BET HIP HOP AWARDS 2007
celebrated the universal appeal of hip hop at Atlanta’s Civic Center on Saturday, October 13. Hosted by actor/comedian Katt Williams.  Kanye West kicked off the night performing two hits from his new album Graduation, “Can’t Tell Me Nothing” and “Good Life,” which immediately brought the audience to their feet. Crowd favorite Lil’ Wayne world premiered a new song, the fiery “Gossip,” which had fans mesmerized, and Nelly didn’t hold anything back for his world premiere of “Go Lil Mama,” bringing out an entire female drumline to accompany his dancers.

Hurricane Chris represented Louisiana with his catchy and entertaining performance of “Ay Bay Bay”, and was later joined by fellow Louisiana rep Lil Boosie performing “Wipe Me Down.” Common showed off his smooth lyrical prowess with “Drivin’ Me Wild,” while Playaz Circle featuring Lil’ Wayne and surprise guest Ludacris (who wrote his verse especially for this performance) brought “Duffle Bag Boy” to the stage. Though T.I. was absent, “Hurt” were Wyclef Jean, DJ Drama, Alfamega and Busta Rhymes held him down, performing a special set, including an ode to free speech and T.I.’s “Hurt.” Rounding out the night was Soulja Boy, whose “Crank That” performance featured Superman capes and the wildly popular dance – with countless audience members dancing along with him.

In addition to its sizzling performances, the BET HIP HOP AWARDS 2007 was, in essence, an extension of BET News’ recent special HIP HOP VS. AMERICA, offering insights into the state of hip hop today. The show featured appearances by David Banner, MC Lyte and Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, who shared the reasons why they love hip hop. Katt Williams, host for the second year in a row, once again delivered with hilarious and smart commentary, while the influential Dr. Cornel West presented the “I Am Hip Hop” Icon Award to living hip hop legend KRS-One. Also participating in the BET HIP HOP AWARDS 2007 were two of the young men of the Jena 6, Carwin Jones and Bryant Purvis, who presented the Video of the Year award and thanked the hip hop community for its support.