by Ify Obi
Held Sunday evening at the Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles, The 2023 edition of the BET Awards served historic moments.
The 50th anniversary of hip-hop was celebrated with performances from the genre's leading names over the decades, including the women of rap such as Remy Ma and Trina, as well as women hip-hop pioneers MC Lyte and Yo-Yo. The evening also featured a special tribute performance to the late Tina Turner.
Cameroonian singer Libianca gave a rendition of her hit single, "People", at the Pre-Show. The emotive anthem earned the artist the Best New International Act award beating out Raye, FLO, Pabi Cooper, Asake, and more.
Though she lost her nominations for Best Female R&B/Pop Artist to SZA and Viewer’s Choice to Beyonce, Tems came out on top with her third nomination of the ceremony. With her hit single "Wait For U" alongside Drake and Future, she earned the Best Collaboration award.
SZA's formidable album, SOS, tied with Beyonce's Renaissance for Album of the Year. She, however, beat out Beyonce to win the Best Female R&B/Pop Artist. And her electrifying video for "Kill Bill", won Video of the Year.
The evening also featured a special tribute performance by Patti LaBelle to the late Tina Turner.
Other big winners include; Coco Jones for Best New Artist, Teyana “Spice Tey” Taylor for Video Director of the Year, and Latto for Best Female Hip Hop Artist.