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Hip Hop Awards 2022: A Look Back at Some of the Biggest Stars to Host the 'Hip Hop Awards'

Last year’s celebration was hosted by the trio, The 85 South

The Hip Hop Awards have been hosted by some of the funniest comedians in the business and hip hop biggest stars, including Kate Williams, Snoop Dogg, DJ Khaled, and much more. Ahead of this year’s ceremony, which is sure to be an event to remember, we look back at some of the biggest stars to ever grace the stage and hold the prestigious honor of hosting the annual musical celebration. Take a look below.

  • Katt Williams (2006 - 07)

    In 2006, Katt Williams did the honors of hosting the first ever Hip Hop Awards. The veteran comedian gave a one-of-a-kind hip hop address honoring rap’s hometown of the boogie-down Bronx, giving thanks to several pioneers of the genre, including Kurtis Blown, KRS-One, Run DMC, MC Lyte, and many more. The following year, the comedian returned to the Hip Hop Awards stage as host for another unforgettable night and hip hop music.

  • T-Pain (2008)

    In 2008, T-Pain became the first rapper to host the Hip Hop Awards. The “Buy U a Drank” emcee maintained that title until 2013, when West Coast legend Snoop Dogg took over the reins.

  • Mike Epps (2009)

    Mike Epps first took on hosting duties in 2009 and maintained his role for the next three years, last hosting the annual event in 2012. The veteran comedian’s tenure is filled with hilarious and unforgettable award show moments, including his wildly funny impression of former President Barack Obama.

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  • Lil Duval (2019)

    Comedian-turned-rapper-then-comedian-again Lil Duval lit up the 2019 Hip Hop Awards stage the only Lil Duval can, bringing on the laughter one skit at a time.  When he’s not hosting the biggest night in hip hop music, he’s on social media keeping the comedic antics going.

  • The 85 South / Karlous Miller, DC Young Fly, & Chico Beans (2020 - 21)

    The guys of The 85 South Karlous Miller, DC Young Fly, & Chico Beans have held down the hosting duties since 2020. During the 2021 Hip Hop Awards, the crew opened the show by coming out rapping to some Pimp C and dancing to Soulja Boy’s classic hit “Crank Dat,” and that was just the tip of the comedic iceberg.

    Watch the Hip Hop Awards on  Tuesday, October 4, at 9 PM ET/PT on BET.

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