On June 26, 2023, the 2023 BET Awards took place, commemorating 50 years of Hip Hop and delivering a night filled with electrifying performances and well-deserved victories. Nigerian superstars Burna Boy and Tems emerged as winners, solidifying their positions as global music icons.
The evening kicked off with a mesmerizing performance by Nigerian megastar Davido, who captivated the audience with his chart-topping hit single ‘Unavailable.’ This marked the second consecutive year that an Afrobeats artist had the privilege of performing at the prestigious event, following Fireboy’s stellar performance last year.
The Nigerian music industry achieved significant milestones at the awards ceremony, with Burna Boy securing the coveted title of Best International Act. This achievement comes as no surprise, given Burna Boy’s meteoric rise to fame and his continuous contribution to the global music landscape. His unique blend of Afrofusion and captivating storytelling has resonated with audiences worldwide, making him a force to be reckoned with.
Tems, another Nigerian talent, also made waves at the 2023 BET Awards by clinching the award for Best Collaboration for the second year in a row. Her exceptional vocals and undeniable artistry were recognized for her contribution to Future’s hit track ‘Wait For U.’ This accolade further solidifies Tems’ reputation as one of the most promising acts in the music industry, both in Nigeria and beyond.
The 2023 BET Awards celebrated not only the triumphs of Burna Boy and Tems but also the rich legacy of Hip Hop. The event featured unforgettable performances by rap legends such as KRS1, Big Daddy, and Fat Joe, paying homage to the genre’s 50-year history.
Here is the full list of winners at the 2023 BET Awards:
- Best International Act: Burna Boy
- Best Collaboration: Tems (for Future’s ‘Wait For U’)
ALBUM OF THE YEAR (TIE)
SOS – SZA
RENAISSANCE – Beyoncé
BEST COLLABORATION
WAIT FOR U – Future feat. Drake & Tems
BEST FEMALE R&B/POP ARTIST
SZA
BEST MALE R&B/POP ARTIST (TIE)
Chris Brown
Usher
BEST NEW ARTIST
Coco Jones
BEST GROUP
Drake x 21 Savage
BEST FEMALE HIP HOP ARTIST
BEST MALE HIP HOP ARTIST
Kendrick Lamar
DR. BOBBY JONES BEST GOSPEL/INSPIRATIONAL AWARD
Bless Me – Maverick City Music & Kirk Franklin
BET HER AWARD
Break My Soul – Beyoncé
VIDEO OF THE YEAR
Kill Bill – SZA
VIDEO DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR
Teyana “Spike Tey” Taylor
BEST MOVIE
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
BEST ACTRESS
Angela Bassett
BEST ACTOR
Damson Idris
YOUNGSTARS AWARD
Marsai Martin
SPORTSWOMAN OF THE YEAR
Angel Reese
SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR
Jalen Hurts
VIEWER’S CHOICE AWARD
Break My Soul – Beyoncé
The victories of Burna Boy and Tems at the 2023 BET Awards underscore the immense talent and global impact of Nigerian artists. Their achievements serve as a testament to the thriving music industry in Nigeria and its ability to produce world-class musicians who are making waves on the international stage.
As the Nigerian music scene continues to evolve and captivate audiences worldwide, it is evident that the country’s artists are leaving an indelible mark on the global music landscape. The wins at the 2023 BET Awards are a testament to their hard work, creativity, and unwavering dedication to their craft, and fans eagerly anticipate what the future holds for these exceptional talents.
