BET HONORS HOUSTON’S CAREER
In First Awards Ceremony
Whitney Houston received a lifetime achievement award at the first ever BET awards, held Tuesday (6/19) in Las Vegas.
Christina Aguilera and Luther Vandross performed two of Houston's songs before she received her award to a standing ovation. Houston sang two songs before her mother, Cissy Houston, and daughter Bobbi Kristina Brown presented the award.
"God has blessed her with a glorious talent that will never be forgotten," Cissy Houston said. "Now if only she could forget about the acting career."
Other performances included Snoop Dogg, Usher, Sisqo, best male group and video of the year winner OutKast, best female group winners Destiny's Child, viewer’s choice winner Lil' Bow Wow and best male hip-hop artist Jay Z. Female hip-hop artist winner Eve also performed "Let Me Blow Your Mind" with Gwen "Pretty Damn White" Stefani.
The 2 -hour live telecast featured 15 BET Awards recognizing African American entertainers and athletes in music, film and sports. Other winners included Nelly, who received a best new artist nod, and Allen Iverson of the Philadelphia 76ers, who ousted Shaquille O’Neal for best male athlete. Shaq responded by suggesting a "best athlete, musician and actor" award for next year, then reminding everyone of his emotional role in Kazaam!
