CULTURE’S BIGGEST NIGHT TO CELEBRATE

 HIP HOP’S 50^TH ANNIVERSARY

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#BETAWARDS

 #CULTURESBIGGESTNIGHT

Today, BET announces “BET Awards” 2023 will return LIVE from Los Angeles on Sunday, June 25. Culture’s Biggest Night will celebrate five decades of Hip Hop throughout the LIVE telecast on BET. “BET Awards” has been the #1 cable award show among all adults 18-49 for two consecutive years, 2022 and 2021, and is the #1 cable award show among Black adults 18-49 for the 21st consecutive year (CY02-CY22).

"We are thrilled to be back in LA for BET Awards 2023 and to celebrate a huge cultural milestone- the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop," said Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET. "For five decades, Hip Hop has not only influenced American culture but has become a global phenomenon and one of the most influential musical genres of our lifetime. From music to fashion, art, and entertainment, we are honored to have always provided a platform for Hip Hop to thrive. We look forward to paying tribute to the pioneers and innovators as we amplify the new generation of Hip Hop artists like only BET can."

Connie Orlando, EVP, Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy will oversee and Executive Produce the annual show, with Jamal Noisette, VP, Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy to Co-Executive Produce for BET. Jesse Collins Entertainment is the production company for the show, with Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon, and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay also serving as Executive Producers.

https://Bet.com/bet-awards is the official site for “BET Awards” 2023 and will have all the latest news and updates about this year's show. 

Follow us @BET_PR AND @BETAWARDS

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About BET Media Group

The BET Media Group, a unit of Paramount (NASDAQ: PARAA; PARA; PARAP), is the world’s largest media company dedicated to entertaining, engaging, and empowering the Black community and championing Black culture. Connecting Black audiences through a portfolio of brands including BET, BET+, BET Gospel, BET HER, BET International, BET Jams, BET Soul, BET Studios, and VH1, the BET Media Group is a thriving media ecosystem of leading interconnected platforms across cable TV, streaming, digital, studios, live events and international. For more information about BET, visit www.bet.com and follow @BET on social platforms. For more BET news announcements, follow us on social @BET_PR.

ABOUT “BET AWARDS”

“BET Awards” is one of the most-watched award shows on cable television according to the Nielsen Company. The “BET Awards” franchise remains the #1 program in cable TV history among African-Americans, and it is the #1 telecast for BET every year. It recognizes the triumphs and successes of artists, entertainers, and athletes in a variety of categories.

ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT

Founded in 2012, Jesse Collins Entertainment (JCE) is a full-service Emmy® winning production company that has played an integral role in producing many of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment. The company has a multi-year overall agreement with ViacomCBS Cable Networks. JCE’s award-winning and critically acclaimed television includes programming from its three divisions. From the scripted division: scripted series—Real Husbands of Hollywood, American Soul and miniseries—The New Edition Story and The Bobby Brown Story. From the unscripted division: unscripted series – Oh Hell No! With Marlon Wayans, Cardi Tries, My Killer Body with K. Michelle, DJ Cassidy’s Pass the Mic and Forward: The Future of Black Music, competition/game shows—Becoming A Popstar, Rhythm + Flow, Sunday Best, Hip Hop Squares and Nashville Squares, talk shows – Yara Shahidi’s Day Off and Face to Face with Becky G, and children’s series—Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices (Daytime Emmy® Award winner). From the specials division: award shows—The American Music Awards, BET Awards, Soul Train Awards, BET Hip Hop Awards, Black Girls Rock!, BET Honors, UNCF’s An Evening of Stars and ABFF Honors, specials—The Super Bowl Halftime Show (Primetime Emmy® Award winner), Lil Rel Howery: I said it. Y’all thinking it., CNN’s Juneteenth: A Global Celebration of Freedom, Martin: The Reunion, John Lewis: Celebrating A Hero, Love & Happiness: An Obama Celebration, Change Together: From The March On Washington To Today, A GRAMMY Salute to the Sounds of Change, Stand Up for Heroes, Dear Mama, Amanda Seales: I Be Knowin’, Def Comedy Jam 25, Leslie Jones: Time Machine, The All-Star Nickmas Spectacular and Rip the Runway. Emmy® winner Jesse Collins, Founder and CEO, is the executive producer of all programming. He is also an executive producer for the Grammy Awards and The Golden Globes. Collins produced the 2021 Oscars.

HIP HOP TRAILBLAZER TRINA NAMED “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” 2022 I AM HIP HOP AWARD HONOREE

ARMANI WHITE, BLEU, EST GEE, FIVIO FOREIGN, FRENCH MONTANA, GLORILLA, JOEY BADA$$, MONEYBAGG YO, N.O.R.E., AND PUSHA T ANNOUNCED AS PERFORMERS 

FAT JOE SET TO HOST “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” 2022 PREMIERING TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2022, AT 9 PM ET/PT ON BET 

#HIPHOPAWARDS 

Photo Credit: Drea Nicole 

(NEW YORK, NY) – September 22, 2022 – Hip Hop’s biggest night is heating up with the addition of legendary music icons and a dynamic slate of performers at “BET Hip Hop Awards” 2022. Today, BET taps rapper, producer, TV/radio personality, and entrepreneur Trina as the 2022 recipient of the I Am Hip Hop Award. Hosted by GRAMMY®-nominated recording artist, actor, entrepreneur, and media personality Fat Joe, the annual show premieres Tuesday, October 4, 2022, at 9:00 PM ET/PT. 

“I am honored to receive and accept the 2022 I Am Hip Hop Award presented by BET,” said Trina. “As a legend with over 20 years in the music industry, consistency and unity have contributed to my Rockstarr power as a femcee. I believe when one woman wins, whether it’s in front of the camera or behind the scenes, we all WIN. Let’s keep winning!” 

"Trina is a multi-talented hip hop artist who has set cultural trends and continues to be passionate about giving back to her community," said Connie Orlando, EVP, Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy. "She has paved the way for several artists, and we look forward to honoring her impact and legacy on hip hop's biggest stage, BET Hip Hop Awards 2022." 

In addition, newly announced performers include Hip Hop heavyweights French Montana, Joey Bada$$, N.O.R.E, and Pusha T, set to blaze the stage alongside additional performers Armani White, Bleu, EST Gee, GloRilla, and Moneybagg Yo, with more names to be announced. 

Previously announced nominees include Drake, who leads with 14 nominations followed by Ye with an impressive 10 nods, and Kendrick Lamar with 9. Future rounds out the top four with an impressive eight nods. Baby Keem, Cardi B, and J. Cole are tied, with each earning six nods. Other notable nominations include Doja Cat, Latto, Lil Durk, Tems, and Young Thug, each of whom received three nominations. Benny The Butcher, City Girls, Fivio Foreign, Glorilla, Jay-Z, Megan Thee Stallion, Nas, and Usher received two nominations each. 

Connie Orlando, EVP, Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy will oversee the annual show and Executive Produce for BET with Jamal Noisette, VP, Specials & Music Programming. Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment, to serve as Executive Producer of the “BET Hip Hop Awards” 2022 along with Jesse Collins Entertainment’s Jeannae Rouzan–Clay and Dionne Harmon. 

ABOUT KATRINA “TRINA” TAYLOR 

Ever true to her reign, this female emcee and music legend has been able to align herself as a force in pop culture year after year since her introduction. Music, TV, film, and now mainstream radio - Trina hasn't encountered a platform that she couldn't conquer. This businesswoman, reality TV personality, musical entertainer, and philanthropist continues to create trends and catchy titles for women worldwide. Everyone wants to be at the pinnacle of their craft, and when it comes to women in the music arena - everyone wants to be the “Baddest Chick” because of the bar Trina set in Hip Hop. 

Katrina “Trina” Taylor made her debut onto the music scene in 1998 when she was featured on Trick Daddy’s street anthem “NANN,” and her career has skyrocketed ever since. With albums such as Da Baddest Bixxh (2000), Diamond Princess (2002), Glamorest Life (2005), Still Da Baddest (2008), Amazin (2010), and the most recent success in her growth as an artist, The One (2019). Trina delivers aggressive, mind-blowing lyrics with a musical style that can never be duplicated. Trina represents a mark of distinction that strives to explore innovative ways to set her musical talent apart from other female lyricists. Her fifth studio album, Amazin (2010) debuted at #1 on the Billboard independent albums chart, #2 on the U.S. Billboard Top Rap Album charts, and powered onto the Billboard 200 charts at #13. The female emcee has released 4 EP projects and 13 mixtapes, including one of the genre’s most streamed and downloaded releases, entitled Diamonds Are Forever. The mixtape, which gained over 4.8 million views in just as little as 2 days, received continuous accolades; especially for Trina’s hit single “Long Heel, Red Bottoms.” This track alone affirms Trina as the embodiment of confidence and variety in her musical style, earning the accolade of most consistent female emcee to date. 

By way of such an accomplished career, Trina continues to deliver a diverse spectrum of keen lyrical talent while remaining a force of beauty and strength for all women worldwide. Trina continues to evolve as a woman who will not falter, fade, or rely on oversexed personas to succeed in life. She has graced countless magazines including L’Officiel, USWeekly, InTouch, Billboard, Paper Magazine, The Miami Herald, Rolling Out, Sister 2 Sister, XXL, King, Ozone, The Source, Kontrol, Urban Ink, Black Men, and many more. Femcees worldwide view the trailblazer as a catalyst who reigns as the original Baddest Chick in Hip Hop and beyond. 

Today, Trina operates as record label founder of Rockstarr Music Group, where she seeks to house a diverse roster of talented artists who will make history in their own spotlights under her direction. Trina announced involvement in the Legends of the Streetz tour as a headliner with fellow superstars Rick Ross, former labelmate 2Chainz, Jeezy, and Gucci Mane. The multifaceted businesswoman announced her partnership with spirit NYAK Cognac, a Black-owned legacy brand that is six generations old. 

Firmly planted in the acting world, BET featured Trina in a new film, Dear Best Friend alongside Jeremy Meeks, Andra Fuller, and Angel Love. Trina is also a primary cast member of Love & Hip Hop Miami. The entertainer was featured as a main host of Tiny Tonight, a late-night pop culture show on VH1. Her numerous other television appearances include The Real, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Nick Cannon’s Wild N Out, LaLa’s Full Court Life, MTV’s Ridiculousness, Hip Hop Squares, RuPaul’s Drag Race as a celebrity guest judge, Styled by June--the highest viewed segment of that series, Logo, MTV and MTV2, Vice News, and CNN. 

Showcasing her versatility as a personality and entertainer, Cox Media Group announced the legend’s morning radio show entitled The TNT Show where she cohosts alongside Trick Daddy on 99Jamz in Miami, Florida. Launched in 2020, the show covered pop culture topics, celebrity news, and more for a high-performing two-year run under the radio imprint. The city of Miami honored the emcee with her own day to celebrate her community activism as a voice for the often-overlooked people of Miami. Her latest music release, produced by Hitmaka, entitled Receipts confirms that Trina is the original Baddest B*tch in Hip Hop! 

For more information on Fat Joe, follow him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. 

Join the conversation on social media by logging on to multiple BET social media platforms: 

On Twitter by using the hashtag #HipHopAwards; follow us @HipHopAwards and @BET 

On Facebook by liking the fan page at www.facebook.com/HipHopAwards 

Follow us @BET_PR

BET names RIAA-certified 2x Platinum Artist and Jacksonville, FL native Nardo Wick as its BET Amplified artist for September 2022.

BET Amplified is BET Music's stamp of approval on the next big thing in music. Following the success of hit single “Who Want Smoke?” Nardo Wick’s popularity has been steady and quick.  The new alternative version of this hit track featuring Lil Durk, 21 Savage and G Herbo, debuted at #17 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and the video – currently at 138 million views and counting – trended on YouTube for weeks to follow and six months later is still sitting in the top 20 at #15.

The release of Who Is Nardo Wick? debuted in the top 20 (#19) on the Billboard 200 chart, making it the fifth largest debut of 2021. From being featured on DJ Khaled’s new album God Did (“It Ain’t Safe ft. Nardo Wick, Kodak Black”) and the ELVIS (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) “Product of the Ghetto” to landing a spot on “Judas And The Black Messiah: The Inspired” album soundtrack, his stardom is undoubtedly on the rise. This September, Nardo Wick can now also add BET Amplified Artist to his list of accolades. As a BET Amplified artist, Nardo Wick will receive BET Music’s support across multiple BET campaigns and platforms, including BET, BET Her, BET Jams, BET Soul, BET.com, BET Socials, and BET’s Official YouTube Page. 

About Nardo Wick: 

In a little over a year and a half, Nardo Wick exploded onto the rap scene and has begun to make a name for himself. It was just the start of 2021 when Florida upstart Nardo Wick unleashed his menacing track “Who Want Smoke?” onto the world and had it spread like wildfire. It was certified platinum before the album even dropped—quickly jumping to over two million streams on YouTube alone, as artists like Lil Durk, Future, and G Herbo started publicly praising the cut. Nardo has released a slew of successful tracks including "Shhh", "Pull Up" and "I Be Chillin" and recently “Dah Dah DahDah.”  Nardo recently finished his first-ever tour, Who Is Nardo Wick?: The Tour and was inducted into the 2022 XXL Freshman Class. Currently, he is gearing up to hit the road again, this time as a guest on Lil Durk’s The 7220 Deluxe Tour kicking off September 17. 

While Nardo is just getting started, he maintains his mission for himself, his music, and his listeners. “Be yourself,” he humbly advises. “That’s really it.” His success story is proof alone to take his advice. “When I first got started, I knew I wanted to blow up,” he adds. “And now I’m here.” 

Previous BET Amplified artists include Babyface Ray, Blxst, Coi Leray, Doechii, Kalan.FrFr, Lehla Samia, Masego, Muni Long, Snoh Aalegra, Tems, Young Stunna, and many more! 

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IN HIP HOP WE STAND!

BET ANNOUNCES EXPLOSIVE 
HIP HOP PROGRAMMING LINEUP 
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 5 WITH PREMIERES OF 
2021 “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” AND “RAP CITY ‘21”

“RAP CITY ’21,” HOSTED BY BIG TIGGER, RETURNS, 
TUESDAY AT 8 PM ET/PT ON BET AND BET HER 
FEATURING JERMAINE DUPRI, TOBE NWIGWE, 
FAT JOE, JEEZY, DJ DRAMA AND MANY MORE! 

THE 2021 “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” 
HOSTED BY COMEDIANS 85 SOUTH SHOW 
(KARLOUS MILLER, DC YOUNG FLY, AND CHICO BEAN) 
PREMIERES AT 9PM ET/PT ON BET, BET HER, MTV2 AND VH1 
MUSIC SUPERSTAR NELLY RECEIVES THE 
“I AM HIP HOP” AWARD
 
RAPPER AND PRODUCER TYLER, THE CREATOR HONORED AS THE FIRST-EVER 
“ROCK THE BELLS CULTURAL INFLUENCE AWARD” HONOREE

(“I AM HIP HOP” HONOREE NELLY PERFORMS A MEDLEY OF GREATEST HITS AT 2021 “BET HIP HOP AWARDS / COURTESY OF BET) 

BET celebrates Hip Hop with two new specials on Tuesday, October 5: The 2021 “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” and “RAP CITY ‘21.” The longest-running rap show on BET, “RAP CITY,” returns for a one-hour special edition with legendary host Darian “Big Tigger” Morgan at 8 PM ET/PT on BET and BET Her. The 2021 “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” co-hosted by actors, hosts of the “85 South Show” podcast, and stars of Wild N’ Out - comedy supergroup 85 South (Karlous Miller, DC Young Fly, and Chico Bean) - premieres at 9 PM ET/PT on BET, BET Her, MTV2 and VH1. 

Executive Produced and Hosted by Big Tigger, “Rap City ‘21” will celebrate the culture and feature exclusive interviews with Jermaine Dupri, Tobe Nwigwe, Fat Joe, Jeezy, DJ Drama, and more. The special will reveal never before seen booth appearances, “Rap City” memories. The highly anticipated return of the iconic music show will continue to pay homage to BET’s commitment to Hip Hop and celebrate the stars of the culture’s past, present and future. Making its debut in 1989, “Rap City,” was the preeminent hip hop series dedicated to rap music videos, important cultural commentary, and interviews with the stars of the moment along with original freestyles from artists including Jay-Z, A Tribe Called Quest, LL Cool J, Kanye West, Eve, Ludacris, The Diplomats, Jadakiss, Trina, Common, Big Boi, Killer Mike, and many more! 

(ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 01: (L-R) LaNell Grant, Tobe Nwigwe and Martika Ivory Rogers attend the 2021 BET Hip Hop Awards at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre on October 01, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)

This year’s “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” featured show stopping performances by Young Thug & Gunna, Latto, Bia featuring Lil Jon, Baby Keem, Tobe Nwigwe featuring Fat & Nell, and Isaiah Rashad featuring Doechii & Kal. Hip Hop powerhouses Trina, Remy Ma, and Rapsody presented some of the night's top honors. 

(ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 01: Remy Ma and Papoose attend the 2021 BET Hip Hop Awards at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre on October 01, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)

Rapper, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and actor Nelly received the 2021 “I Am Hip Hop” Award from legendary producer Jermaine Dupri before taking the stage to perform a medley of his greatest hits. Global entertainment icon, 2021 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, founder and CEO of Rock The Bells, LL COOL J presented the first-ever “Rock The Bells Cultural Influence Award” to Grammy-Award winning rapper, producer, entrepreneur and four-time “BET Hip Hop Awards” nominee TYLER, THE CREATOR. 

(ATLANTA, GEORGIA - OCTOBER 01: (L-R) Young Thug, Nelly, and Gunna attend the 2021 BET Hip Hop Awards at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center on October 01, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/2021 BET Hip Hop Awards/Getty Images for BET)

Previously announced nominees include Cardi B, Lil Durk, and Megan Thee Stallion, leading the pack with nine nominations each, followed by Drake with an impressive eight nods. Tyler, The Creator, and Metro Boomin tie for third-most nominations securing four nods each. Other notable nominees include 21 Savage, DJ Khaled, J. Cole, and Pooh Shiesty, who received three each. Bia, Chris Brown, Doja Cat, Jay Z, Lil Nas X, Migos, Nicki Minaj, Roddy Ricch, Saweetie, Young Thug, and Yung Bleu received two nominations each. 

For more information about the “BET HIP HOP AWARDS”, including the digital red carpet livestream powered by Bulldog DM, the latest news and updates, visit bet.com/hiphopawards and follow the conversation @BETAwards 

Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy will oversee the annual show, with Jamal Noisette, VP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy serving as Co-Executive Producer for BET. Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment, to serve as Executive Producer of the 2021 “BET HIP HOP AWARDS'' along with Jesse Collins Entertainment’s Jeannae Rouzan–Clay and Dionne Harmon. 

“Rap City ‘21” is executive produced by Darian “Big Tigger” Morgan, Red Summer TV and Sam Walker for BET. 

# # # 

ABOUT BET 

BET, a subsidiary of ViacomCBS Inc. (NASDAQ: VIACA, VIAC), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African American audience. The primary BET channel is in 125 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, sub-Saharan Africa and France. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions including BET+, the preeminent streaming service for the Black audience; BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET HER, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET’s growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe. 

ABOUT “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” 

BET “Hip Hop Awards” is an annual celebration that pays homage to a culture that changed the world while highlighting the best in hip hop music. Year after year, BET delivers the best in hip-hop for an unforgettable night of performances, cyphers and tributes honoring hip-hop legends that have and continue to make hip-hop culture a global force. 

ABOUT JESSE COLLINS ENTERTAINMENT 

Jesse Collins Entertainment (JCE) is a full-service television and film production company and has played an integral role in producing many of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment. The Emmy® nominated company has a multi-year overall agreement with ViacomCBS Cable Networks. On the theatrical film side, the company also has a first look on JCE’s film development projects which could include Viacom’s film entities such as Paramount Players. The award-winning and critically acclaimed television that JCE has produced includes miniseries—”The New Edition Story” and “The Bobby Brown Story;” scripted series—”American Soul” and “Real Husbands of Hollywood;” unscripted series – “Cardi Tries;” children’s series—”Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices;” award shows—”BET Awards,” “Black Girls Rock!,” “BET Honors,” “UNCF’s An Evening of Stars,” “BET Hip Hop Awards,” “ABFF Honors” and “Soul Train Awards;” specials—”John Lewis: Celebrating A Hero,” “Love & Happiness: An Obama Celebration,” “Change Together: From The March On Washington To Today,” “Stand Up for Heroes,” “Dear Mama,” “Amanda Seales: I Be Knowin’,” “Def Comedy Jam 25” and “Leslie Jones: Time Machine;” as well as competition/game shows—”Sunday Best,” “Hip Hop Squares,” “Nashville Squares” and “Rhythm & Flow.” Jesse Collins, founder and CEO of the company, is the executive producer of all programming. He is also a co-executive producer for the iconic Grammy Awards. Most recently, he was executive producer of The 2021 Pepsi Super Bowl Halftime Show and produced The 2021 Academy Awards. He will next executive produce the 2021 American Music Awards. Go to jessecollinsent.com for more information on the company.

THE 16th ANNUAL “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” PREMIERES TUESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2021 AT 9 PM ET/PT ON BET 

#HIPHOPAWARDS 

September 20, 2021 –Today BET announces DOUBLE DIAMOND SELLING SUPERSTAR rapper and entrepreneur Nelly as the “BET Hip Hop Awards” recipient of the 2021 “I Am Hip Hop” Award. From chart-topping hits that include “Hot in Herre,” “Dilemma” (feat. Kelly Rowland), “Country Grammar,” “Ride Wit Me,” and “Cruise” (with Florida Georgia Line), to his popular fashion line Apple Bottoms, to starring in the hit series Real Husbands of Hollywood, and his own reality show Nellyville, the charismatic, multi-platinum music icon will be celebrated for his massive contributions to music and the culture at large. The “BET Hip Hop Awards” premieres Tuesday, October 5, 2021, at 9:00 PM ET/PT. 

“I am honored to receive this award and humbled to be in such great company of past artists who have received this award,” said Nelly, this year’s I Am Hip Hop Award recipient. “I have been blessed to work with some incredible people in my career, making 22 years go by in the blink of an eye. This award isn’t just about Nelly; it is about my fans, BET, and the people that continue to support me and allow me to do what I love to do.” 

Previously announced nominees include Cardi B, Lil Durk, and Megan Thee Stallion, leading the pack with nine nominations each, followed by Drake with an impressive eightnods. Tyler, The Creator and Metro Boomin tie for third-most nominations securing four nods each. Other notable nominees include 21 Savage, DJ Khaled, J. Cole, and Pooh Shiesty, who received three each. Bia, Chris Brown, Doja Cat, Jay Z, Lil Nas X, Migos, Nicki Minaj, Roddy Ricch, Saweetie, Young Thug, and Yung Bleu received two nominations. For the full list of nominees, selected by a voting academy of esteemed music industry insiders, click HERE. 

ABOUT NELLY 

Diamond Selling, Multi-platinum, 3x Grammy award-winning rap superstar, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and actor, NELLY, has continually raised the bar for the entertainment industry since stepping on the scene in 2000 with his distinctive vocals and larger-than-life personality. Over the past 20 years, he has released hit singles including “Hot in Herre,” “Dilemma” (feat. Kelly Rowland), “Country Grammar,” “Ride Wit Me,” “Just a Dream,” “Cruise” (with Florida Georgia Line), “The Fix,” “Millionaire” and more. RIAA ranks Nelly as the fourth best-selling rap artist in American music history, with 21 million albums sold in the United States. On December 11, 2009, Billboard ranked Nelly the number three Top Artist of the Decade. 

The music mogul has also left his mark in other aspects of the industry, introducing his hugely successful women’s clothing line, Apple Bottoms and as part-owner of the Charlotte Bobcats with Michael Jordan. Nelly also added sports commentator to his list of accomplishments with Fox Sports, making him one of few actors with three television shows airing simultaneously at the time with Fox Sports, Nellyville and Real Husbands of Hollywood. In 2005, he made his big screen debut in the Adam Sandler and Chris Rock hit remake The Longest Yard and Reach Me with Sylvester Stallone in 2014. Currently, he supports the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and is the only music artist to own a college, EI University, which provides education surrounding the music industry while Nelly himself provides scholarships. In addition to touring shows and promoting his latest single “High Horse” from the upcoming “Heartland” album, Nelly is also filming the new season of BET smash hit series Real Husbands of Hollywood, streaming exclusively on BET+ in 2022. 

Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy will oversee the annual show, with Jamal Noisette, VP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy serving as Co-Executive Producer for BET. Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment, to serve as Executive Producer of the 2021 “BET HIP HOP AWARDS'' along with Jesse Collins Entertainment’s Jeannae Rouzan–Clay and Dionne Harmon. 

For more information about the “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” including the latest news and updates, visit bet.com/hiphopawards. 

Join the conversation on social media by logging on to multiple BET social media platforms: 

On Twitter by using the hashtag: #HipHopAwards; follow us @HipHopAwards and @BET. 

On Facebook by liking the fan page at facebook.com/HipHopAwards. 

ABOUT BET 

BET, a subsidiary of ViacomCBS Inc. (NASDAQ: VIACA, VIAC), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African American audience. The primary BET channel is in 125 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, sub-Saharan Africa and France. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions including BET+, the preeminent streaming service for the Black audience; BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET HER, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET’s growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe. 

ABOUT “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” 

BET “Hip Hop Awards” is an annual celebration that pays homage to a culture that changed the world while highlighting the best in hip hop music. Year after year, BET delivers the best in hip-hop for an unforgettable night of performances, cyphers and tributes honoring hip-hop legends that have and continue to make hip-hop culture a global force.

OTHER TOP NOMINEES INCLUDE LIL BABY WITH SIX NODS, FOLLOWED BY METRO BOOMIN AND TYLER, THE CREATOR WITH FOUR NODS EACH 

THE 2021 “BET HIP HOP AWARDS’ PREMIERES TUESDAY, OCTOBER 5 AT 9 PM ET/PT 

#HIPHOPAWARDS 

New York, NY – September 9, 2021 – BET announces the nominees for the 16th annual “BET HIP HOP AWARDS,” honoring the past year in hip hop music across 17 categories, selected by a voting academy of esteemed music industry insiders. With the theme of unity as expressed by its tagline In Hip Hop We Stand, the 2021 “BET HIP HOP AWARDS" will tape from the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta, GA, on Friday, October 1 and will premiere Tuesday, October 5, 2021, at 9 PM ET/PT on BET, and simulcast internationally on BET Africa on Wednesday, October 6 AT 3 AM CAT. BET will work closely with Fulton County to support community vaccination efforts and ensure adherence to COVID-19 protocols. 

Cardi B, Lil Durk, and Megan Thee Stallion lead this year’s nominations with an impressive nine nods each. Cardi B’s nods include ‘Song of The Year,’ ‘Hip Hop Artist of The Year,’ ‘ Best Hip Hop Video,’ ‘Best Collaboration,’ ‘Best Live Performer,’ ‘Hustler of The Year,’ and ‘Sweet 16: Best featured Verse’. Lil Durk’s nods include ‘Song of the Year,’ ‘ Best Hip Hop Video,’ ‘Best Collaboration,’ ‘Best Duo or Group,’ and ‘Sweet 16: Best featured Verse’. Megan Thee Stallion’s nods include ‘Hip Hop Album of the Year,’ ‘Song of the Year,’ ‘Hip Hop Artist of the Year,’ ‘ Best Hip Hop Video,’ ‘Best Collaboration,’ ‘Best Live Performer,’ ‘Lyricist of the Year,’ ‘Hustler of the Year,’ and ‘Sweet 16: Best featured Verse’. Drake takes second place with an impressive eight nods. Tyler, The Creator and Metro Boomin tied for third-most nominations securing four nods each. 

Other notable nominations include 21 Savage, DJ Khaled, J. Cole, and Pooh Shiesty, who received 3 nominations each. Bia, Chris Brown, Doja Cat, Jay Z, Lil Nas X, Migos, Nicki Minaj, Roddy Ricch, Saweetie, Young Thug, and Yung Bleu received two nominations each. 

Additionally, the ‘Best New Hip Hop Artist’ Award nominees include Blxst, Coi Leray, Don Toliver, Morray, Pooh Shiesty, and Yung Bleu. 

“Our 2021 ‘BET Hip Hop Awards’ nominees span generations and are a representation of the talented individuals who elevate hip hop culture in creative and diverse ways. We congratulate each of them on these sought-after accolades,” said Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy for BET. “We can’t wait to join forces with the best in hip hop and deliver a one-of-a-kind show in Atlanta.” 

Voting for the 2021 “BET HIP HOP AWARDS'' DJ of the Year and Best Hip Hop Platform is now open:  https://www.votehiphopawards.com 

Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy will oversee the annual show, with Jamal Noisette, VP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy serving as Co-Executive Producer. Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment, to serve as Executive Producer of the 2021 “BET HIP HOP AWARDS'' along with Jesse Collins Entertainment’s Jeannae Rouzan–Clay and Dionne Harmon. 

For more information about the “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” including the latest news and updates, visit bet.com/hiphopawards. 

See below for the complete list of 2021 “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” Official Nominees: 

HIP HOP ALBUM OF THE YEAR 

A GANGSTA’S PAIN                                    MONEYBAGG YO 

CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST                     TYLER, THE CREATOR 

CULTURE III                                                MIGOS 

GOOD NEWS                                               MEGAN THEE STALLION 

KHALED KHALED                                       DJ KHALED 

SAVAGE MODE II                                       21 SAVAGE & METRO BOOMIN 

THE OFF-SEASON                                       J. COLE 

SONG OF THE YEAR

BACK IN BLOOD                                          PRODUCED BY YC (POOH SHIESTY FEAT. LIL DURK) 

LATE AT NIGHT                                          PRODUCED BY MUSTARD (RODDY RICCH) 

LAUGH NOW CRY LATER.                        PRODUCED BY G. RY, CARDOGOTWINGS, ROGET CHAHAYED & YUNG EXCLUSIVE (DRAKE FEAT. LIL DURK) 

UP                                                                   PRODUCED BY YUNG DZA, SEAN ISLAND, DJ SWANQO (CARDI B) 

WAP                                                               PRODUCED BY AYO & KEYZ (CARDI B FEAT. MEGAN THEE STALLION) 

WHOLE LOTTA MONEY (REMIX)            PRODUCED BY LONDON JAE, BEATGODZ, TEE ROMANO (BIA FEAT. NICKI MINAJ) 

HIP HOP ARTIST OF THE YEAR 

CARDI B 

DRAKE 

J. COLE 

LIL BABY 

MEGAN THEE STALLION 

TYLER, THE CREATOR 

BEST HIP HOP VIDEO 

CARDI B                                                                                     UP 

CARDI B FEAT. MEGAN THEE STALLION                          WAP 

CHRIS BROWN & YOUNG THUG                                         GO CRAZY 

DRAKE FEAT. LIL DURK                                                        LAUGH NOW CRY LATER 

LIL NAS X                                                                                  MONTERO (CALL ME BY YOUR NAME) 

SAWEETIE FEAT. DOJA CAT                                                 BEST FRIEND 

BEST NEW HIP HOP ARTIST 

BLXST 

COI LERAY 

DON TOLIVER 

MORRAY 

POOH SHIESTY 

YUNG BLEU 

BEST COLLABORATION 

21 SAVAGE & METRO BOOMIN FEAT. DRAKE   MR. RIGHT NOW 

BIA FEAT. NICKI MINAJ                                                         WHOLE LOTTA MONEY (REMIX) 

CARDI B FEAT. MEGAN THEE STALLION                           WAP 

DJ KHALED FEAT. LIL BABY & LIL DURK                           EVERY CHANCE I GET 

DRAKE FEAT. LIL DURK                                                         LAUGH NOW CRY LATER 

POOH SHIESTY FEAT. LIL DURK                                          BACK IN BLOOD 

BEST DUO OR GROUP 

21 SAVAGE & METRO BOOMIN 

CHRIS BROWN & YOUNG THUG 

CITY GIRLS 

FUTURE & LIL UZI VERT 

LIL BABY & LIL DURK 

MIGOS 

BEST LIVE PERFORMER 

BUSTA RHYMES 

CARDI B 

DABABY 

DOJA CAT 

MEGAN THEE STALLION 

TYLER, THE CREATOR 

LYRICIST OF THE YEAR 

BENNY THE BUTCHER 

DRAKE 

J. COLE 

LIL BABY 

MEGAN THEE STALLION 

NAS 

BEST INTERNATIONAL FLOW 

LADIPOE (NIGERIA) 

NASTY C (SOUTH AFRICA) 

XAMÃ (BRAZIL) 

LAYLOW (FRANCE) 

GAZO (FRANCE) 

LITTLE SIMZ (UK) 

DAVE (UK) 

VIDEO DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR 

COLE BENNETT 

COLIN TILLEY 

DAVE MEYERS 

DIRECTOR X 

HYPE WILLIAMS 

MISSY ELLIOTT 

DJ OF THE YEAR 

CHASE B 

D NICE 

DJ CASSIDY 

DJ DRAMA 

DJ ENVY 

DJ JAZZY JEFF 

DJ SCHEME 

KAYTRANADA 

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR 

DJ KHALED 

HIT-BOY 

METRO BOOMIN 

MUSTARD 

THE ALCHEMIST 

TYLER, THE CREATOR 

HUSTLER OF THE YEAR 

CARDI B 

DRAKE 

LIL BABY 

MEGAN THEE STALLION 

SAWEETIE 

YUNG BLEU 

BEST HIP HOP PLATFORM 

COMPLEX 

GENIUS 

HIP HOP DX 

HOT NEW HIPHOP 

THE BREAKFAST CLUB 

THE SHADE ROOM 

WORLDSTAR HIPHOP 

XXL 

SWEET 16: BEST FEATURED VERSE 

CARDI B                                                        TYPE SHIT (MIGOS FEAT. CARDI B) 

DRAKE                                                          HAVIN' OUR WAY (MIGOS FEAT. DRAKE) 

JAY-Z                                                            WHAT IT FEELS LIKE (NIPSEY HUSSLE FEAT. JAY-Z) 

LIL DURK                                                      BACK IN BLOOD (POOH SHIESTY FT. LIL DURK) 

MEGAN THE STALLION                            ON ME (REMIX) (LIL BABY FT. MEGAN THEE STALLION) 

RODDY RICCH                                             LEMONADE (REMIX) (INTERNET MONEY FEAT. DON TOLIVER & RODDY RICCH) 

IMPACT TRACK 

BLACK THOUGHT                                       THOUGHT VS EVERYBODY 

LIL NAS X                                                      MONTERO (CALL ME BY YOUR NAME) 

LIL BABY & KIRK FRANKLIN                   WE WIN 

MEEK MILL FEAT. LIL DURK                    PAIN AWAY 

NIPSEY HUSSLE FEAT. JAY-Z                   WHAT IT FEELS LIKE 

RAPSODY                                                     12 PROBLEMS 

Join the conversation on social media by logging on to multiple BET social media platforms: On Twitter by using the hashtag: #HipHopAwards; follow @HipHopAwards and @BET On Facebook by liking the fan page at facebook.com/HipHopAwards. 

ABOUT BET 

BET, a subsidiary of ViacomCBS Inc. (NASDAQ: VIACA, VIAC), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African American audience. The primary BET channel is in 125 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, sub-Saharan Africa and France. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions including BET+, the preeminent streaming service for the Black audience; BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET HER, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the African-American Woman; BET Music Networks - BET Jams, BET Soul and BET Gospel; BET Home Entertainment; BET Live, BET’s growing festival business; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET around the globe. 

ABOUT BET “HIP HOP AWARDS” 

BET “Hip Hop Awards” is an annual celebration that pays homage to a culture that changed the world while highlighting the best in hip hop music. Year after year, BET delivers the best in hip-hop for an unforgettable night of performances, cyphers and tributes honoring hip-hop legends that have and continue to make hip-hop culture a global force.