting South Africa’s amapiano genre, a blend of deep house, jazz, and lounge music. K.O, a South African rapper nominated for Best International Act, spoke on his personal journey and the transforming influence of hip-hop in his society.
Outside the main event, the BET Awards Pink Carpet showcased stunning fashion and style moments. Sunglasses were a popular accessory, with many artists sporting Loewe’s Mask Sunglasses featuring iridescent lenses. Stacked bangles were a trend among female artists, who used them to showcase their personal style and add a touch of glamour to their outfits. The event also celebrated the versatility of Black hair, with sculptural hairstyles and unique hairpieces taking center stage.
The BET Awards 2023 proved to be a night filled with music, inspiration, and unforgettable moments. From surprise performances to heartfelt acceptance speeches, the event celebrated the diverse talent and contributions of Black artists while honoring the past, present, and future of hip-hop. As the curtain fell, it left an indelible mark on the audience, solidifying its status as “culture’s biggest night” and setting the stage for even greater celebrations in the years to come.
Scroll down for the complete list of 2023 BET Awards winners –
Album of the year
Renaissance – Beyoncé (TIE)
Video of the year
“Kill Bill” – SZA
Best female R&B/pop artist
SZA
Best male R&B/pop artist
Usher (TIE)
Chris Brown (TIE)
Best female hip-hop artist
Latto
Best male hip-hop artist
Kendrick Lamar
Best new artist
Coco Jones
Best collaboration
“Wait for U” – Future featuring Drake & Tems
Viewer’s choice Award
“Break My Soul” – Beyoncé
Best international act
Burna Boy (Nigeria)
Viewer’s choice: best new international act
Libianca (Cameroon)
BET Her Award
“Break My Soul” – Beyoncé
Dr. Bobby Jones best gospel/inspirational award
“Bless Me” – Maverick City Music & Kirk Franklin
Video director of the year
Teyana “Spike Tey” Taylor
Best Movie
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
Best Actor
Damson Idris
Best Actress
Angela Bassett
Sportswoman of the Year Award
Angel Reese
Sportsman of the Year Award
Jalen Hurts
Lifetime Achievement Award
YoungStars Award
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