From three-time host Taraji P. Henson to the star-studded female forward tribute to Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Usher Raymond, the 2024 BET Awards seemed to be a celebration of Black women artists.
Culture’s biggest night featured star-studded performances, first-time wins and impeccable fashion choices. In typical fashion, Black female performers stole the spotlight. From Megan Thee Stallion’s strong open to Tyla’s unbelievable performance of “Jump,” the BET Awards showed the range of talent among female artists. First-time performers, Sexxy Red and Tanner Adell, proved that they were destined to grace the stage with their energetic performances.
If you weren’t watching culture’s biggest night, check out these top moments from the 2024 BET Awards.
Megan Thee Stallion Sets The Tone With Her Strong Open
With her sold-out tour and the release of her third studio album, Megan Thee Stallion is once again claiming the summer. The “Hot Girl Coach” set the tone for culture’s biggest night with a high-energy opening performance. Performing a melody of songs from her latest album, including “Hiss,” and “Where Them Girls At,” the Houston Hottie brought everyone to their feet. Dressed in an army green outfit with matching boots, Megan Thee Stallion ended her performance with her signature “ahh” tongue move.
Host Taraji P. Henson Remixes Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us”
Since its release in April, Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” has become a summer anthem. It’s only right that three-time host Taraji P. Henson opened up the show with her own rendition. In an outfit resembling Lamar’s from his Juneteenth concert, Henson remixed the lyrics, promoting celebrating Black culture and togetherness.
Victoria Monét’s Performance Features Live Jacket Switch
If the Grammy Awards and writing credits weren’t enough, then Victoria Monét’s BET Awards debut performance showed her undeniable talent. Kicking off the performance with “On My Mama,” Monét recreated the music video. Her and her crew wore oversized white tees, baggy jeans and varsity jackets. They performed the one-take jacket switch live, before the music cut and a white tuxedo jacket in a glass case symbolized the switch to the next song. Joined by Kaytranada, Monét performed their vibrant hit “Alright.” She closed out the performance dancing in water in a shimmering bikini. With three outfit changes, choreography and vocal range, Monét once again put on a show-stopping performance.
Usher Raymond’s Female Forward Tribute
With the exception of Childish Gambino, Usher Raymond’s Lifetime Achievement Award tribute was all women. From Keke Palmer dropping her embezzled pants on stage during “You Make Me Wanna” to Coco Jones’ sultry serenades for “There Goes My Baby,” the R&B legend was honored by Black women powerhouses. With callbacks spanning his career, including Monét and Teyana Taylor recreating Beyoncé and Usher’s 2004 iconic “Bad Girl” performance, the tribute was unforgettable.
VanVan and Heiress Harris Perform “Be You”
In possibly the most adorable moment on stage, VanVan and Heiress Harris performed their anthem “Be You.” With posters paying homage to HBCUs and a class room setting, the duo’s encouraging lyrics reminded the audience to be their authentic selves.
Lauryn Hill Closes With YG Marley and Special Guest Wyclef
Lauryn Hill, along with YG Marley and special guest Wyclef, closed the show with a 13-minute performance. Performing fan-favorite songs, like “Lost Ones” and “Fu-Gee-La,” and the instant classic “Praise Jah In The Moonlight,” the trio provided the perfect ending for an entertaining evening at the BET Awards.