![]() It was a stirring emotional climax for a telecast that was completely revamped to recognize the legacy of Jackson, who died Thursday at age 50. “To us, Michael is family and he will forever live in all of our hearts.” “To you, Michael is an icon,” a somber Janet Jackson told the crowd at the end of Sunday’s Black Entertainment Television Awards show. In her first public appearance since her brother Michael’s shocking death, Janet Jackson memorialized him as her beloved sibling and vowed his memory would live forever. Public Enemy sang a lively version of “Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud” that brought the audience to its feet and the show to a close.Some of the biggest stars on the planet turned back into gushing Michael Jackson fans at the BET Awards, donning single gloves, swapping stories about their idol and singing The King of Pop’s standards. Brown was tuned into your soul.” He then referred to the tribute as one to Brown's dedication to the struggle. Al Sharpton introduced the musical performance stating, “James Brown was a vocalist that embodied soul music. The night was not complete without a tribute to the “Godfather of Soul.” Rev. In a sleek black tux, Cheadle “graciously and humbly” said thank you and that he hopes to work more with the Black community in raising awareness of the crisis. You can stand tall, be ladies and gents, and have a long career.”īefore exiting the stage Ross said, “It took me a long time to get here and I ain't going nowhere.”īET president and CEO, Debora Lee presented actor and activist Don Cheadle with this year’s BET Humanitarian Award for his efforts in raising awareness of the genocide in Darfur. The 63-year-old who called herself a young diva added, “You don't have to say the f-word or pump and grind and things like that to have longevity. Her five children – Rhonda, Tracee, Chudney, Ross and Evan – introduced their mother who graced the stage in a flowing red gown and voiced her gratitude stating, “It’s been an incredible journey.” Ross' career that spans nearly five decades was highlighted in performances by Erykah Badu, Chaka Khan and Stevie Wonder. …She is the very definition of a living legend.” Stated presenter Alicia Keys, “When it comes to raw talent, there are only two words that I think of – Diana Ross. The mood changed at the announcement of this year's BET Lifetime Achievement honoree. The tear-filled audience was visibly moved by their rendition as they swayed and shook their heads in disbelief of Gerald’s untimely death. He was joined by the unmistakable vocals of Gladys Knight, Yolanda Adams and LaBelle. But it was Patti LaBelle who gave an emotional introduction to an emotional tribute to the late Gerald Levert.Įddie Levert hushed audience members with the start of “Wind Beneath My Wings” as a pictorial of his son as a backdrop. ![]() Blige for “Runaway Love ” Best New Artist – Jennifer Hudson Best Male Athlete – LeBron James Best Female Athlete – Serena Williams BETJ Cool Like That – Gerald Levert Best Gospel Artist – Kirk Franklin Best Male R&B Artist – Ne-Yo Best Female R&B Artist – Beyonce and Viewers Choice Award – Birdman and Lil’ Wayne for “Stuntin’ Like My Daddy.”Īward presenters included actor Michael Clarke Duncan and American Idol winner Jordan Sparks, songbird Rihanna, Chris Brown, Vivica Fox and Reggie Bush. The night progressed through weavings of performances and award presentations that included: Best Group – Gnarls Barkley Best Actor – Forest Whitaker Best Actress – Jennifer Hudson Best Hip-Hop Artist – T.I. Beyonce wowed viewers with her robotic-like entrance that lead into a routine featuring Kelly Rowland's sexed up image of “Like This,” Michelle Williams and little sister Solange. Mo’Nique put it best when she commented, “The one thing I love about our award shows is that they ain’t nothing but a big house party.”Īrtist after artist, the audience was visibly enthralled with each performance which included duets by Ne-Yo and Fabulous, Diddy and Keisha Cole with a surprise guest in Lil’ Kim. then hit the stage for an invigorating performance. Queen Latifah, with the help of the pre-taped fan assistance that was a running theme throughout the award show, announced the nominees and got right down to the winner – Beyonce for “Irreplaceable.” Atlanta-born rapper T.I.
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