by Thinus Ferreira
Nigeria's Burna Boy won the Best International Act Award for the second time at the 2020 BET Awards that was broadcast on ViacomCBS Networks Africa's BET (DStv 129) channel on Monday, while the Amapiano vocalist Sha Sha made history as the first Zimbabwean to win the Viewers' Choice Best New International Act Award.
The 2020 BET Awards with comedian and actress Amanda Seales as the host was held and broadcast virtually this year for two reasons because as she described it "outside it's all Covid and cops".
The French activist, Assa Traoré received the 2020 BET International Global Good Award.
This year was the 20th anniversary of the BET Awards and the 40th anniversary of the BET TV channel with the 2020 BET Awards that ran under the theme of "Our Culture Can't be Cancelled" in the wake of civil unrest in the United States because of the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police.
"The Best International Act categories over the years have honoured the outstanding achievements of some of the most talented international acts from across the world. BET is committed to shining a light on talent, elevating our culture and promoting diversity through song," said Monde Twala, senior vice president and general manager of ViacomCBS Networks Africa and Peer Lead BET International.
"This year’s winners and nominees reflect an abundance of creative expression. We salute all the nominees and winners.
The 2020 BET Awards this year - as a celebration of black culture, love, joy, and pride - made use of dynamic artist-generated performances and packages, filled with inspirational messages of Black Lives Matter and the need for racial equality.
During the show, Beyoncé was honoured with the Humanitarian Award for her years of philanthropic service which she dedicated to the Black Lives Matter protestors.
A slew of performers and stars appeared, including Alicia Keys, Chloe x Halle, DaBaby, D Smoke, Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, Jonathan McReynolds, Kane Brown, Lil Wayne, Megan Thee Stallion, Roddy Ricch, SiR, Summer Walker, Usher and Wayne Brady.
Several performances addressed the killings of black men and women while in police custody, the Black Lives Matter movement and the protests over police violence.
Some performances also referenced the coronavirus pandemic, incorporating Covid-19 into lyrics or masks into the performance. In addition, Lil Wayne paid tribute to Kobe Bryant while Wayne Brady honoured Little Richard. Both the NBA star and singing legend died last year.
The complete list of the 2020 BET Awards winners is:
Best International Act
Burna Boy (Nigeria)
Viewers' Choice: Best New International Act
Sha Sha (Zimbabwe)
Best Female R&B/Pop Artist
Lizzo
Best Male R&B/Pop Artist
Chris Brown
Best Group
Migos
Best Collaboration
Chris Brown featuring Drake - "No Guidance"
Best Male Hip Hop Artist
Dababy
Best Female Hip Hop Artist
Megan Thee Stallion
Video of the Year
DJ Khaled featuring Nipsey Hussle & John Legend - "Higher"
Video director of the Year
Teyana "Spike Tee" Taylor
Best New Artist
Roddy Ricch
Dr Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award
Kirk Franklin - "Just for Me"
Best Actress
Issae Rae
Best Actor
Michael B. Jordan
Youngstars Award
Marsai Martin
Best Movie
Queen & Slim
Sportswoman of the Year
Simone Biles
Sportsman of the Year
LeBron James
Album of the Year
Please Excuse Me for Being Antisocial (Roddy Ricch)
BET Her Award
Beyonce featuring Blue Ivy Carter, Wizkid & Saint JHB "Brown Skin Girl"
