Usher was bestowed with the prestigious 2024 BET Lifetime Achievement Award During the BET Awards on Sunday night (June 30).
Legendary songwriting duo Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis took the stage initially, setting the tone with reflections on Usher’s remarkable journey that began in his teenage years.
They were followed by a tribute video celebrating Usher’s decades-long impact on music, featuring heartfelt testimonials from peers like Jennifer Hudson, Jermaine Dupri, Janelle Monáe, Toni Braxton, and others. They highlighted his prowess as a dancer, singer, songwriter, and enduring artist who has consistently delivered chart-topping hits.
The tribute continued with a medley performance by a lineup of music’s brightest talents across hip-hop, pop, and R&B, each paying homage through renditions of Usher’s most iconic songs.
Childish Gambino started the musical homage with an ethereal rendition of “U Don’t Have to Call,” followed by Keke Palmer delivering a spirited version of “You Make Me Wanna.” The medley continued with Summer Walker, Coco Jones, Marsha Ambrosius, Chloe, and Tinashe, each performing hits like “Good Good,” “There Goes My Baby,” “Confessions,” “Good Kisser,” and “Nice and Slow.”
Victoria Monét and Teyana Taylor then recreated Usher’s iconic performance of “Bad Girl,” before Latto concluded the tribute with a rap rendition of “Yeah!”
Finally, Usher was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, who were joined on stage by L.A. Reid and Babyface to honor the music icon. The momentous occasion included a reflection on Usher’s unforgettable audition at LaFace Records as a young teenager.
Usher, visibly moved, began his acceptance speech by acknowledging the challenges he faced, including the impact of his father’s absence on his life and career, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness.
“This year is about fatherhood,” Usher declared, recognizing the supportive men in his life and the pivotal role they played in his success. Despite parts of his speech being censored due to technical issues or sensitive content, Usher’s central message resonated.
“For my children—Usher V, Naviyd, Sovereign, and Sire—this is all for you,” he expressed passionately, closing with a poignant reminder on the power of forgiveness and the impact it has had on his journey.