Kendrick Lamar Dominates the 25th BET Awards with Five Wins

The 25th BET Awards, held on June 9, 2025, at Los Angeles' Peacock Theater, marked a significant milestone in celebrating Black excellence across music, film, and sports. Hosted by comedian Kevin Hart, the ceremony honored outstanding achievements and featured performances that underscored the rich cultural contributions of Black artists.

Kendrick Lamar emerged as the evening's most decorated artist, securing five awards from his ten nominations. His accolades included Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Album of the Year for "GNX," and Video of the Year for "Not Like Us." Additionally, Lamar, alongside director Dave Free, received the Video Director of the Year award. These honors further cement Lamar's status as a pivotal figure in contemporary hip-hop.

Rising star Doechii was named Best Female Hip Hop Artist. In her acceptance speech, she addressed the government's military response to anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles, urging the audience to reflect on the state of democracy. She stated, "I know that there is some Black girl out there, so many Black women out there who are watching me right now, and I want to tell you, you can do it." This moment highlighted the BET Awards' platform for artists to engage with pressing social issues.

SZA was honored as the Best Female R&B/Pop Artist and won Best Collaboration with Lamar for their song "Luther." The ceremony also featured a tribute to the late Roberta Flack, with Andra Day performing "Killing Me Softly With His Song." Additionally, Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx, Snoop Dogg, and Kirk Franklin received the BET Ultimate Icon Award for their contributions to music and community impact.

The event was attended by major music and entertainment industry stars, underscoring its prominence in honoring Black excellence. The 25th BET Awards not only celebrated artistic achievements but also served as a platform for addressing social issues, reflecting the event's commitment to amplifying voices advocating for justice and democracy.