The 2026 BET Awards, held on June 28, was a night of celebration, emotion, and unforgettable performances. Among the standout moments were Doechii and SZA’s acceptance speech for the BET Her award and a spectacular tribute to Lauryn Hill.
Doechii, known as the Swamp Princess, and SZA’s collaboration on the track ‘girl, get up.’ earned them the prestigious BET Her award. Their acceptance speech was a heartfelt exchange of gratitude and support, highlighting the challenges they faced while creating the record.
An Emotional Acceptance Speech
During their acceptance speech, Doechii expressed her deep appreciation for SZA’s support during a difficult time. ‘BET, thank you so, so, so, so much for this award. Y’all don’t understand how hard me and SZA worked putting that record together. It was at a time where, girl, I was going through it,’ Doechii began.
She continued to thank SZA for her unwavering support, mentioning how SZA was up until 4 or 5 a.m. writing for the song. ‘But I’m so glad that you pulled through for me, sister. I just wanna say thank you so much,’ Doechii said, to which SZA responded, ‘Anything for you, always!’
The emotional moment took an unexpected turn when a saxophone abruptly cut off SZA mid-sentence. Doechii humorously called out the musician, asking, ‘Why they play?’ She then announced exciting news about upcoming music, warning her critics to be ready for her comeback.
A Star-Studded Tribute to Lauryn Hill
The evening also featured a robust all-star tribute to Lauryn Hill, who received the Living Legend Icon Award. The tribute included performances by Doechii, SZA, Nas, Doja Cat, War & Treaty, and many others. Ice Cube introduced the tribute, praising Hill’s significant impact on Black music history.
The War & Treaty kicked off the tribute with a powerful rendition of ‘His Eye Is on the Sparrow,’ a song Hill performed in the film ‘Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit.’ SZA and Doechii then took the stage for a rendition of The Fugees’ ‘Ready or Not,’ followed by performances by Tierra Whack, Tems, and Selah Marley.
Doja Cat delivered a captivating performance of ‘Superstar’ and later joined Nas for a rendition of their hit ‘If I Ruled the World (Imagine That).’ The tribute concluded with Queen Latifah and Common performing ‘Lost Ones.’
After a commercial break, Lauryn Hill took the stage to perform ‘Ex-Factor,’ sharing that she wasn’t originally scheduled to perform but stepped in when another artist bowed out. Ice Cube presented her with the award, and Hill delivered a heartfelt acceptance speech, emphasizing her commitment to representing the dignity of Black people.
Hill’s speech highlighted her dedication to sharing love and pouring into people through her music. She concluded the BET Awards with a rendition of ‘Everything Is Everything,’ leaving the audience in awe.
The 2026 BET Awards also honored other notable figures, including Teyana Taylor, who received the Icon of the Year award presented by Janet Jackson, and music executive Sylvia Rhone, who was honored with the Ultimate Icon Award presented by Kelly Rowland.
