Celebrating 50 Years of Hip-Hop
The 2023 BET Hip-Hop Awards, held at the Cobb Energy Center in Atlanta, was a spectacular evening that paid homage to the foundational pillars of hip-hop. Fat Joe, a renowned rapper and artist, took on the role of the evening’s host, guiding the audience through a journey that spanned five decades of hip-hop evolution.
The Stars of the Night
The 2023 BET Hip-Hop Awards Cypher was a highlight, with performances from Bun B, Lola Brooke, Cassidy, Gloss Up, Foggieraw, Lady London, Scar Lip, and Symba. The digital cypher spotlighted Maiya The Don, LaNell Grant, and That Mexican OT. Watch both performances below:
Honoring the Beatmasters
Throughout the night, legends such as Kid Capri, DJ D-Nice, Scott Storch, Spinderella, and Kool DJ Red Red Alert graced the turntables. These DJs reminded everyone of the timeless hip-hop tracks, with the audience echoing every lyric. The event also emphasized the crucial role of producers in hip-hop, ensuring they received their due recognition.
Tributes and Collaborations
Most of the evening was dedicated to celebrating the 30th anniversary of Jermaine Dupri’s So So Def Recordings. Icons like Bow Wow, Ludacris, Nelly, Da Brat, Bone Crusher, Chingy, Lil Jon, Tyrese, and Dem Franchize Boyz united for this grand tribute.
Related: Ludacris Songs: Best 25 Tracks
Chicken-n-Beats: Savoring the Flavor of Ludacris Collaboration Songs
LL Cool J and Rakim also delivered a heartfelt performance in honor of the “I Am Hip Hop Award” recipient, Marley Marl, with DJ Jazzy Jeff and Technician the DJ adding their unique touches.
The night also witnessed collaborative performances, including one by Glorilla and Fivio Foreign for their hit “Cha Cha Cha” and another where DaBaby was joined by Sexyy Redd, Juvenile, and Mannie Fresh.
Explore Further: Watch Juvenile’s performance on TinyDesk and learn more about 400 Degreez.
Background Information:
- BET Hip-Hop Awards: An annual awards show airing on BET, celebrating hip-hop performers, producers, and music video directors.
- Fat Joe: A veteran rapper known for hits like “Lean Back” and “What’s Luv?”.
- Swizz Beatz and Timbaland: Renowned producers and artists recently gained attention for creating the Verzuz battle series during the pandemic.
- So So Def Recordings: A record label based in Atlanta, founded by Jermaine Dupri in 1993.
Also, check out the 50-Years of Hip-Hop Celebration from the 2023 VMAs, watch Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion’s “Bongos,” and Lil Wayne’s electrifying rendition of new music.
