BET Hip-Hop Awards 2009: Show

This year’s BET Hip-Hop Awards proved drama free. Instead of being marred by controversy as in past years, music took the spotlight at Saturday’s fourth annual show in Atlanta.

Highlights included performances from Young Jeezy with special guest Jay-Z (“Real As It Gets”), Snoop Dogg and The-Dream (“Gangsta Luv”), Wale and Gucci Mane (“Pretty Girls”), Mario, Sean Garrett, and Gucci Mane (“Break Up”), Soulja Boy, OJ Da Juiceman, Gucci, and Shawty Lo (“Gucci Bandana”), Fabolous and The-Dream (“Throw It in the Bag”), and a reunited Goodie Mob, who closed the show with “Cell Therapy” and “Get Rich to This.”

T.I.’s absence was felt as Tiny accepted two awards on his behalf, including Album of the Year for Paper Trail. “Although I’m not there with you all, I’m there in spirit,” Tip’s other half read. “My road to redemption is almost over. … Thanks for the support.”

Jay-Z took home the MVP of the Year trophy, while Drake picked up Rookie of the Year honors. The late DJ AM won for DJ of the Year and Busta Rhymes accepted on his behalf. Young Jeezy and Chuck D presented Ice Cube with the I Am Hip-Hop icon award.

The BET Hip-Hop Awards 2009 will air on Tuesday, October 27, at 8 p.m.