The BET Awards, an annual celebration of Black excellence in entertainment, has become a highly anticipated event that showcases the incredible achievements and contributions of Black artists, actors, musicians, and athletes. The 2023 Awards take place this Sunday, June 25th, at 5 p.m. PST/8 p.m. EST on BET. 

This star-studded ceremony is a testament to the power and influence of Black culture, shining a spotlight on the diverse talents and stories that have enriched the entertainment industry. The award show also extends beyond entertainment by using the platform to address social issues and advocate for change. It’s a fitting culmination of Black Music Month!  

So, let’s take a look at some of the artists who will be key players on Sunday:

Rapper Drake leads the pack with an impressive seven nominations. Following closely behind is GloRilla with six nominations, while 21 Savage and Lizzo each garnered five nominations. Beyoncé, Burna Boy, Chris Brown, Ice Spice, and SZA all received four nominations, solidifying their presence in the music world. It’s worth noting that the Viewer’s Choice Award category made a comeback this year after being absent in the previous edition.

Check out nominees for a few of the top awards. 

Album of the Year

Anyways, Life’s Great, GloRilla

Breezy, Chris Brown

God Did, DJ Khaled

Her Loss, Drake & 21 Savage

Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, Kendrick Lamar

Renaissance, Beyoncé

SOS, SZA

Best Female R&B/Pop Artist

Ari Lennox

Beyoncé

Coco Jones

H.E.R.

Lizzo

SZA

Tems

Best Male R&B/Pop Artist

Blxst

Brent Faiyaz

Burna Boy

Chris Brown

Drake

The Weeknd

Usher

Viewer’s Choice Award

“About Damn Time,” Lizzo

“Break My Soul,” Beyoncé

“First Class,” Jack Harlow

“Jimmy Cooks,” Drake Feat 21 Savage

“Kill Bill,” SZA

“Last Last,” Burna Boy

“Super Freaky Girl,” Nicki Minaj

“Wait For U,” Future Feat. Drake & Tems

See the full list of awards and nominations here. 

In addition to the exciting nominations, the BET Awards earlier revealed the first wave of performers for the upcoming ceremony. Among those announced were 69 Boyz, Big Daddy Kane, Chief Keef, DJ Unk, E-40, Fast Life Yungstaz & Easton (F.L.Y.), Fat Joe, Ja Rule, Kid ‘N Play, MC Lyte, Percy “Master P” Miller, Remy Ma, Soulja Boy, The Sugarhill Gang, Trick Daddy, Trina, Tyga, Uncle Luke, Warren G, Ying Yang Twins, Yo-Yo and nominees Coco Jones and GloRilla, plus hitmakers Doechii and Lil Uzi Vert, with a few more surprises surely to come. 

As the anticipation builds, fans can look forward to witnessing a night filled with extraordinary talent, unforgettable moments, and deserving artists being recognized for their outstanding contributions to culture.

Who do you think will take home BET Awards this weekend? Let us know in the comments below!