Commentary

The 16th Annual “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” Premieres Tuesday, October 5, 2021

The 2021 “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” returns with more star power on Tuesday, October 5, 2021 at 9:00 PM ET/PT on BET. A newly announced lineup of performers includes Young Thug, Gunna, Bia, Lil Jon, Baby Keem, and Isaiah Rashad. Hip Hop powerhouses Trina, Jermaine Dupri, and Remy Ma, alongside R&B superstar Tank, are slated to present. Rap legend Big Daddy Kane joins for a special tribute to the late Biz Markie.

Comedians, actors, hosts of the “85 South Show” podcast, and stars of “Wild N’ Out” – comedy supergroup 85 South (Comedians Karlous Miller, DC Young Fly, and Chico Bean) prepare to entertain viewers and bring the heat to the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre stage.

Rapper, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and actor Nelly will receive 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. 

“We’re excited to once again celebrate all of the many talented artists who have made an undeniable impact on music this past year,” said Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET. “Hip Hop is universal and as it continues to boldly solidify a lasting legacy in the culture, we look forward to our tradition of honoring legends, celebrating current artists and providing a platform that shines a spotlight on upcoming performers.”  

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. 

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

Twitter hashtag: #HipHopAwards;

Facebook: facebook.com/HipHopAwards.

Follow: @HipHopAwards and @BET.