For nearly 20 years, the BET Awards have marked the best of the best when it comes to black excellence in the music industry.
Not only is the art behind the show often history-making, but each year, the broadcast of the show tends to be unforgettable, often full of its fair share of shocking and heartwarming moments.
From Rick James' jaw-dropping last performance to Beyoncé being, well, Beyoncé, the BET Awards have left audiences surprised at every turn and usually in the very best way possible. These nine moments were especially poignant in the scheme of the show's history.
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1. Beyoncé left Terrence Howard — and viewers at home — breathless.
Before her days as a solo artist, Beyoncé was a member of Destiny's Child. Joined by fellow members Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams, Beyoncé led the group in a sultry performance of their single "Cater 2 U" at the 2005 awards, one that involved an unforgettable lap dance.
After emerging from fog and beginning the song, the three women chose three men to give a lap dance as they sang. In the end, Nelly, Magic Johnson, and Terrence Howard ended up on stage and Howard's face pretty much said it all.
Because Beyoncé is Beyoncé, she also managed to end the song with a pretty impressive run, all while Terrence Howard seemed to be only a set of heart eyes away from turning into a cartoon character.
2. Michael Jackson paid tribute to James Brown.
At the 2003 BET Awards, Michael Jackson presented "genius" James Brown with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.
Jackson was emotional as he discussed Brown's impact, both in the music industry as a whole and for himself personally growing up.
"I couldn't refuse to give this award tonight because nobody has influenced me more than this man right here," Jackson said before hugging Brown.
Viewers were also verklempt as they watched the two legends share the stage in a display of mutual respect and true, sincere emotion.
3. Janet Jackson opened up about her brother's death.
Janet Jackson broke her silence at the 2009 BET Awards after her brother Michael's passing.
Jackson, who is notoriously private, closed the show with a short speech about how her brother's death had changed both her life and the world.
"To you, Michael is an icon," she said. "To us, Michael is family. And he will forever live in all of our hearts."
The award show took place only three days after the music icon's death, turning it into a sort of tribute show in celebration of his life.
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