The BET Awards were last night and the theme for the night definitely centered on Michael Jackson. It was a fitting stage with all those performers there to share their thoughts, sing some Michael Jackson songs, and honor a man who helped shape, inspire, and define many of their careers. The 3 hour show was hosted by Jamie Foxx, and attended by Joe Jackson and Janet Jackson who were there to honor Michael. The show opened with New Edition performing a medley of Jackson 5 songs and wearing the garb from the 70’s. They did a great job and you just can’t help but sing along to those old songs, which were some of the best ever. Other performers also did their best to pay tribute to Michael. Ne-Yo sang his version of “The Lady in My Life” and Jamie Foxx did a re – enactment of the hit song “Beat It” when he opened the show. Jamie’s performance was upbeat and he told the audience, “No need to be sad. We want to celebrate this black man.” Ciara sang “Heal the World”. Beyonce also performed but she sang “Ave Maria” and “Angel” which were just beautiful. The whole show was basically revamped at the very last minute to include all these changes and tributes. There were plenty of Michael Jackson clips on the big video screen as well as most people receiving awards commented on the King of Pop and how he affected their lives.
 

Let’s talk about some of the winners at the BET Awards. Beyonce won 2 big awards, Best Female R&B as well as Bests Video of the Year for “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It). Best New Artist went to Keri Hilton. Best Male R&B Artist went to Ne – Yo and Best Male Hip – Hop Artist went to Lil Wayne.  Best Female Hip Hop Artist went to M.I.A. and Best Group was Day26. The Viewer’s Choice Award went to T.I. featuring Rihanna for “Live Your life”. Best Collaboration went to Mr. Jamie Foxx himself for “Blame It”. Best Gospel Artist went to Mary Mary and the Best Video Director of the Year Award went to Benny Boom. Best Actress went to Will Smith and Best Actress to Taraji P. Henson. Best Male Athlete went to LeBron James and Serena Williams walked away with Best Female Athlete. The Humanitarian Award went to Alicia Keys and Wyclef Jean. The Lifetime Achievement Award went to The O’Jays. It was a big night for all those stars plus they had an opportunity to recognize the achievements of Michael Jackson as well.

Janet Jackson took the stage and spoke to the audience and the fans. I thought she did an incredible job at holding herself together and delivering her message. “My entire family wanted to be here tonight, but it was just too painful so they elected me to speak with all of you. I would just like to say that to you, Michael is an icon, to us Michael is family, and he will forever live in all of our hearts. On behalf of my family and myself, thank you for all your love, thank you for all your support. We miss him so much.”