The BET Awards had a lot to live up to this year. With COVID-19 social distancing orders forcing the annual award show to go virtual, BET was faced with the challenges of delivering something entertaining and substantive without the usual show format to rely on.
To top that, viewers expected the show to represent black excellence while simultaneously being the sounding board for the black community and the current racial climate of the U.S.
Well, these challenges actually elevated the show and gave it a spicy edge that it hasn’t had since the days of Beyonce and Jay-Z performances.
Speaking of Beyonce, she was given the Humanitarian Award, presented by our First Lady Michelle Obama. During her acceptance speech, Beyonce asked everyone to vote in order to carry out the agenda sparked by the nationwide protests.
One of the major highlights of the show was the host Amanda Seales. A spokesperson for the brutal truth encapsulated in cynical intellect, the comedian and actress delivered thought-provoking and laughable moments throughout the show, including a “karen” skit spoofing white women who plot to call the police on black people.
Another highlight of the show was the performances. The names of black people who have died at the hands of police were acknowledged in show performances and speaking intermissions.
Each artist had customized sets at their own unique locations. The result was a creative collection of performances that played like a string of music videos. A nice touch considering the circumstances.
Winners of the night included Roddy Ricch for Album of the Year and Best New Artist, Megan Thee Stallion for Best Female Hip Hop Artist, Lizzo for Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, Migos for Best Group, Burna Boy for Best International Act, DaBaby for Best Male Hip Hop Artists, Chris Brown for Best Male R&B/Pop Artist, Teyana Taylor for Director of the Year and DJ Khaled, Nipsey Hussle and John Legend won the Video of the Year award.
Check out some of the performances below:
