Usher received a lifetime achievement award at the BET Awards this Sunday, highlighting his enduring influence in the music industry. The 45-year-old singer, known for iconic hits like “Yeah!” and “You Make Me Wanna,” also won the best R&B and hip-hop artist award at the ceremony. His acceptance speech, which lasted 15 minutes, touched on both his personal journey and broader themes of fatherhood and forgiveness.
During his speech, Usher pondered whether it was too soon to receive such an award, considering he feels his career is still very active. He shared personal anecdotes about his difficult childhood, particularly focusing on the abandonment by his father. Usher used his platform to articulate the challenges faced by many African American men, emphasizing the impact of his father’s actions on his life and the importance of forgiveness.
Usher’s reflections extended to his role as a father, calling on all fathers in the audience to acknowledge their crucial role in their children’s lives. This call to action resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom stood in recognition of the importance of fatherhood as highlighted by Usher.
The ceremony wasn’t just a celebration of Usher’s career but also featured other significant moments. Will Smith debuted a new single, “You Can Make It,” marking his return to music since 2017. Smith’s performance was both motivational and reflective, urging listeners to persevere through life’s challenges. He closed his performance with poignant lyrics about resilience and hope, suggesting a philosophical approach to overcoming adversity.
The awards show also saw a tribute to Usher with performances by artists like Childish Gambino, Keke Palmer, and Summer Walker, who each performed one of Usher’s songs, celebrating his vast impact on the music industry.
However, the event was not without controversy. The “In Memoriam” segment sparked debate for including O.J. Simpson, a decision criticized by many viewers and the families of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman. Simpson, who passed away from cancer in April at the age of 76, is a contentious figure due to his infamous legal history involving the accused double murder of Brown Simpson and Goldman in 1994. Despite his acquittal in the criminal trial, Simpson was found liable in a civil case, a verdict that remains a significant part of his legacy.
This inclusion in the BET Awards’ memorial tribute was seen by some as inappropriate, overshadowing the segment meant to honor the departed. Critics and the victims’ families expressed their dismay, questioning the decision to place Simpson alongside universally revered figures like Louis Gossett Jr. and Willie Mays.
The 2024 BET Awards thus encapsulated a range of emotions, from the highs of Usher’s heartfelt acceptance and Smith’s inspirational performance to the lows of the controversial tribute. The event highlighted the complexities of public figures’ legacies and the diverse spectrum of responses they can elicit from the public.
The full list of winners from the 2024 BET Awards are as follows:
- Album of the Year: Michael by Killer Mike
- Video of the Year: “On My Mama” by Victoria Monét
- Viewer’s Choice Award: “Texas Hold ‘Em” by Beyoncé
- Best Collaboration: “All My Life” by Lil Durk featuring J. Cole
- Best Male R&B/Pop Artist: Usher
- Best Female R&B/Pop Artist: SZA
- Best Female Hip Hop Artist: Nicki Minaj
- Best Male Hip Hop Artist: Kendrick Lamar
- Best New Artist: Tyla
- Best Group: Ye and Ty Dolla $ign
- BET Her Award: “On My Mama” by Victoria Monét
- Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award: “Me & U” by Tems
- Video Director of the Year: Cole Bennett
- Best Movie: Bob Marley: One Love
- Best Actor: Denzel Washington
- Best Actress: Regina King
- Sportswoman of the Year: Angel Reese
- Sportsman of the Year: Jalen Brunson
- Best International Act: Tyla (South Africa)
- Best New International Act: Makhadzi (South Africa)
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Usher
- YoungStars Award: Blue Ivy Carter
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