BET has announced the nominees for The BET Awards 2020 with Canadian rapper Drake leading the pack with six nominations.
Representing Nigeria on the nominees’ list this year are superstars Burna Boy and Rema who were nominated for the Best International Act and Viewers’ Choice Best New International Act respectively.
Other African nominees include South African superstar Sho Madjozi and Congolese singer-songwriter Innoss’B in the “Best International Act” category, and Zimbabwean songstress Sha Sha who is nominated in the Viewers Choice Best New International Act category.
This year’s nominees reflect an abundance of creative expression and black excellence across music, television, film, sports, and philanthropy. The awards will simulcast live on June 29, making its international broadcast premiere on BET Africa (DStv Channel 129) with a repeat broadcast on the same day.
Monde Twala, Senior Vice President and General Manager of ViacomCBS Networks Africa, commented: “We are excited to celebrate 20 years of black excellence at the BET Awards during these unprecedented times.
“The International Act categories over the years have honoured some of the most talented musicians in Africa. This continues at this year’s awards with multiple artists nominated from across the continent which is a testament to our commitment to shine a light on our own. We wish all our international nominees the best in this recognition on a global stage.”
Drake returns to the top spot securing six nods, including ‘Best Male Hip Hop Artist,’ ‘Video of the Year,’ and two nods for both ‘Best Collaboration’ and ‘Viewer’s Choice’ for his features alongside Chris Brown ( No Guidance) and Future (Life Is Good).
Newcomers Megan Thee Stallion and Roddy Ricch garnered the second most nods with five nominations each.
The nominations are selected by BET’s Voting Academy, which is composed of fans and an esteemed group of entertainment professionals in the fields of television, film, music, social media, digital marketing, sports journalism, public relations, and creative arts.
Megan Thee Stallion’s nominations include ‘Best Female Hip Hop,’ ‘Best Collaboration,’ ‘Video of the Year,’ ‘Album of the Year,’ and ‘Viewer’s Choice Award.’ Roddy Ricch’s nods include ‘Best Male Hip Hop,’ ‘Video of the Year,’ ‘Best New Artist,’ ‘Album of the Year,’ and ‘Viewer’s Choice Award.’ Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Chris Brown, Lizzo, and DaBaby are third place with four nominations each.