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South African artists Tyla and Makhadzi shone brightly at the 2024 BET Awards, held at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles. Tyla, 22, won Best New Artist and Best International Act, while Makhadzi secured the BET Viewers' Choice: Best International Act.
Tyla, dazzling on the blue carpet in a bespoke Versace gown paired with over $230,000 worth of jewelry from Jared Atelier, expressed her gratitude: “This is crazy. I love Sexyy Red. I love her so much. This is such a gift to be here. I want to dedicate this one to Africa.” Her electrifying performance of "Jump" featured American rapper Gunna and Jamaican dancehall artist Skillibeng.
Makhadzi, dressed in a South African flag-inspired gown by Mamello Makha, was overwhelmed with joy upon receiving her award. “I’m so happy, I’m someone who started music from the streets, and today I’m here, my dream just came true,” she said. She dedicated her win to her fans, saying, “I’m Makhadzi because of my fans and my followers, who keep on supporting me.”
Tyla's success at the BET Awards follows her win at the 2024 Grammys for Best African Music Performance with her hit "Water." She is the third non-U.S. winner of the BET's Best New Artist, following in the footsteps of Nicki Minaj and Sam Smith.
The 2024 BET Awards also celebrated numerous other artists. Usher received the Lifetime Achievement Award and Best Male R&B/Pop Artist for the fifth time. His tribute performance featured Childish Gambino, Keke Palmer, and other stars. Usher, reflecting on his career, said, “Getting here has definitely not been easy, but it has been worth it.”
Victoria Monét won Video of the Year and the BET Her award for her song "On My Mama," while Killer Mike’s "Michael" won Album of the Year. SZA took home Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, and Kendrick Lamar won Best Male Hip-Hop Artist for a record-extending seventh time. Nicki Minaj won Best Female Hip-Hop Artist for the eighth time, and Beyoncé secured the Viewer’s Choice Award for the fifth time with "Texas Hold ’Em."
The event featured performances by Lauryn Hill, Megan Thee Stallion, and many others. Lauryn Hill's closing performance included tracks from her album "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill" and a special appearance by Wyclef Jean. Megan Thee Stallion's performance was her first at the BET Awards in three years, showcasing tracks from her new album "Megan."
