In a delightful twist ahead of the 2024 BET Awards, hip-hop icons Jermaine Dupri and Durand Bernarr have dropped a hilarious teaser for Usher’s upcoming tribute. The promo, unveiled on June 20, showcases a comedic interaction between the two, setting the stage for what promises to be a spectacular tribute on June 30.
The teaser captures Durand Bernarr auditioning for Jermaine Dupri with a unique take on Usher’s “Good Kisser.” Bernarr’s creative liberties with the lyrics leave Dupri baffled, resulting in the humorous line, “I’m not sure those are the lyrics…” The playful exchange not only brings laughs but also heightens anticipation for the tribute.
Usher is set to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s BET Awards, a fitting honor for an artist who has continually redefined R&B. BET announced this milestone on Instagram on May 30, stating, “We got a confession. U-S-H-E-R is this year’s LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT HONOREE at the #BETAwards! We’ve watched this icon give us LEGENDARY moments on our stage. Now it’s time for us to return the favor and give him his flowers at #CulturesBiggestNight!”
Following in the footsteps of previous recipients such as Diddy, Busta Rhymes, Queen Latifah, and Mary J. Blige, Usher’s acknowledgment comes as no surprise. He is also vying for four awards at this year’s ceremony, including Album of the Year for “Coming Home,” Best Male R&B/Pop Artist, and Best Collaboration for “Good Good” featuring 21 Savage and Summer Walker.
Moreover, Usher will be honored with the ASCAP Voice of the Culture Award next month, celebrating his influential role in music and culture. The award will be presented during a gathering of the top R&B and soul music songwriters and publishers in Los Angeles on June 27.
Usher’s year has been nothing short of phenomenal. His Super Bowl halftime show broke records, drawing an unprecedented 123.4 million viewers, eclipsing performances by Dr. Dre in 2022 and Rihanna in 2023. Additionally, his 100-show Las Vegas residency was a massive success, and his ninth studio album further cemented his legacy.
With the BET Awards around the corner, the anticipation for Usher’s tribute is palpable. The teaser featuring Jermaine Dupri and Durand Bernarr has set the tone for a night filled with celebration, laughter, and a heartfelt homage to one of R&B’s greatest stars.
