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This past weekend’s celebration of African American talent in music, sports, acting and other entertainment was a success! The BET Awards this year was HUGE and it was filled with so many memorable moments. Celebrities such as Janet Jackson, P. Diddy, Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Tori Kelly, and Smokey Robinson were all in attendance! This year, Black-ish’s Tracee Ellis Ross and Anthony Anderson were the hosts and two of the funniest sources of entertainment for the night! In case you missed the big event, we’ve got all of the highlights!

Tracee Ellis Ross and Anthony Anderson

The main stars of ABC’s Black-ish hosted the event—and we couldn’t think of anybody better for the job! 

Kendrick Lamar Slays the Opening

Kendrick kicked off the show with a performance of his song Alright, from his newest album, To Pimp A Butterfly! He emphasized his performance with visuals, props and effects about black resilience in America during tragic times. 

Bad Boy Records Reunion

Diddy reunited with Bad Boy Record stars, Lil Kim, 112, Mase, and Faith Evans to pay tribute to one of the biggest record labels in music history!

Empire Cast Performance

Jussie Smollett, Yaz, and Serayah performed three songs from the TV hit, Empire—”No Worries,” “You’re So Beautiful” and “Drip Drop,” before Jussie gave a touching speech on freedom and marriage equality in America. 

Nicki Minaj’s Acceptance Speech

Nicki Minaj won best female rap artist for the sixth year in a row and this year, she brought her mother on stage with her to accept the award. “It’s the first time the world’s going to see her,” Nicki said as she thanked her mother. She even paid homage to fellow nominee, Dej Loaf, who will be joining Nicki on her tour.

Sam Smith Won “Best New Artist”

It was an amazing moment when it was announced that Sam Smith won the award for Best New Artist! Anthony Anderson, who was dressed up as Sam, accepted the award on his behalf. “Sam Smith, congratulations brother on your much deserved award, you come by my house next week and pick it up,” Anthony said as he closed his acceptance speech. 

Janet Jackson’s Grand Tribute

BET honored Janet Jackson with the Ultimate Icon: Music Dance Visual Award. Tinashe, Ciara, and Jason Derulo paid homage to the iconic performer by carrying out some of her famous choreography! 

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Kristen Adaway is a sophomore at the University of Georgia with a slight obsession of Twizzlers, writing and watching corny Lifetime flicks. When she's not consumed with meetings in almost every organization on campus, you can find her writing at Slant News or rocking out to Rihanna in her room. Kristen is pursuing a degree in Journalism with a minor in Sociology, and hopes to one day write for a digital publication.