BET Awards 2024: Winners, Performances & Highlights
The BET Awards rolled out the red carpet this year with more glitz, surprise wins, and unforgettable moments than ever before. Fans were glued to the show to see who walked away with the coveted trophies and which performances set the night on fire. If you missed the live broadcast, here's a quick rundown of what mattered most – the winners, the show‑stoppers, and why the ceremony matters for the African music scene.
Big Winners and Surprising Upsets
One of the biggest talks of the night was the win for Trinidadian star Bad Bunny as Best International Act – a win that surprised many who expected a more mainstream U.S. artist. Meanwhile, African powerhouse Wizkid clinched Best International Collaboration for his track with Latto, showing that African beats are now front‑and‑center on global playlists. In the Best New Artist category, emerging Rwandan singer Mani*Shaka stole the spotlight, beating out several well‑known U.S. names. These outcomes highlight a shift: the BET Awards are listening to a wider fan base and rewarding cross‑border talent.
Memorable Performances and Cultural Impact
The stage lit up when Doja Cat and Burnaboy teamed up for a mash‑up that blended "Say So" with "Last Last." Their chemistry proved that Afro‑beat and pop can coexist effortlessly. Another standout was SZA delivering an acoustic rendition of "Kill Bill," backed only by a simple piano – a raw moment that reminded viewers why she’s a vocal powerhouse. For many African viewers, seeing Burnaboy at the forefront felt like a cultural win, showing that African artists can share the same spotlight as Hollywood icons.
Beyond the music, the awards also shone a light on social issues. A moving tribute to the victims of the recent floods in Nigeria was delivered by actress Lupita Nyong'o**,** reminding everyone that the platform can amplify humanitarian messages. The BET foundation announced a new grant program supporting young creators across Africa, promising more resources for upcoming talent.
What does all this mean for the future? The BET Awards are no longer just an American showcase; they’re becoming a global stage where African artists can gain mainstream recognition. With streaming numbers soaring and collaborations crossing continents, expect more African names popping up in next year’s nominations.
If you’re looking to catch up on the performances you missed, most clips are already on YouTube and the BET app. Keep an eye out for the official playlist – it’s a quick way to relive the night’s biggest moments without scrolling through endless video edits.
All in all, BET Awards 2024 proved that music knows no borders. Whether you’re a fan of hip‑hop, R&B, or Afro‑beat, there was something for you. And with the buzz around the upcoming awards season, the conversation will keep rolling for months to come.
