MusicFreaks

Tag: Doechii

  • SZA, Doechii Lead Lauryn Hill BET Awards Tribute

    Ms. Lauryn Hill

    The music world celebrated a legend last night as Ms. Lauryn Hill was honored with the newly created Living Legend Icon award at the BET Awards, solidifying her status as one of history’s most influential artists. The celebration was a vibrant tapestry woven with powerful performances and deeply personal reflections, marking not just a career milestone but a moment of shared cultural reverence.

    The evening kicked off with an explosive display of talent, featuring collaborations that bridged generations and genres. SZA and Doechii set the tone by performing a rendition of the Fugees’ “Ready or Not,” while Tierra Whack and Tems delivered a sultry performance of “Fu-Gee-La.” The musical lineup continued to delve into Hill’s extensive catalog, with Doja Cat tackling the classic “Superstar” before joining Nas for an unforgettable performance of “If I Ruled the World (Imagine That),” a track that originally featured Hill’s iconic vocals.

    The tribute extended across the spectrum of music and culture. The powerful gospel-inflected duo War & Treaty shared a moving rendition of “His Eye Is on the Sparrow,” a song intrinsically linked to Hill’s career legacy due to its inclusion in the 1993 film Sister Act 2.

    Beyond the stage, the celebration brought together family and industry figures, including Hill’s children Selah, YG Marley, and Zion Marley, alongside appearances from Lizzo, Rapsody, and Alexia Jayy. The emotional crescendo arrived when Queen Latifah and Common joined forces for a fiery performance of “Lost Ones,” a defining track from the seminal 1998 album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.

    The night’s true surprise came when Ms. Hill took center stage. With a playful quip about missing a song, she launched into “Ex-Factor,” prompting a standing ovation at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater. Earlier in the evening, Ice Cube presented the award, praising Hill as one of the most influential artists in hip-hop and R&B history.

    In a moment that touched many hearts, Ms. Hill reflected on the guiding principles of her career. She shared that she pursues her work to ensure others experience the richness of her journey. “We may not always agree all the time, but I’m rooting for you and I’m grateful that you root for me sometimes too,” she told the audience. “All of our differences, all of our uniqueness, that’s the beauty, ya’ll. We don’t have to sound the same. We don’t have to be the same. We don’t have to look the same. That’s the beauty. I love you.”

    The ceremony also highlighted the enduring influence of other icons. Janet Jackson appeared unannounced to present the Icon of the Year award to Teyana Taylor, who was visibly moved by the surprise. Jackson praised Taylor’s work ethic and artistic versatility, recognizing her talents as “God-given.” Reflecting on her own two-decade career, Taylor emphasized gratitude: “I worked my ass off 20 years. So I’m not accepting what I’ve earned with arrogance. I’m accepting what I’ve earned with gratitude.”

    The tribute further honored the legacy of D’Angelo, featuring appearances by his children before performances from Ari Lennox, BJ the Chicago Kid, Durand Bernarr, George Clinton, and RAYE, celebrating the lasting influence of neo-soul’s revered figure. Music executive Sylvia Rhone also received the BET Ultimate Icon Award for her groundbreaking career and influence across multiple generations of artists.

    The event concluded with a stellar lineup of performers, including Cardi B, Kehlani, Don Toliver, French Montana, Rick Ross, and Max B, all contributing to an unforgettable celebration of musical greatness.

    Credit: Spin

  • Lauryn Hill Receives BET Awards Tribute From Doechii, SZA, Tems, Tierra Whack, Doja Cat, & More

    The BET Awards stage was set for a night of pure musical reverence, culminating in an unforgettable tribute to a true icon: Lauryn Hill. The living legend was honored with the prestigious Living Legend Icon Award, rightfully cementing her legacy as one of the most influential figures in music history.

    The celebration that followed was nothing short of a masterclass in musical storytelling. The festivities kicked off with a deeply personal summary of Hill’s remarkable career, delivered by Ice Cube. He took the stage to chronicle her journey, tracing it back to her acting debut in 1993’s Sister Act 2, setting an immediate tone of respect and nostalgia.

    The tribute continued as bandmate Wyclef Jean stepped forward to share the history of their time together in the iconic Fugees. These stories provided a rich tapestry of Hill’s artistic achievements, weaving together her solo brilliance with the group dynamic that defined an era.

    But the honor was only the beginning. The tribute quickly expanded into a breathtaking gathering of musical royalty, featuring an astonishing lineup of contemporary artists who paid homage to Hill’s enduring influence. The star-studded assembly included SZA, Tems, Doechii, Tierra Whack, Nas, YG Marley, Lizzo, Queen Latifah, and Common.

    It was a powerful demonstration that Lauryn Hill‘s impact transcends generations and genres. Surrounded by such an incredible constellation of talent, the evening proved that her voice remains not just a classic, but a living, breathing force that continues to inspire and resonate across the music world.

    Credit: Stereogum

  • Best Performances at the 2026 BET Awards, Ranked

    Los Angeles was the epicenter of celebration on Sunday night (June 28) as the annual BET Awards returned, once again delivering a stellar showcase of Black excellence and cultural dominance. Moving beyond previous years, this ceremony served as a dynamic platform honoring not only musical legends but also the rising stars who are currently defining the landscape of R&B and hip-hop.

    The event was a true reunion of titans, bringing together figures whose contributions have shaped modern music. While names like Mariah Carey, Jamie Foxx, Snoop Dogg, and Kirk Franklin have graced these stages in previous years, this installment focused on acknowledging the present-day powerhouses rallying the rap and R&B Avengers.

    The night featured a powerful blend of nostalgia and forward-looking recognition. Janet Jackson brought undeniable grace to the proceedings, notably presenting the Icon of the Year Award to Teyana Taylor. The celebration also paid tribute to the many Black luminaries who have passed, with six-time Grammy winner Erica Campbell offering a stirring performance of Whitney Houston’s “I Love the Lord.”

    The scope of the awards honored a rich tapestry of musical influence. Legendary music executive Sylvia Rhone was celebrated for her enduring impact on artists such as Missy Elliott, Future, and Brandy, underscoring the deep history embedded within the industry.

    The focus remained firmly on contemporary creativity. The ceremony recognized an R&B superteam featuring Ari Lennox and Durand Bernarr for honoring the legacy of D’Angelo. Doja Cat, Doechii, and others were celebrated alongside the incomparable Lauryn Hill, while the spotlight shone on emerging talents like Kwn and Kenny Iko, who made their official BET Awards debuts.

    Beyond the legends, the night was a vibrant testament to ongoing artistic innovation. Stars like Tems and RAYE delivered standout performances, proving that Black creativity remains as energetic and vibrant as ever, setting new benchmarks for contemporary music.

    Credit: Billboard

  • Here Are the Winners of the 2026 BET Awards: Updating Live

    The stage is set for some serious celebration as the 2026 BET Awards are gearing up to hit the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday, June 28th. This isn’t just another awards show; it’s a spotlight illuminating the cultural landscape of music and entertainment.

    Hosted by the dynamic Druski, the event will air live at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET and will be broadcast across a wide array of channels, including BET HER, CMT, LOGO, MTV, MTV2, Nickelodeon (NAN), Paramount, POP, VH1, Comedy Central, and TV Land, ensuring the celebration reaches every corner of the viewing world.

    The nominations have been hotly contested by a stellar group of talent. Cardi B led the pack with six nods, demonstrating incredible momentum, closely followed by musical giants Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist, both securing five nods each. Adding to the competitive field are Doechii, Doja Cat, Clipse, Teyana Taylor, Olivia Dean, and Latto, who each earned four nominations. These selections were determined by the esteemed BET Voting Academy, a panel of entertainment professionals and influencers across music, media, marketing, and creative arts.

    Beyond the main categories, the show is introducing fresh perspectives with two brand-new awards designed to recognize cultural impact. The Fashion Vanguard Award will honor a global figure whose fashion presence has profoundly shaped style narratives and elevated fashion as powerful storytelling across music, film, sports, and public life.

    Equally important is the Pulse Award, which seeks to celebrate creators, campaigns, or content series that have most powerfully moved Black culture forward in digital spaces by sparking essential conversations, building strong communities, and defining the moment online.

    The evening promises to be packed with recognition for outstanding talent, highlighted by three special awards recognizing enduring influence: Lauryn Hill will receive the inaugural Living Legend Icon Award, Teyana Taylor is set to be named the first recipient of the Icon of the Year Award, and legendary music executive Sylvia Rhone will claim the Ultimate Icon Award.

    The production of this high-energy event is overseen by Connie Orlando, EVP of specials, music programming & music strategy at BET. The show itself is brought to life through Jesse Collins Entertainment, with Jesse Collins, Dionne Harmon, and Jeannae Rouzan-Clay serving as executive producers, ensuring a deeply meaningful and unforgettable night of celebration for the industry.

    Credit: Billboard

  • BET Awards 2026: Here’s How to Watch the Ceremony Live Online for Free

    The Culture Countdown: Get Ready for the 2026 BET Awards

    Get ready to turn up the volume, because the biggest night in music culture is just around the corner. The 2026 BET Awards are set to return to Los Angeles on Sunday, June 28, promising a celebration of rhythm, talent, and undeniable influence. This year’s festivities will be officially hosted by the dynamic Druski, setting the stage for an evening packed with celebrity moments and cultural milestones.

    The nominees list is already sparking conversation, featuring some of the most powerful voices in contemporary music. Cardi B leads the pack with six nominations, while legends like Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist are also recognized with five nods apiece. The awards celebrate a massive spectrum of talent, with artists such as Doechii, Doja Cat, Clipse, Teyana Taylor, Olivia Dean, and Latto all securing four nods each. Adding another layer of respect to the evening, the coveted Living Legend Icon Award will be presented to Ms. Lauryn Hill, honoring her mastery of her craft and enduring cultural impact.

    Beyond the nominees, the stage will also be set for incredible live performances featuring famous recording artists, including Cardi B, Doechii, Nas, RAYE, The War and Treaty, T.I., and many more. Prepare for a dazzling display of talent that truly embodies the spirit of Black entertainment.

    For those who want to catch every moment of this cultural event, there are plenty of ways to tune in. The ceremony will be broadcast live on BET on Sunday, June 28, at 8 p.m. ET/PT. Fans can access the action through various streaming platforms and cable networks.

    Options for watching include DirecTV, Paramount+, Philo, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and Fubo. For those without traditional cable packages, services like Philo offer access to over 70 live channels, including MTV, VH1, CMT, Comedy Central, and Nickelodeon, all in one subscription.

    Other streaming alternatives provide robust viewing options, allowing viewers to stream the event conveniently. Whether you prefer a comprehensive cable alternative like Fubo’s “Pro” plan, or a package like Hulu + Live TV that bundles access to major networks, there is a perfect setup for the cultural feast. For an affordable entry point, some services offer free trials so you can experience the entertainment before committing to a subscription.

    The 2026 BET Awards promise to be more than just an awards show; they are a reflection of the culture itself—a powerful celebration of artistic achievement and enduring influence that everyone will want to witness on Sunday night.

    Credit: Billboard

  • Olivia Rodrigo Launches Massive All-Female Fest

    Olivia Rodrigo Launches Massive All-Female Festival

    Pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo is turning her advocacy into an unforgettable event with the launch of Daisy Chain Fields, a massive single-day festival dedicated entirely to women and girls. This isn’t just a concert; it’s a powerful statement that joy, community, and creativity are the ultimate drivers of meaningful change.

    Mark your calendars for August 29th, as this incredible event will take place at Great Park in Irvine, California. Daisy Chain Fields is designed to celebrate the voices, artistry, and contributions of women across the spectrum, fostering an environment where connection and inspiration thrive.

    The festival promises an eclectic and electrifying lineup spanning two stages, bringing together some of the most dynamic names in music history alongside incredible artists and organizations focused on empowerment. The roster is stacked with talent from stars like Rodrigo, Chappell Roan, Doechii, Bikini Kill, Garbage, Mitski, Santigold, The Breeders, Rachel Chinouriri, KATSEYE, Die Spitz, Eli, Quiet Light, and Not for Radio.

    Adding to the magic are special guests who will lend their legendary presence, including Karen O, Sarah McLachlan, and Stevie Nicks, ensuring the event is steeped in musical history and powerful feminine energy.

    But Daisy Chain Fields is much more than a collection of performances. It is fundamentally built on a mission: to cultivate an inclusive space for dialogue, education, and activism. The festival aims to use the collective power of music and shared experience to inspire progress and social change.

    The event acts as a powerful nexus combining entertainment with philanthropy. Net proceeds from Daisy Chain Fields will directly benefit numerous nonprofits focused on critical issues facing women and girls, ranging from reproductive rights and economic empowerment to domestic violence prevention and maternal health.

    Attendees can expect far more than just live music. The festival features nonprofit activations, community art experiences, fan pop-ups, local vendors, and immersive installations that deepen the sense of community and engagement.

    Partnering with organizations such as Planned Parenthood, Baby2Baby, Black Mamas Matter Alliance, the Center for Reproductive Rights, the National Women’s Law Center, FreeFrom, and the National Domestic Workers Alliance, the event ensures that the celebration directly supports vital causes.

    As Olivia Rodrigo shared in her announcement, she emphasized that the core purpose of Daisy Chain is to create space for meaningful moments of connection across generations. She framed the festival’s goal as harnessing the energy of music to serve as enduring drivers of progress and social change.

    It’s a powerful reminder that when we bring together creativity and community, we don’t just create unforgettable moments—we build an unbreakable chain of hope. Daisy Chain Fields is proving that music can be a force for good, celebrating the wild beauty of women as they stand strong and connected.

    Credit: Spin

  • Olivia Rodrigo Launches All-Women Music Festival with Chappell Roan, Bikini Kill, Doechii

    Music is more than just sound; it is a powerful force for community, identity, and inspiration. Recently, singer-songwriter Olivia Rodrigo has channeled this energy into something monumental: the launch of her own all-women music festival, Daisy Chain Fields.

    Taking cue from the spirit of Lilith Fair, the festival is set to bring together talent and intention for a cause. Planned for August 29th, Daisy Chain Fields will take place at the Great Park in Irvine, California, promising an unforgettable experience where artistic expression meets advocacy.

    The event isn’t just about music; it’s deeply rooted in social responsibility. Net profits from ticket sales will be directly channeled to nonprofit organizations dedicated to supporting the rights of women and girls, ensuring that the joy of the festival fuels meaningful change.

    The lineup for this inaugural event is already breathtaking, featuring a powerhouse collective of artists. Attendees can look forward to performances by names like Chappell Roan, Bikini Kill, Doechii, Mitski, the Breeders, Garbage, Katseye, Santigold, and Rachel Chinouriri. The event will also be elevated by special guest appearances from iconic figures such as Stevie Nicks, Karen O, and Sarah McLachlan.

    Olivia Rodrigo shared the profound motivation behind this venture, emphasizing the deep connection she feels to young female audiences. “I feel really connected to the young girls that come to my concerts, and the fact that I get to be in the fabric of their lives is a real, true honour that I don’t take lightly,” she stated. She believes there is a vital need for positive role models who are engaging in joyful, musical, and community-oriented activities that champion other women.

    Daisy Chain Fields represents more than just a concert; it’s a declaration of support—a vibrant platform where music serves as a catalyst for empowerment and connection. Fans are invited to join this movement by securing their spots.

    Ticket presales begin this Wednesday, June 24th, at 1 p.m. ET. This is the opportunity to become part of the story as Daisy Chain Fields prepares to make waves in the world of music and advocacy.

    Credit: Exclaim!