The Ultimate Guide to the 2023 BET Awards: Unveiling Stellar Performers, Exclusive Venues, and More!

Drake, Lizzo. Matt Baron/BEI/Shutterstock

"We are excited to return to Los Angeles for the 2023 BET Awards, a momentous occasion as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop," expressed Connie Orlando, BET's EVP of specials, music programming, and music strategy, in an April statement.

The awards show, set to happen in Los Angeles, will showcase the significant impact that hip-hop has had on the music industry in the last 50 years.

"Over the course of five decades, hip-hop has not only shaped American culture, but has also become a worldwide sensation and one of the most influential genres of our time," Orlando expressed. "From music to fashion, art, and entertainment, we are proud to have consistently offered a platform for hip-hop to flourish. We eagerly anticipate honoring the trailblazers and visionaries, while also amplifying the emerging generation of hip-hop artists, a task that only BET can accomplish."

Earlier this month, BET announced the nominees for this year's event, which encompass various categories such as music, television, film, and sports. The network emphasizes that these nominations celebrate "abundant creative expression and Black excellence."

Leading the 2023 list with an impressive seven nominations is Drake, a Canadian rapper who has previously won 15 trophies at the awards show. Among his nominations this year are Best Male Hip-Hop Artist, Best Male R&B/Pop Artist, and Album of the Year, among others.

On June 15, the network announced the initial lineup of performers, confirming that artists from both the East and West Coast will captivate the audience.

Viewers can anticipate an impressive array of performers, including Fat Joe, Soulja Boy, The Sugarhill Gang, Tyga, Ying Yang Twins, and Yo-Yo, to grace the stage. Orlando, in a press release, expressed excitement about the diverse lineup, stating that the event will showcase hip-hop from various decades, styles, and regions. The party is expected to be an electrifying experience, as these artists bring their incredible energy and passion to the stage, celebrating the rich history, enduring legacy, and promising future of hip-hop.

The BET Awards have consistently ranked as the top cable awards show for adults aged 18 to 49 in both 2021 and 2022. Additionally, it has maintained its position as the leading cable awards show for Black adults aged 18 to 49 for the past 21 years. Find out more about the upcoming 2023 BET Awards below.

When Do the BET Awards Take Place?

The awards show will air live on Sunday, June 25, live from Los Angeles.

Where Can You Watch the BET Awards?

Viewers can tune into BET and BET.com on Sunday beginning at 8 p.m. ET.

Bow Wow was named the main host of House of BET on June 16. The four-day celebration in L.A., which is scheduled from Thursday, June 22, to Sunday, is tied to the BET Awards. While the host for the awards show remains undisclosed, Bow Wow's role as the main host for House of BET has been confirmed.

The event was previously hosted by Taraji P. Henson in both 2021 and 2022. Amanda Seales was at the helm in 2020.

Lizzo. Erik Pendzich/Shutterstock

Who Is Nominated for 2023 BET Awards?

GloRilla (real name Gloria Hallelujah Woods), Lizzo, and 21 Savage were also among the top-nominated artists of the year, in addition to Drake. At the age of 23, GloRilla received six nominations, while Lizzo, 35, and 21 Savage, 30, both earned five accolades.

Who Is Performing at the 2023 BET Awards?

JaRule and GloRilla are among the nominees scheduled to perform on Sunday. Additional artists set to take the stage include Chief Keef, DJ Unk, E-40, Fast Life Yungstaz & Easton (F.L.Y.), Fat Joe, Soulja Boy, The Sugarhill Gang, Tyga, Ying Yang Twins, and Yo-Yo. More performers are expected to be announced, as stated in BET's press release on June 15th.