Rap megastar Kanye West has made a rare public appearance, performing at the BET Awards last night (June 27th).
The BET Awards celebrate the finest in black American music. Returning for an all star ceremony last night (June 28th) the awards were dominated by live performances, with Kanye West making his televised comeback.
Appearing at the MTV Video Awards last year, Kanye West stormed the stage to protest at Taylor Swift being given a trophy. The public outcry was overwhelming, with even Barack Obama getting in on the act.
Since then, Kanye West has shied away from the limelight. However the star broke cover to perform at the BET Awards, bringing a typically over the top sense of theatrics to the televised ceremony.
Storming through his single 'Power' the rapper was on eye catching form. Elsewhere, Prince was given a lifetime achievement award, with the iconic singer accepting the trophy was characteristic grace.
Fallen pop idol Michael Jackson was given a musical salute, one year on from his death. Controversial singer Chris Brown led the tributes, performing a medley of some of Jackson's most memorable hits.
It was a spectacular return for the singer, who admitted beating his girlfriend Rihanna last year. Storming through the routine, Chris Brown included all of Michael Jackson's signature moves including the moonwalk.
Breaking down into tears, the singer has to appeal to the crowd to help him finish the short medley.
Other performers on the night included Eminem, who played his single 'Not Afraid'. The rapper made a surprise appearance later on, guest starring on B.o.B’s recently released Airplanes remix.
Other winners included Jay-Z, who scooped 'Best Collaboration', and Dizzee Rascal who won 'Best International Act'.
FULL WINNERS BELOW
Best Female R&B Artist: Alicia Keys
Best Male R&B Artist: Trey Songz
Best Female Hip Hop Artist: Nicki Minaj
Best Male Hip Hop Artist: Drake
Best New Artist: Nicki Minaj
Best Gospel: Marvin Sapp
Best Group: Young Money
Best Collaboration: Jay-Z and Alicia Keys – “Empire State of Mind”
Video of the Year: Beyonce Knowles (featuring Lady GaGa) – “Video Phone”
Best Actress: Mo’Nique
Best Actor: Idris Elba
Best Movie: “Precious: Based on the Novel PUSH by Sapphire”
Youngstars Award: Keke Palmer
Subway Sportswoman of the Year: Serena Williams
Subway Sportsman of the Year: LeBron James
Viewer’s Choice: Rihanna (featuring Young Jeezy) – “Hard”
Best International Act: Dizzee Rascal (U.K.)
Centric Award: Monica
Fandemonium Award: Chris Brown