Kendrick Lamar and Drake faced off in one of the most anticipated categories at this year’s BET Awards — Album of the Year. Drake was nominated for $OME $EXY $ONGS 4 U, his collaborative project with PartyNextDoor, while Kendrick received a nod for GNX, one of 2024’s most acclaimed albums.
From the start, GNX seemed destined to take home the win. Widely regarded as one of the standout releases of the year, the album has demonstrated remarkable staying power both commercially and critically. Its momentum continues to build, positioning it as an early frontrunner for the 2026 Grammy Awards.
Perhaps the night’s most memorable moment was Kendrick Lamar himself taking the stage to accept the award. The rapper has not made frequent appearances at the BET Awards in recent years, making his presence all the more meaningful. During his speech, he expressed gratitude to BET for its consistent support of hip hop culture, a sentiment that resonated with the crowd.
In addition to thanking BET, Kendrick used the spotlight to promote his Grand National Tour with SZA — currently one of the biggest tours in hip hop history. Encouraging fans to come out and support the shows, he seamlessly tied the moment of celebration to the ongoing movement of live music.
SZA was also in attendance, adding to the star power of the evening. Her presence, along with that of many other high-profile artists, underscored the significance of this year’s event. With the BET Awards celebrating its 25th anniversary, the energy in the room reflected the milestone.
As the night unfolded, the event was running at a deliberate pace, with only a handful of awards handed out three hours in. Still, the atmosphere remained electric, with fans and viewers eager to see what surprises were yet to come.
For Kendrick Lamar, the Album of the Year win not only cements the legacy of GNX, but also serves as a reminder of his enduring influence in the music world — a presence that continues to command the spotlight.
