Hola What’s Hot Fam,
To no surprise, the 2023 BET Hip Hop Awards was centered around the genre’s 50th anniversary. The show aired Tuesday, October 10, and was again hosted by rapper and co-executive producer Fat Joe. Tip “T.I.” Harris, Nelly, City Girls, Fabolous, Juvenile, Mannie Fresh, Tyrese, Sexyy Red, DJ Jazzy Jeff, DJ Holiday, D-Nice, and Technician the DJ were among the performers.
In chronological order, here are a few of my favorite moments from the show:
1. Da Baby Pays Homage With Performance Featuring Sexxy Red, Mannie Fresh and Juvenile
DaBaby kicked off the night in a firefighter-themed ensemble with his recent hit “SHAKE SUMN.” He was soon joined by “Skee Yee” star Sexxy Red who calmly delivered her verse for the track’s remix. The Memphis artist rocked her signature red inches along with some custom leather shorts.
Trading in his overalls and fitted hat for a “Big Worm” wig, DaBaby welcomed Mannie Fresh and Juvenile on stage for “Project Bxtch.” The performance comes shortly after Juvenile’s viral Tiny Desk performance of the song.
2. JT Makes Solo Debut with “No Bars”
JT stepped out in a distressed all black outfit to perform her solo track “No Bars,”
As recently reported by Interview, the Miami rapper recently confirmed she has a new EP in the works that she’s hoping to release at the start of 2024.
However, JT quickly reminded fans that the City Girls are very much still a thing during the awrds.
“BET – It’s City Girls shit. Even when you think it ain’t City Girl shit,” she said as a cue for Yung Miami to join her on stage.
The next City Girls album may drop this month, but a title has not been released.
3. DJ Marley Marl Accepts “I Am Hip Hop” Award
Introduced by producers and musicians, Swizz Beatz and Timbaland, DJ Marley Marl accepted his award and shared a bit about how he got his start. LL Cool J and Rakim performed a special tribute for the honoree and Swizz was sure to emphasize that Marl originated the practice of sampling of music in Hip Hop.
4. Jermaine Dupri, Ludacris, Lil John, Nelly and More Take Us Back Atlanta Style
Snap Yo Fingers, Pullin’ Me Back and I Think They Like Me were among many of the nostalgic hits performed during the So So Def medley.
This performance definitely had the show’s audience members on their feet and singing along. Led by Jermaine Dupri, artists like DaBrat, Bow Wow and Tyrese took viewers on an energetic music trip.
5. DJ Drama Brings Out Fabolous, T.I., and Jeezy
The celebration of hip hop over the years continued with DJ Drama who opened his “Trap Muzik” segment by bringing Fabolous to the stage to perform Killin Em’. In a smooth transition, T.I. made his entrance to perform his hits Dope Boyz and Rubber Band Man.
A highlight for trap music fans, Jeezy joined the performance rapping Trap or Die and Get Ya Mind Right.
What was your favorite part of the show? Comment below!