The taping of the ninth annual BET Hip-Hop Awards went down in Atlanta yesterday (Sept. 20). Hosted by Snoop Dogg, the night awarded hip-hop’s biggest artists of the year, as Drake led the pack with eight nominations and Jay Z, Future and Pharrell all raking in six each. The highest honor of the night, however, was given to Doug E. Fresh, who accepted the “I Am Hip-Hop” icon award.
The heralded rapper, producer and master beatboxer took the stage at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center with his speech, during which he shared that his mother recently passed away from Alzheimer’s disease.
“I have to acknowledge her,” he said. “I want to thank this woman and hip-hop. If it wasn’t for hip-hop, I don’t know where I would be.”
Following his speech, Doug E. Fresh offered a rendition of his classic “La Di Da Di” alongside Snoop. Other winners of the night included DJ Mustard who took home Producer of the Year, while Future’s “Move That Dope” snagged Best Club Banger. Performers included T.I., Young Thug, Brandy, and Common, whose set ended with a tribute to Mike Brown.
The 2014 BET Hip-Hop Awards airs Oct. 14.
Photo Credit: BET