And the Nominees Are...

Get the inside scoop on this year's nominees!

/content/dam/betcom/specials/betawards13/beta13_PageProperties_16x9_Nominees.jpg

1 / 90

And the Nominees Are... - You've been counting down the days, checking your Twitter feeds and hottest gossip blogs all in anticipation of the announcement that's to come. Are you ready? Because we are! The nominees for the HOTTEST award show in the industry are in. Of course the iconic giants like Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Kanye West and Rihanna are included, but what stars will surprise you? Hit the next button for the BET Awards 2013 nominations! 

Beyoncé’s Mother's Day message to her mother: - “When I look into your eyes, I am sooo proud. Now that I'm a mother, I truly realize all the sacrifices you made for us. My love for you goes beyond what I can say.”(Photo: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)

2 / 90

Beyoncé - What a great year for Queen Bey! From her Super Bowl XLVII performance to the launch of her new Mrs. Carter Show World Tour, Bey definitely deserves to be nominated for the Best Female R&B/Pop Artist award.Before the winner is announced on June 30th, though, the Beyhive should expect Mrs. Carter to slay the stage at the 2013 BET Experience.Let's continue exploring our wonderful nominees for this year's Best Female R&B/Pop Artist award.

Photo By Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

73321903

3 / 90

Tamar Braxton - For years Tamar Braxton has attempted to reach her goals of releasing solo music...and the wait is over! After much trial and error, Tamar has soared to the top of the charts with her most recent release "Love and War" off of her anticipated third album release by the same name as her hit single.As this diva prepares for this year's BET Awards '13 as a Best Female R&B/Pop Artist award nominee, she also braces herself for motherhood.   

Alicia Keys, @aliciakeys - Tweet: "Can't wait for when my fam can check out my new @ReebokClassics A. Keys Fall wedges! Release date soon!! ;-)" Who said only rappers and athletes can have their own sneaker? R&B star Alicia Keys teases fans with a twit-pic of her new "A. Keys Fall wedgies," set to drop later this year.(Photo: Paul Morigi/Getty Images for BET)

4 / 90

Alicia Keys - Talk about on fire! From her 2001 debut release, Songs in A Minor, Keys keeps blazing trails. For nearly seventeen years Alicia Keys has continued to belt out tunes that are both popular and poignant, not to mention the work she does outside of music with the Keep a Child Alive Foundation. As the co-founder of the organization Keys helps to provide medicine to families with AIDS and HIV.As of late, Miss Keys has been burning bright and heating up the charts with songs such as: "Girl on Fire" and the sexy radio hit "Fire We Make" feat. Maxwell — a prime candidate for our Best Female R&B/Pop Artist nomination.

Rihanna @rihanna - Tweet: "My first fashion show!!! My designs will walk the catwalks of London Fashion Week in days!! It's gonna be MAJAH! #RihannaForRiverIsland"Pop sensation and fashion icon Rihanna is excited for her collaboration with British clothing line River Island. (Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

5 / 90

Rihanna - In 2005, the world was jolted to dance with Rihanna's debut album, Music of the Sun. From then on bad girl Rih Rih managed to maintain her sun-kissed shine, charisma, and stage presence. Over the years, Rih Rih transformed into an Unapologetic young woman and one of our BET Awards '13 Best Female R&B/Pop Artist, Video of the Year (for "Diamonds") and Coca-Cola Viewers Choice Award nominees. The Navy salutes Rihanna on her nomination!  

Photo By Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images

ADVERTISEMENT
Elle Varner - Quirky. Honest. Fun. Just a few words to describe songstress Elle Varner. A NYU Clive Davis Department of Recorded Music graduate, Varner was also featured in BET's Music Matters campaign in 2011. Now as a Best Female R&B/Pop Artist nominee, we don't expect anything less from the "Refill" singer.  

6 / 90

Elle Varner - Quirky. Honest. Fun. Just a few words to describe songstress Elle Varner. A NYU Clive Davis Department of Recorded Music graduate, Varner was also featured in BET's Music Matters campaign in 2011. Now as a Best Female R&B/Pop Artist nominee, we don't expect anything less from the "Refill" singer.  

Chris Brown on how he deals with negative press and rumors:  - “With my personal life, I try and incorporate my music with it so if people are looking at a story or following any BS they may be listening to [about me] they can always go back to the record and hear my side of the story or my point of view.”  (Photo: Thomas Janssen, PacificCoastNews.com)

7 / 90

Chris Brown - Electric performer Chris Brown cleaned up his act this year. Mixing R&B sensibilities with thumping dance backdrops, Breezy remains a young artist to be reckoned with and the first of our Best Male R&B/Pop Artist nominees. Aside from his public triumphs in past years, the 24-year-old Michael Jackson-esque singer has released hit after hit, specifically between 2011 and now: "Yeah 3x," "Look at Me Now," "Beautiful People," "Don't Judge Me," and "Don't Wake Me Up."

Bruno Mars - Musician Bruno Mars' unique style and vocal signifies his nomination as one of the Best Male R&B/Pop Artist nominees. Here, Mars appears during MTV's The Seven in New York City.(Photo: Scott Gries/PictureGroup)

8 / 90

Bruno Mars - Musician Bruno Mars' unique style and vocal signifies his nomination as one of the Best Male R&B/Pop Artist nominees. Here, Mars appears during MTV's The Seven in New York City.(Photo: Scott Gries/PictureGroup)

Miguel - When you want an artist to collaborate with, call Miguel. By far, he has been the rising star of the R&B world, so it's no surprise that he's nominated for Best Male R&B/Pop Artist, Coca-Cola Viewers Choice and Video of the Year for Adorn.  (Photo: John Ricard / BET)

9 / 90

Miguel - When you want an artist to collaborate with, call Miguel. By far, he has been the rising star of the R&B world, so it's no surprise that he's nominated for Best Male R&B/Pop Artist, Coca-Cola Viewers Choice and Video of the Year for Adorn.  (Photo: John Ricard / BET)

Justin Timberlake @jtimberlake - Tweet: "I'm seeing all of these bday wishes from everyone. Thank you from an #oldfart Hope you guys have a great day too! #32 #nonethewiser"Justin Timberlake takes in all the love from fans for his 32nd birthday.(Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images)

10 / 90

Justin Timberlake - After a six-year hiatus, hindsight brought Justin Timberlake to The 20/20 Experience. A music veteran, JT — a six-time Grammy Award winner — knows a thing or two about winning awards.We expect him to be content as long as he has his "Suit & Tie" on for his Best Male R&B/Pop Artist, Coca-Cola Viewers Choice and Video of the Year nominations. 

Photo By Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images

ADVERTISEMENT
Usher explaining his sense of humor:  - "I'm like Black Larry David. I'm kind of misunderstood. I curb your enthusiasm."  (Photo: Theo Wargo/Getty Images)

11 / 90

Usher - The last of our Best Male R&B/Pop Artist nominees, Usher proves that he has staying power. With over 20 years in the game, Usher can still hang with the best of them with hits like "OMG," "Climax," and "Lemme See" (teaming up with new heavyweight Rick Ross).There's no sign of this Confessions artist slowing down.(Photo: Theo Wargo/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Theo Wargo/Getty Images

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Newcomers to the music scene, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis are nominated for our Best Group award, with their debut album, The Heist, selling 78,000 copies in its first week. Although still new to music, Macklemore and Ryan's The Heist debuted at number two on US Billboard 200 chart, making them worthy candidates for such a nomination. (Photo: Roger Kisby/Getty Images for iHeartradio)

12 / 90

Macklemore & Ryan Lewis - Newcomers to the music scene, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis are nominated for our Best Group award, with their debut album, The Heist, selling 78,000 copies in its first week. Although still new to music, Macklemore and Ryan's The Heist debuted at number two on US Billboard 200 chart, making them worthy candidates for such a nomination. (Photo: Roger Kisby/Getty Images for iHeartradio)

Mary Mary - With a career that spans almost twenty years, this "Shackles (Praise You)" duo broke the mold in 2000 with their debut album Thankful.Now, after winning multiple Grammys, including one for their most recent song "Go Get It," the duo is nominated for the BET Awards '13 Best Group award.

13 / 90

Mary Mary - With a career that spans almost twenty years, this "Shackles (Praise You)" duo broke the mold in 2000 with their debut album Thankful.Now, after winning multiple Grammys, including one for their most recent song "Go Get It," the duo is nominated for the BET Awards '13 Best Group award.

Mindless Behavior - Ray Ray, Princeton, Prodigy and Roc Royal, who comprise the group Mindless Behavior, better known as 'MB,' are up for the Best Group award. Put together by Tamar Braxton's hubby, Vincent Herbert, Mindless Behavior has been performing all over the world in their search for "Mrs. Right." 

14 / 90

Mindless Behavior - Ray Ray, Princeton, Prodigy and Roc Royal, who comprise the group Mindless Behavior, better known as 'MB,' are up for the Best Group award. Put together by Tamar Braxton's hubby, Vincent Herbert, Mindless Behavior has been performing all over the world in their search for "Mrs. Right." 

127823243CM013_BET_Hip_Hop_

15 / 90

Slaughterhouse - Nominated for Best Group, here Slaughterhouse attends the 2011 BET Hip Hop Awards at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center on October 1, 2011 in Atlanta. (Photo: Chris McKay/Getty Images)

ADVERTISEMENT
Jay-Z and Kanye West - The throne had been dropped in 2011 when rappers Jay-Z and Kanye West released the collaborative album Watch the Throne.The "No Church in the Wild" duo's album went platinum less than a year after its initial release, solidifying them as a mainstay in rap music and our last twosome in the Best Group category.(Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images For BET)

16 / 90

Jay-Z and Kanye West - The throne had been dropped in 2011 when rappers Jay-Z and Kanye West released the collaborative album Watch the Throne.The "No Church in the Wild" duo's album went platinum less than a year after its initial release, solidifying them as a mainstay in rap music and our last twosome in the Best Group category.(Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images For BET)

Drake and 2 Chainz - Word! Drake has been ruling the airwaves and as our first Best Collaboration nominee along with 2 Chainz, there's no wonder why the two are also being considered for the Video of the Year award. No Lie! (Photos from left: Jason Kempin/Getty Images, Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

17 / 90

Drake and 2 Chainz - Word! Drake has been ruling the airwaves and as our first Best Collaboration nominee along with 2 Chainz, there's no wonder why the two are also being considered for the Video of the Year award. No Lie! (Photos from left: Jason Kempin/Getty Images, Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

Best Hip Hop Video: A$AP Rocky, Drake, 2 Chainz & Kendrick Lamar — "Problems" - Forget the special effects and big budget locations. This fantastic foursome had more than enough star power to make director Sam Lecca's straightforward treatment (rappers and flexible females) pop like a big budget affair.    (Photos from left: Christie Goodwin/Redferns via Getty Images, Gabriel Olsen/FilmMagic, Noel Vasquez/Getty Images, Theo Wargo/Getty Images for ESPN)

18 / 90

A$AP Rocky feat. 2 Chainz, Kendrick Lamar and Drake - Aside from his instinctual fashion triumphs, A$AP Rocky partnered with Drake, 2 Chianz and Kendrick to have a hip hop therapy session about their love for women. We rewarded them with nominations for Best Collaboration, Coca-Cola Viewers Choice and Video of the Year. After all, the saying does go "mo' money, mo' 'Problems.'"(Photos from left: Christie Goodwin/Redferns via Getty Images, Gabriel Olsen/FilmMagic, Noel Vasquez/Getty Images, Theo Wargo/Getty Images for ESPN)

French Montana feat. Lil' Wayne, Drake and Rick Ross - Rising star in rap French Montana collabs with growing Maybach assassin Rick Ross and two YMCMB heavyweights, Drake and Lil' Wayne. Pure magic!A shoe in for the Best Collaboration category for their work on "Pop That."(Photos from left: Johnny Louis/WENN.com, Robin Marchant/Getty Images for ESPN, John Ricard / BET, Chris McKay/Getty Images)

19 / 90

French Montana feat. Lil' Wayne, Drake and Rick Ross - Rising star in rap French Montana collabs with growing Maybach assassin Rick Ross and two YMCMB heavyweights, Drake and Lil' Wayne. Pure magic!A shoe in for the Best Collaboration category for their work on "Pop That."(Photos from left: Johnny Louis/WENN.com, Robin Marchant/Getty Images for ESPN, John Ricard / BET, Chris McKay/Getty Images)

Drake Takes Notice - Drake gave Kendrick a great look when he tapped the Compton MC to appear on "Buried Alive," from his blockbuster album Take Care. Drizzy also recruited Kendrick to open for him on his Club Paradise tour. (Photos from left: Chris McKay/Getty Images for BET, George Pimentel)

20 / 90

Kendrick Lamar and Drake - Kendrick took music by storm with his release and Drake is pretty much an already established waymaker in the rap game. All this produces a great mixture of Cali swag with international flow and another set of Best Collaboration and Video of the Year nominees. (Photos from left: Chris McKay/Getty Images for BET, George Pimentel)

ADVERTISEMENT
Jay- Z and Justin Timberlake - No qualms about it, JT and Hova struck gold with "Suit &Tie," making the song an instant hit and a great summer anthems. Thus, the two are nominated for not only one, but two awards in the Video of the Year and Best Collaboration categories. (Photos from left: Paul Zimmerman/Getty Images, Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)

21 / 90

Jay- Z and Justin Timberlake - No qualms about it, JT and Hova struck gold with "Suit &Tie," making the song an instant hit and a great summer anthems. Thus, the two are nominated for not only one, but two awards in the Video of the Year and Best Collaboration categories. (Photos from left: Paul Zimmerman/Getty Images, Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)

Kanye West feat. Big Sean, Pusha T and 2 Chainz - Kanye teamed up with most of his G.O.O.D Music artists and Def Jam Recording artist 2 Chainz on this track and we're so thirsty to announce these artists as nominees for both the Best Collaboration and Video of the Year awards.(Photos from left: Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images, John Ricard / BET, Jason Merritt/Getty Images, CPA, PacificCoastNews.com)

22 / 90

Kanye West feat. Big Sean, Pusha T and 2 Chainz - Kanye teamed up with most of his G.O.O.D Music artists and Def Jam Recording artist 2 Chainz on this track and we're so thirsty to announce these artists as nominees for both the Best Collaboration and Video of the Year awards.(Photos from left: Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images, John Ricard / BET, Jason Merritt/Getty Images, CPA, PacificCoastNews.com)

2 Chainz @2chainz  - Tweet: "Heard ni---s biting the glove! Dam MJ. Wut we gone do????smh"2 Chainz makes light of copycats imitating the one-glove style he borrowed from the late great Michael Jackson. (Photo: John Lamparski/WireImage)

23 / 90

2 Chainz - This College Park, GA, born rapper released his debut album, Based on a T.R.U. Story, in 2012 and adapted to the fast-paced industry rhyming on tracks with the likes of Kanye West, Drake and Nicki Minaj, just to name a few. That's why he's one of our Best Male Hip Hop Artist nominees.(Photo: John Lamparski/WireImage)

Photo By Photo: John Lamparski/WireImage

Made-You-Look-Award (Best Hip Hop Style): A$AP Rocky  - Mixing Harlem swag with a dose of hipster, skater boy in designer duds, A$AP Rocky is a favorite in this catergory.    (Photo: Anthony Dixon/WENN.com)

24 / 90

A$AP Rocky - A$AP Rocky aka Rakim Mayers is making a claim for the gold crown in hip hop as a BET Awards '13 Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Video of the Year and Video Director of the Year nominee along with Sam Lecca. A$AP measures up to the first part of his name, which mean to Always Strive and Prosper. And that he is doing! We'll see if comes out on top on June 30th.(Photo: Anthony Dixon/WENN.com)

Drake on his beef with Chris Brown: - "[Chris Brown’s] insecurities are the fact that I make better music than him, I'm more popping than him and at one point in life the woman that he loves fell into my lap."  (Photo:  Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

25 / 90

Drake - Drizzy continues to top the charts with hits such as: "HYFR" and "Take Care." Most recently, Drizzy has been collaborating with artists such as Kendrick Lemar, A$AP Rocky, 2 Chainz and Rick Ross, still providing evidence that he should be nominated in the Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Coca-Cola Viewers Choice and Video of the Year categories for both "HYFR" and "Started From the Bottom."(Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

ADVERTISEMENT
Future - We looooovvvvveeeee Future. While he has yet to release a fully loaded LP, the rapper still remains relevant to hip hop. Future's not so personal love-life also adds to the pot for the makings of the great rapper stew that is Future. Let's see what's in store for this Best Male Hip Hop Artist nominee on June 30th.(Photo: Chris McKay/Getty Images for BET)

26 / 90

Future - We looooovvvvveeeee Future. While he has yet to release a fully loaded LP, the rapper still remains relevant to hip hop. Future's not so personal love-life also adds to the pot for the makings of the great rapper stew that is Future. Let's see what's in store for this Best Male Hip Hop Artist nominee on June 30th.(Photo: Chris McKay/Getty Images for BET)

Kendrick Lamar @kendricklamar - Tweet: "1 more song// SNL."Kendrick Lamar tweets late night about his stellar performance on Saturday Night Live. The West coast MC is set to have another incredible year on the heels of his critically-acclaimed debut album. (Photo: Steve Mack/Getty Images)

27 / 90

Kendrick Lamar - Courtesy of Compton, Kendrick Lamar entered the music scene with fresh Cali swag and a staccato rhyme pattern. As one of BET's 2012 Music Matters performers, Kendrick has already proven he has music worth listening to. Now as a Best Male Hip Hop Artist, Best New Artist, Coca-Cola Viewers Choice and Video of the Year nominee for "Poetic Justice," he may be following in the same footsteps of one of his idols, Jay-Z, whose featured on the remix of his hit, "...Don't Kill My Vibe."(Photo: Steve Mack/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Steve Mack/Getty Images

Azealia Banks explaining her use of a gay-slur when she insulted Perez Hilton:   - "A f----t is not a homosexual male. A f----t is any male who acts like a female. There's a big difference."   (Photo: Stuart Wilson/Getty Images)

28 / 90

Azealia Banks - Known for her brash Twitter beefs and yards of extensions, Azealia Banks brings enthusiasm as one of our Best Female Hip Hop Artist and Best New Artist nominees. (Photo: Stuart Wilson/Getty Images)

Eve featuring Faith Evans, "Love Is Blind" - Eve's debut, Let There Be Eve...Ruff Ryder's First Lady, included one of the most somber Swizz Beatz songs you'll ever hear as she tackles domestic violence on "Love Is Blind." Faith Evans smooths it out with some compassionate advice: "Love is blind, and it will take over your mind/ What you think is love, is truly not/ You need to elevate and find." (Photo: Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week)

29 / 90

Eve - The self-proclaimed "pit-bull in a skirt" is up for the Best Female Hip Hop Artist award. Here, Eve poses backstage at the Falguni & Shane Peacock Fall 2013 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at The Studio at Lincoln Center in New York City.(Photo: Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week)

Nicki Minaj

30 / 90

Nicki Minaj - As one of the most outlandish female artists of contemporary hip hop music, Nicki Minaj is also the most-charted female rapper in the history of the Billboard Hot 100. An accomplishment that shouldn't be taken as lightly as her accent, playful rhyme scheme, and over the top personality.The Barbs can now give a plastic hand clap for this Best Female Hip Hop Artist nominee.(Photo: Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for EJAF)

ADVERTISEMENT
Rasheeda - Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta co-star Rasheeda, while a novice in the Best Female Hip Hop Artist category, is no novice to the music industry, having been in the game since 2000. Now is her time to finally shine as a rapping competitor with the rest of the nominees.(Photo: John Ricard / BET)

31 / 90

Rasheeda - Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta co-star Rasheeda, while a novice in the Best Female Hip Hop Artist category, is no novice to the music industry, having been in the game since 2000. Now is her time to finally shine as a rapping competitor with the rest of the nominees.(Photo: John Ricard / BET)

Rye Rye - Self-described as having a hardcore club sound, Rye Rye rounds out the list of nominees for the Best Female Hip Hop Artist category. Not to mention that Rye Rye was named Billboard's 21 Under 21, so she's paid her dues.(Photo: John Ricard / BET)

32 / 90

Rye Rye - Self-described as having a hardcore club sound, Rye Rye rounds out the list of nominees for the Best Female Hip Hop Artist category. Not to mention that Rye Rye was named Billboard's 21 Under 21, so she's paid her dues.(Photo: John Ricard / BET)

Benny Boom - Boom has directed videos for the likes of Nicki Minaj, Sean Paul, Nas, Amerie, Kelly Rowland and P. Diddy. Nominated yet again for the Video Director of the Year award, Boom won the title in 2009. (Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)

33 / 90

Benny Boom - Boom has directed videos for the likes of Nicki Minaj, Sean Paul, Nas, Amerie, Kelly Rowland and P. Diddy. Nominated yet again for the Video Director of the Year award, Boom won the title in 2009. (Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)

Director X - Canadian-born Director X has overseen videos for the likes of R. Kelly, Usher, Jay-Z and Nelly Furtado.X directed Ciara's new hit "Body Party," as well. As a Video Director of the Year nominee, it's worth mentioning that he also directed Drake's "HYFR," which is up for the title of Video of the Year. (Photo: Jag Gundu/Getty Images)

34 / 90

Director X - Canadian-born Director X has overseen videos for the likes of R. Kelly, Usher, Jay-Z and Nelly Furtado.X directed Ciara's new hit "Body Party," as well. As a Video Director of the Year nominee, it's worth mentioning that he also directed Drake's "HYFR," which is up for the title of Video of the Year. (Photo: Jag Gundu/Getty Images)

Hype Williams - Pioneering vet Hype Williams is up for Video Director of the Year after a huge year that included eye-candy like Nicki Minaj's "Stupid H--", Big Sean, Roscoe Dash and Kanye West's "Marvin Gaye & Chardonnay" and Busta Rhymes and Chris Brown's "Why Stop Now."   (Photo: Michael Buckner/Getty Images for Bing)

35 / 90

Hype Williams - As this year's Video Director of the Year nominee, Hype Williams has been at the helm of videos for artists like 2Pac, LL Cool J, Missy Elliott, Ne-Yo, Coldplay, TLC, DMX and Nicki Minaj. Definitely a directing veteran and deserving nominee. (Photo: Michael Buckner/Getty Images)

ADVERTISEMENT
Joey Bada$

36 / 90

Joey Bada$ - Named as XXL's 2013 Freshman Class, Joey Bada$ is nominated alongside Kendrick Lamar, Trinidad James, The Weeknd and Azealia Banks for the title of Best New Artist. Here's a photo of Bada$ on 106 & Park earlier this year. (Photo: John Ricard / BET)

Trinidad James, @TrinidadJamesGG - Tweet: "Music ain't about music nomore. ‪#Ducks"  This week, Trinidad James kept his music industry critique going — which started with him saying that the South runs NYC radio — even after backlash from New York hip hop fans and threats from NYC rapper Maino. (photo: John Ricard / BET)

37 / 90

Trinidad James - Trinidad James has been on a number of other artists' tracks, but his single "All Gold Everything" took the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B/Hip-Hop charts. James is a Best New Artist nominee.(Photo: John Ricard / BET)

The Weeknd, @theweeknd - Tweet: "past two nights in LA was so magical. thank you california !!!!!"The Canadian crooner really enjoyed soaking up that California love and even surprised his audience with a special appearance from Drake.(Photo: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Coachella)

38 / 90

The Weeknd - The Weeknd (aka Abel Tesfaye) is nominated for Best New Artist. Here he performs during Day 3 of the 2012 Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California.(Photo: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Coachella)

Winning - Although its sound was extremely experimental, Church On the Moon debuted at #1 on the Billboard Gospel Chart. (Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for NAACP Image Awards)

39 / 90

Deitrick Haddon - Native Detroit singer Deitrick Haddon is an unorthodox gospel artist nominated for Best Gospel Artist. Here, he poses for a portrait at the 42nd NAACP Image Awards held at The Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.(Photo: Charley Gallay/Getty Images for NAACP Image Awards)

Best Gospel/Inspirational Performance: Lecrae- "Confessions" - In this hard-hitting number, Lecrae discovers the mistake in trying to find happiness in material trappings. (Photo: Candice Lawler/BET)

40 / 90

LeCrae - Since his prominent feature in the BET Hip Hop Awards Cypher, LeCrae has made a larger splash within the music industry, bringing Christian rap to the forefront. He continues to push boundaries, hence his nomination for Best Gospel Artist.(Photo: Candice Lawler)

ADVERTISEMENT
Tamela Mann - Singer, actress and all around star — these are the reasons Tamela Mann is nominated for Best Gospel Artist.(Photo: Charley Gallay/Getty Images for NAACP)

41 / 90

Tamela Mann - Singer, actress and all around star — these are the reasons Tamela Mann is nominated for Best Gospel Artist.(Photo: Charley Gallay/Getty Images for NAACP)

Mary Mary @thereallmarymary - Tweet:"My heart is so sad today Patti Webster @PursuingGod went to be with Jesus... She was such a light in the world her heart was beautiful!"(Photo: Larry Busacca/Getty Images For The Recording Academy)

42 / 90

Mary Mary - Can anyone stop the brilliance that is Mary Mary? Maybe not but we can at least observe and give a nod with a Best Gospel Artist nomination.(Photo: Larry Busacca/Getty Images For The Recording Academy)

Marvin Sapp: January 28 - The gospel singer celebrates his 48th birthday.   (Photo: Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)

43 / 90

Marvin Sapp - The esteemed leader in divinity is up for a Best Gospel Artist award.  (Photo: Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)

Angela Bassett on the hardest part of filming What's Love Got to Do With It: - “The whole thing — from top to bottom — was like putting feet to fire. You know, just going through it… and coming out alive.”   (Photo: Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)

44 / 90

Angela Bassett - The legendary actress who starred in Olympus Has Fallen is nominated once again for Best Actress! (Photo: Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)

Halle Berry - Hallelujah Halle Berry! Yes she was frequently mentioned in Kendrick Lamar's music this year, but the Academy Award-winning actress also kept busy with movies such as Cloud Atlas and The Call, much to the delight of her fans everywhere. Will she win for Best Actress? Find out at BET Awards 2013.(Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

45 / 90

Halle Berry - Hallelujah Halle Berry! Yes she was frequently mentioned in Kendrick Lamar's music this year, but the Academy Award-winning actress also kept busy with movies such as Cloud Atlas and The Call, much to the delight of her fans everywhere. Will she win for Best Actress? Find out at BET Awards 2013.(Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

ADVERTISEMENT
Taraji P. Henson - From movies to TV, Taraji P. is an amazing actress who embodies what the Best Actress category is about.  (Photo: Mike Coppola/Getty Images)

46 / 90

Taraji P. Henson - From movies to TV, Taraji P. is an amazing actress who embodies what the Best Actress category is about. (Photo: Mike Coppola/Getty Images)

Gabrielle Union - Star of the upcoming movie and series Being Mary Jane, Gabrielle is a shining star and perfect nominee for Best Actress. (Photo: D Dipasupil/Getty Images for BET)

47 / 90

Gabrielle Union - Star of the upcoming movie and series Being Mary Jane, Gabrielle is a shining star and perfect nominee for Best Actress. (Photo: D Dipasupil/Getty Images for BET)

Most Eligible Bachelorette: Kerry Washington - She plays a perpetually single Washington power player in Scandal, and Washington's personal life isn't too different from that of her character Olivia Pope. The hard-working actress, who has been steadily climbing to the A-list since her breakthrough role in The Last King of Scotland, has been publicly single since splitting from fiancé David Moscow in 2007. (Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

48 / 90

Kerry Washington - From Scandal to Django and even the current Peeples, Kerry Washington is burning up screens left and right. That is why she's nominated for Best Actress. Got a problem with that? Get on the waitlist, because it's hard to get in touch with Ms. Pope. (Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

Don Cheadle: November 29 - The Oscar-winning actor celebrates his 48th birthday.   (Photo: Rob Kim/Getty Images)

49 / 90

Don Cheadle - Whether you watch him suit up in House of Lies or don a superhero's suit in Iron Man, there's one thing you can always expect from Cheadle: versatility. That's why he's nominated for Best Actor.(Photo: Rob Kim/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Rob Kim/Getty Images

It All Makes Sense - Rapper/Actor Common keeps a mean trim on the Red Carpet.

50 / 90

Common - When he's not dropping albums or making appaearances on Real Husbands of Hollywood, he can be found in a blockbuster movie or tearing it up in Hell on Wheels — which is probably why he's nominated for Best Actor.(Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

ADVERTISEMENT
Jamie Foxx on doing a tribute to the late Michael Jackson at the 2009 BET Awards:  - "It was a tough 48 hours. We were met with the challenge of, 'Do we do a Michael Jackson tribute or do we do a show?'"  (Photo: David Livingston/Getty Images)

51 / 90

Jamie Foxx - Star of Django Unchained, Jamie Foxx is a class act (also a onetime host of BET Awards) whose work is undeniable. Salute to him and his Best Actor nomination. (Photo: David Livingston/Getty Images)

Samuel L. Jackson: December 21 - The Django Unchained star celebrates his 64th birthday.  (Photo: Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images)

52 / 90

Samuel L. Jackson - Last year's BET Awards host and star of more movies than you can count, Jackson's Best Actor nomination is more than well-deserved. Even Siri would agree. (Photo: Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images

Denzel Washington - Did you see Denzel take Flight? Once again he delivered an amazing performance, which is why he's nominated for Best Actor.   (Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

53 / 90

Denzel Washington - Did you see Denzel take Flight? Once again he delivered an amazing performance, which is why he's nominated for Best Actor.  (Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

Jacob Latimore - Singer Jacob Latimore holds it down for the YoungStars Award nomination category! (Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)

54 / 90

Jacob Latimore - Singer Jacob Latimore holds it down for the YoungStars Award nomination category! (Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

Keke Palmer, @KekePalmer - Tweet: "I'm sooooo excited to be doing broadway for the first time, as Cinderella!! DREAMS DO COME TRUE!!"Keke Palmer not only set a record as the youngest person to snag a talk show with Just KeKe, but she's now become the first Black woman to portray Cinderella on broadway. #Congrats #MakeHistory(Photo: Mark Davis/Getty Images for BET)

55 / 90

Keke Palmer - Actress, singer, philanthropist — Keke Palmer is all these things. She's also a nominee for the YoungStars Award category! (Photo: Mark Davis/Getty Images for BET)

ADVERTISEMENT
Jaden Smith - Jaden Smith is starring alongside his father in this summer's After Earth. Is he ready for that YoungStars Award?  (Photo: Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images for BET's Rip The Runway)

56 / 90

Jaden Smith - Jaden Smith is starring alongside his father in this summer's After Earth. Is he ready for that YoungStars Award?  (Photo: Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images for BET's Rip The Runway)

Photo By Photo: Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images for BET's Rip The Runway

Quvenzhané Wallis  - Pint-size actress Quvenzhané Wallis joins us for the 2013 BET Awards as a presenter. 

57 / 90

Quvenzhané Wallis - Perhaps one of the most surprising stars from this past year, Quvenzhané Wallis is an excellent addition to the YoungStars Award category. (Photo: Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

Beasts Of Southern Wild

58 / 90

Beasts of the Southern Wild - Up for Best Film, this fantasy drama set in Louisiana featured a show stealing performance from Quvenzhane Wallis. (Photo: Journeyman Pictures)

/content/dam/betcom/images/2013/04/Celeb-04-01-04-15/041013-celebs-django-unchained-dvd-movie-poster.jpg

59 / 90

Django Unchained - Despite the controversy, Django Unchained was a huge success that managed to garner acclaim from critics everywhere. It's up for Best Film. And the D is still silent.(Photo: Columbia Pictures)

Something From Nothing: The Art of Rap - This eye-opening documentary traces how hip hop artists create their music from verses to final product. It's up for Best Film. (Photo: Indomina)

60 / 90

Something From Nothing: The Art of Rap - This eye-opening documentary traces how hip hop artists create their music from verses to final product. It's up for Best Film. (Photo: Indomina)

Photo By Photo: Indomina

ADVERTISEMENT
Sparkle (2012) - Shay ‏@Hotlikf22: "@BET 'I do know a rat when I see one! Sister, he's just going to drag you through the gutter' #Sparkle #Blackmoviequotes"  (Photo: Stage 6 Films)

61 / 90

Sparkle - The star studded cast of this remake kept audiences enthralled everywhere! Now it's nominated for Best Film and keeping everyone enthralled once again.(Photo: Stage 6 Films)

Think Like A Man

62 / 90

Think Like a Man - The 2012 sleeper hit rounds out the Best Film category. (Photo: Rainforest Films)

Gabrielle Douglas - The gold medalist whose perseverance and hard work paid off during the 2012 Olympics is up for a Subway Sportswoman of the Year and a YoungStars Award.(Photo: Dave Kotinsky/Getty Images)

63 / 90

Gabrielle Douglas - The gold medalist whose perseverance and hard work paid off during the 2012 Olympics is up for a Subway Sportswoman of the Year and a YoungStars Award.(Photo: Dave Kotinsky/Getty Images)

Brittney Griner - Brittney Griner is a decorated basketball player who has also overcome much adversity. The nomination for Subway Sportswoman of the Year is an acknowledgement of that strength. (Photo: Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

64 / 90

Brittney Griner - Brittney Griner is a decorated basketball player who has also overcome much adversity. The nomination for Subway Sportswoman of the Year is an acknowledgement of that strength. (Photo: Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Christian Petersen/Getty Images

Candace Parker - The Illinois native and LA Sparks superstar Candace Parker makes being nominated for Subway Sportswoman of the Year look so easy.  (Photo: Stephen Shugerman/Getty Images)

65 / 90

Candace Parker - The Illinois native and LA Sparks superstar Candace Parker makes being nominated for Subway Sportswoman of the Year look so easy. (Photo: Stephen Shugerman/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Stephen Shugerman/Getty Images

ADVERTISEMENT
Serena Williams: September 26 - The tennis legend and fashion designer celebrates her 31st birthday.   (Photo: Landov)

66 / 90

Serena Williams - The tennis champion makes another appearance in the Subway Sportswoman of the Year category. (Photo: Landov)

Photo By Photo: Landov

Venus Williams: June 17 - The world tennis champ and entrepreneur celebrates her 32nd birthday.(Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)

67 / 90

Venus Williams - Venus Williams also receives a  Subway Sportswoman of the Year nod just like her sister. (Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images

Victor Cruz - Throughout the streets and suburbs of New York and New Jersey, there is one wide receiver who is admired by all. His name is Victor Cruz and he's nominated for a Subway Sportsman of the Year Award.(Photo: Anna Webber/Getty Images for Delta)

68 / 90

Victor Cruz - Throughout the streets and suburbs of New York and New Jersey, there is one wide receiver who is admired by all. His name is Victor Cruz and he's nominated for a Subway Sportsman of the Year Award.(Photo: Anna Webber/Getty Images for Delta)

Kevin Durant  - Swooping in to support his team’s home city, KD donated $1 million to the American Red Cross after a severe tornado ripped through an Oklahoma City suburb in May. More than two dozen people were killed and nearly 400 were injured.  (Photo: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)

69 / 90

Kevin Durant - Leader of the Oklahoma City Thunder, he may very well be in the running for a Subway Sportsman of the Year Award.(Photo: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)

Robert Griffin III Boulevard, Copperas Cove, Texas - At the age of 23, NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III was honored with a boulevard named after him in his hometown of Copperas Cove, Texas, in 2013. (Photo: Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)

70 / 90

Robert Griffin III - The DMV's humble football hero is up for a Subway Sportsman of the Year Award. (Photo: Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)

ADVERTISEMENT
LeBron James Won’t Tweet During Playoffs - LeBron James wants to win another title and will do it by any means necessary. The Miami Heat star says he is abstaining completely from Twitter and from using his smartphone during the playoff season. (Photo: Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

71 / 90

LeBron James - The face of the NBA and legend-in-the-making may very win a Subway Sportsman of the Year Award.(Photo: Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

Ray Lewis - The face of the Ravens and most recent winner of the Super Bowl, it's clear why he's nominated for a Subway Sportsman of the Year Award.(Photo: Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)

72 / 90

Ray Lewis - The face of the Ravens and most recent winner of the Super Bowl, it's clear why he's nominated for a Subway Sportsman of the Year Award.(Photo: Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)

Kendrick Lamar, "Swimming Pools" - K. Dot dives deep into the topic of alcoholism in this single off his smash debut good kid, m.A.A.d. city, divulging his own family history with a constant "pour up, drink" problem. The point? Watch your intake.   (Photo: Interscope Records)

73 / 90

Kendrick Lamar — "Swimming Pools (Drank)" - The Good Kid made a lot of noise with his infectious ode to peer pressure. The equally artistic music video helped propel the song into further popularity. It's up for a Coca-Cola Viewers Choice Award. (photo: Interscope Records)

"Prettiest Girl" - It's a celebration of her great man on this cut as Tamar sings about how she's made to feel like the "Prettiest Girl." "It's like a fairy-tale beginning," she praises, "a heart full of love and there's no question."  (Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images for BET)

74 / 90

Tamar Braxton — "Love and War" - Tamar Braxton's got love, war and so much more — a Centric Award nomination to be exact.  (Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images for BET)

Soul Sister - Fantasia considers Franklin her "idol," and performed her "Chain of Fools" on Season 3 of American Idol, the show that catapulted 'Ta to fame. She and Franklin eventually even collaborated for Franklin's 2007 album, Jewels In The Crown: All-Star Duets With The Queen.(Photo: FOX via Getty Images)

75 / 90

Fantasia – "Lose to Win" - Will the American Idol icon lose or win this Centric Award nomination? Find out at BET Awards 2013. (Photo: FOX via Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: FOX via Getty Images

ADVERTISEMENT
Miguel — "Adorn" - 2012's breakout R&B wunderkind is up for a Centric Award, a Coca Cola Viewers' Choice Award and a Video of the Year Award for his infectious hit off of Kaleidoscope Dream. (Photo: Brad Barket/Getty Images for BET)

76 / 90

Miguel — "Adorn" - 2012's breakout R&B wunderkind is up for a Centric Award, a Coca Cola Viewers' Choice Award and a Video of the Year Award for his infectious hit off of Kaleidoscope Dream. (Photo: Brad Barket/Getty Images for BET)

Nas - Nas released eight projects via Columbia, including his first, Illmatic, and it's followup, Stillmatic, which included the unforgettable Jay Z dis record "Ether." In 2006, however, he pulled a surprise move on everyone when he signed to Def Jam — where Jay was just named president — and came out with the slaughter, Hip Hop Is Dead and 2012's Life Is Good.(Photo: Noel Vasquez/Getty Images)

77 / 90

Nas — "Daughters" - Nas' ode to parenthood is up for a Centric Award. (Photo: Noel Vasquez/Getty Images)

Charlie Wilson – "My Love Is All I Have" - The BET Awards honoree gets a Centric Award nod.   (Photo: Mark Davis/Getty Images for BET)

78 / 90

Charlie Wilson – "My Love Is All I Have" - The BET Awards honoree gets a Centric Award nod.  (Photo: Mark Davis/Getty Images for BET)

Photo By Photo: Mark Davis/Getty Images for BET

2Face Idibia (Nigeria) - 2Face Idibia once again gets nominated for Best International Act: Africa!(Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

79 / 90

2Face Idibia (Nigeria) - 2Face Idibia once again gets nominated for Best International Act: Africa!(Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images

Toya Delazy - Toya Delazy brings her trademark style to the game and gets a nod for Best International Act: Africa.  (Photo: Sony Music Entertainment South Africa)

80 / 90

Toya Delazy - Toya Delazy brings her trademark style to the game and gets a nod for Best International Act: Africa. (Photo: Sony Music Entertainment South Africa)

Photo By Photo: Sony Music Entertainment South Africa

ADVERTISEMENT
Donald (South Africa) - Donald is an undeniably unique artist with a bold presence in the game. Congrats on the nod for Best International Act: Africa.(Photo: D Exclusive/Universal Music)

81 / 90

Donald (South Africa) - Donald is an undeniably unique artist with a bold presence in the game. Congrats on the nod for Best International Act: Africa.(Photo: D Exclusive/Universal Music)

Photo By Photo: D Exclusive/Universal Music

2. Ice Prince (Nigeria) - Since 2004, Ice Prince has been putting it down for Nigeria with his unique blend of rap and Afrobeat, one of Nigeria's original musical genres. In 2012, he landed a BET Award in the International Act (Africa) category, thus adding to his cross-continental appeal. (Photo: Alexandra Wyman/Getty Images For BET)

82 / 90

Ice Prince (Nigeria) - Can the Ice Prince manage to frost his cake with a Best International Act: Africa award? (Photo: Alexandra Wyman/Getty Images For BET)

R2Bees (Ghana) - Will the R2Bees be receiving the Best International Act: Africa?  (Photo: R2Bees Entertainment)

83 / 90

R2Bees (Ghana) - Will the R2Bees be receiving the Best International Act: Africa? (Photo: R2Bees Entertainment)

Photo By Photo: R2Bees Entertainment

Radio and Weasel (Uganda) - This musical duo hold it down for their part of the planet! Find out if they will win the Best International Act: Africa.  (Photos: Michelly Rall/Getty Images)

84 / 90

Radio and Weasel (Uganda) - This musical duo hold it down for their part of the planet! Find out if they will win the Best International Act: Africa. (Photos: Michelly Rall/Getty Images)

Marsha Ambrosius @MarshaAmbrosius - Tweet: "I had a lot of lovely moments in LA Grammy weekend!!! I will say that I was SUPER HYPE performing with @robertglasper & Co. at The Roxy"Marsha Ambrosius recounts her happiest moments during Grammy weekend for her fans. (Photo: Mike Coppola/Getty Images for Heineken)

85 / 90

Marsha Ambrosius - Singer Marsha Ambrosius is still an international R&B powerhouse. Will she win the award for Best International Act: UK? (Photo: Mike Coppola/Getty Images for Heineken)

Photo By Photo: Mike Coppola/Getty Images for Heineken

ADVERTISEMENT
Estelle - Estelle is more than just a singer — she's gotten more involved with acting and is an amazing all-around artist. Find out if she will win for Best International Act: UK. (Photo: Steve Mack/Getty Images)

86 / 90

Estelle - Estelle is more than just a singer — she's gotten more involved with acting and is an amazing all-around artist. Find out if she will win for Best International Act: UK. (Photo: Steve Mack/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Steve Mack/Getty Images

Labrinth - Will Labrinth find his way to winning an award for Best International Act: UK? (Photo: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

87 / 90

Labrinth - Will Labrinth find his way to winning an award for Best International Act: UK? (Photo: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Rita Ora - Rita Ora has made a huge splash since releasing her debut album! Is she ready for a Best International Act: UK award? (Photo: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for Burberry)

88 / 90

Rita Ora - Rita Ora has made a huge splash since releasing her debut album! Is she ready for a Best International Act: UK award? (Photo: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for Burberry)

Photo By Photo: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for Burberry

Best International Act: UK – Emeli Sandé - This British-born singer wrote hits for a number of top recording artists, including Rihanna and Alicia Keys, before launching her solo career. This is her first BET Awards win.  (Photo: Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)

89 / 90

Emeli Sandé - Singer Emeli Sandé's current crossover success with the song "Next to Me" is indicative of her undeniable artistry — and why she has received a nod for Best International Act: UK. (Photo: Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images)

Wiley - The grime rapper strikes again! But will it warrant him winning an award for Best International Act: UK? (Photo: Warner Music Group)

90 / 90

Wiley - The grime rapper strikes again! But will it warrant him winning an award for Best International Act: UK? (Photo: Warner Music Group)

Photo By Photo: Warner Music Group