With the 2024 BET Awards just days away, The Root thought it would be a perfect time to look back at some of the iconic moments from the show that fans are still talking about to this day. We’re talking jaw-dropping performances, emotional tributes, and incredible speeches. We have it all! So let’s get things started with…
Chris Brown’s Michael Jackson Tribute Performance
Though this happened just one year after his controversial assault against Rihanna in 2009, this performance by Brown still holds close to a lot of viewers heart for his dancing, vocals and emotional ending.
Rick James’ Last Goodbye
Performing alongside Teena Marie for their hit song “Fire & Desire,” this would be the last performance Rick James would give before his passing a little over a month later. It was also this appearance where he gave his famous quote: “I’m Rick James, bitch!”
New Edition Tribute for Lifetime Achievement Award
Name something more iconic than the real New Edition receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award while singing alongside both the young and older versions of the new New Edition from their highly successful biopic series. We’ll wait.
Janet Jackson Breaks Silence 3 Days After Brother’s Death
Just a mere three days after the world found out Michael Jackson died, Janet Jackson made a surprising appearance at the award show to thank the awards ceremony and the crowd for their love and support.
Whitney Houston’s Lifetime Achievement Award
At the first BET Awards show ever in 2001, Whitney Houston was honored with the channel’s inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award.
Michael Jackson presents James Brown with an award
From one legend to another. There’s no way we couldn’t include this iconic moment between music legends at the 2003 BET Awards.
50 Cent shoots his shot
This was a fun light-hearted moment between celebrities. 50 Cent was a rising star in the hip-hop world and he had zero hesitation when shooting his shot with Vivica A. Fox. I respect it, you miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.
Beyoncé makes her solo debut
After being the star of Destiny’s Child for years, Beyoncé decided to do her own thing. She officially introduced herself as a solo artist at the 2003 BET Awards performing her now classic record, “Crazy In Love.”
Fugees Reunion
The Fugees hadn’t been seen together on stage in nearly a decade, so it was a pleasure to see the trio back again at the 2005 BET Awards. While I don’t remember if Lauryn Hill was on time or not, it still was a great performance.
Destiny’s Child makes their return
The members of Destiny’s Child reunited at the 2005 BET Awards putting on a show fans will never forget. Just watch it and you’ll know what I’m talking about.
Hov and Queen Bey put on a show together
Hov and Queen Bey came out together at the 2006 BET Awards, cementing the pair as a power couple in the music industry.
Janet Jackson honors the passing of her brother
Just months after her brother passed, Janet Jackson had the strength to honor the life and career of her brother at the 2009 BET Awards.
D’Angelo shows out
D’Angelo stole the show at the 2012 BET Awards, serenading every woman in attendance and at home.
Rihanna previews “Bitch Better Have My Money”
Rihanna throwing money at a random man before going on stage is an iconic moment in itself.
Tribute to Prince
Jennifer Hudson, Stevie Wonder and many other talented artists put on incredible performances to honor the life and legacy of prince, who died in April 2016.
Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar shut it down
It’s unfortunate that it’s hard to find a clear video of this breathtaking performance, but if you had a chance to see it live, you’ll remember the incredible show K. Dot and Queen Bey put on at the 2016 BET Awards.
Jesse Williams’ inspiring speech
Jesse Williams has always been a civil activist who stands up for injustice. That was never more clear than after he accepted an award at the 2016 BET Awards
Megan Thee Stallion does her thing
Even though everyone was at home watching on their TVs, Megan still put on an incredible show in the middle of the dessert. It solidified her as a force to be reckoned with in the hip-hop world.
Straight From 
Sign up for our free daily newsletter.
