As expected and just like past editions of the award, the ‘Best African Act’ presentation was not aired live on TV, in fact the presentation was not included in the award show but held about an hour before; before guests arrived, before the whole world could bask in Mr Zamani’s euphoria.
And many have spoken out in criticism, including the respected DJ Jimmy JATT and Dencia. One can understand the Grammys holding pre-award presentations, because there are over 100 categories, and only key parts can be slotted into the main show, while others are restricted to a one-hour pre-award presentation. But for BET, what’s the point of airing 21 presentations and leaving out just one?
If BET wants to keep Africa in the dark when it comes to awards shows in the US, why not setup a ‘BET Africa Awards’ and reward the continent’s hardworking artistes properly? At least that’s what their sister MTV did with the MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMA) (which has not held since 2010).
The ‘Best African Act’ award was included for the first time in 2011 and was surprisingly shared between two artistes – D’banj and 2face Idibia. Awards do get shared but when
Sarkodie and Wizkid shared it again in 2012, it wasn’t a good look.
So we are happy Ice Prince was the sole recipient of this year’s award and how did he celebrate it? In the modest of ways – the rapper when announced as the winner, got on stage, paid a tribute to the likes of Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Akon and then asked the other nominees – Toya Delazy, Donald, R2Bees, Radio and Weasel (2face was missing) to join him stage to share the moment with him. Selfless act!
But at that same time, I feel Ice Prince committed a very big blunder and the dumbest move in his career so far (this even tops his baby daddy denial thingy in 2012) by wearing a jacket bearing the flag of the United States of America! How could you Mr Zamani? What were you thinking?! Where were your crew members to slap patriotism back into you? You could have very well sang ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ right there on stage! #Fail
This reminds me of the time Sir Shina Peters wore a shirt bearing the USA flag in the video of the theme song for the Nigeria ’99 FIFA World Youth Championship.
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