The 2011 BET Hip Hop Awards opened in the spirit of determination and perseverance with a strong performance of 'F.A.M.E.'
by
Young Jeezy and
T.I. It was the perfect setting for Jeezy to thumb his nose at the skeptics and solidify his place in the industry despite the
most recent delay of his long-awaited LP 'TM103.'
Bringing Tip out for his featured verse quelled the murmurings regarding
whether or not he still possesses his fiery stage presence. He does -- unequivocally. As the crowd rose to its feet both in
anticipation and support, Tip delivered as always, looking cool, confident and obviously ecstatic to be back at work.
Chris Brown's monster hit 'Look At Me Now,' won awards in multiple categories.
Busta Rhymes, whose spitfire flow was featured on the track, accepted all the awards on behalf of Brown, who was absent due to his touring
schedule. Upon the acceptance of the third award, Busta quipped that this was the first time he had won so many trophies in
one sitting in his career, hinting that Brown might be part of the reason why.
Comedian
Mike Epps hosted the show, and although some jokes fell flat, he was current in his content, at one point suggesting that
Ray J and
Fabolous take boxing lessons. "No more scratching!" he scolded.
LL Cool J graciously accepted his 'I Am Hip Hop Award' -- given to OGs in the rap industry -- from Nelly. Sporting a pair of shades
at the podium, LL admitted in disbelief that he was "choked up" at the honor. His acceptance speech was -- in true hip hop
fashion -- an insightful and moving poem.
The focal point of the Hip Hop Awards has always been the collection of cyphers,
spotlighting lesser-known artists in addition to those who've already made their mark. Newcomers such as
Blind Fury and Sean Cross, freestyled alongside a host of veterans, including
Lady of Rage and
Ludacris.
Slaughterhouse,
Yelawolf and
Eminem evoked the biggest response from the audience. Gospel rapper
Lecrae was crisp and focused as he spit one-liners on faith and saints. But the most pleasant surprise was singer/songwriter
Estelle, donning her MC cap and going in over a
James Brown sample, doing an amazing job.
The performances ranged from old school to new school, with
Wiz Khalifa and rookie
Chevy Woods igniting the auditorium with the banger 'Taylor Gang.' The slim rapper spastically hopped across the stage, writhing around
shirtless while practicing near-perfect breath control.
DMX, celebrating his own homecoming, shocked everyone in attendance, rocking a medley of tracks from his Ruff Ryders catalogue.
Swizz Beatz assisted as
Darkman X blew through 'Get At Me Dog,' 'Stop, Drop' and 'Lose My Mind.'
MMG,
Big Sean and
Lupe Fiasco all had their turn onstage as well. Perhaps the most intriguing performance of the night was
Heavy D closing out the show with his own collection of hits, ranging from 'Nuttin' But Love' to 'Is It Good To You.' The "Overweight
Lover" glided effortlessly across the stage with his crew of dancers and proved to be just as graceful as he was in the early
'90s.
The 2011 BET Hip Hop Awards will air on BET on Tuesday, Oct. 11 at 8PM. Click
here for a full list of the nominees.