Whether it is the charts, the magazine, or the awards, Billboard often recognizes what is popular and trending in music. This weekend Diddy, also known as LOVE, hosted the 2022 Billboard Music Awards. In opening the show, Diddy mentioned that he hated award shows because the people who attend them are “boring”. And many echo this opinion. Viewers often opt out of watching the entire ceremony and catch clips posted later online. In an effort to change the narrative of stuffy award shows, Diddy the self-proclaimed “Vibe Curator” and “Frequency Elevator” vowed to keep it interesting. Here are some of our most memorable moments from the 2022 Billboard Music Awards.
LOVE is Back
Besides his candid Harlem-like honesty as a host, calling himself the “freest n**** alive” on live television, or warning anyone from trying him onstage, Diddy announced his music comeback. As a serial entrepreneur, he called his return to music a return to his first love. His new single, “Gotta Move On” featuring Bryson Tiller is available for pre-save and was performed at the show. Blending the old school with the new, he brought Jack Harlow on to perform “First Class” and tagged Teyana Taylor for his performance of “Mo Money More Problems”. We even got an eight-count from her daughter, Junie, which is a favorite moment in itself.
Naija to the World
Fresh off of his critically acclaimed tour, the African Giant, Burna Boy brought the African fusion to Las Vegas performing “Last Last” and “Kilometre”. His performance included screen cuts to Momma Burna singing and dancing along, impeccable footwork, and a trio of drummers. Burna Boy is not done yet, he has just announced the Love, Damini Summer 2022 Tour starting July 17 in Barbados for his upcoming album, Love, Damini.
Good 4 Olivia Rodrigo
For her first-ever BBMA’s, Olivia Rodrigo had an impressive night. She took home seven awards, the most given to one artist. Among her wins were Top Female Artist and Top Billboard Global 200 Artist, a new category.
The Future (of Rap) is Female
The girls had some of the best performances of the night. Latto performed her hit “Big Energy”. Her mic was definitely on and we heard the breath control as she rapped through her choreo in a corset (custom-made by Zigman). Megan thee Stallion won her second Top Rap Female Artist award and performed her new song “Plan B” and hit “Sweetest Pie” featuring Dua Lipa. Doja Cat received multiple wins; Top R&B Artist, Top R&B Female Artist, Top R&B Album, and Top Viral Song for “Kiss Me More” with SZA.
Icons Love Icons
Janet Jackson stepped onto the Billboard stage as a presenter and received a much-deserved standing ovation. Accompanied by a lengthy round of applause, she praised Mary J. Blige, the recipient of this year’s Billboard Icon Award. As she listed Blige’s musical accomplishments, 11 Billboard Awards, 9 Grammys, and 750 million records sold, we couldn’t help but appreciate the presence of two iconic women, supporting each other.
Go Mary, Go Mary!
The legendary, Mary J. Blige prefaced her acceptance speech with “I have a lot to say, so please don’t roll the ‘wrap it up’ music”. The icon gave her full speech, praising her team, herself, and her ghetto fabulousness, present both now and in her early days. After years of hits, powerful vocals, dance breaks, and countless knee high boots, it is always fulfilling to see Mary J. Blige receiving accolades.
LOVE is bringing Travis Scott back too
In his first public performance since November, Travis Scott took to the Billboard Music Awards stage to perform ”Mafia” and his new song, “Lost Forever”. His wintry performance with snow, fur, visual effects, and lead lady Jazzelle Zanaughtti aka @uglyworldwide, left viewers with a dilemma. While enjoying the performance, many wondered if his return to the spotlight was too soon after the Astroworld tragedy.
Little Miss Flint and the Michigan Water Crisis
As climate change efforts continue, Billboard used its platform to highlight matters outside of entertainment. Young activists making positive changes in their communities and the world, were recognized. Mari Copeny, known as Little Miss Flint, was named the third Billboard Music Awards Changemaker for her continuous efforts for clean water in Michigan.
Did you catch the show? Let us know what you thought of this years Billboard Music Awards.
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