African Stars Talk about Their Favorite Artists and Upcoming Projects at BET Awards 2024

The blue carpet of the 23rd BET Awards in Los Angeles was a dazzling showcase of Black talent, style, and culture.

Music superstars like Tyla, Ayra Starr, Burna Boy, and Tems, led the African contingent going into the awards ceremony this year.

This highly anticipated event drew some of the most exciting figures from across the continent, creating an unforgettable demonstration of excellence.

From gorgeous outfits to exciting interviews, this year’s event celebrated the diverse contributions of Africans in entertainment.

Here’s what African stars wore to the event and what they have to say about music on the continent.

Michael Blackson

Ghanaian actor and comedian Michael Blackson lit up the blue carpet with a glittering overcoat as he lists his top five African artists. He cites Davido, Burna Boy, and Wizkid in his Top 3. “I’m [also] going with a guy that doesn’t get a lot of props, but my playlist has more of his songs than anybody else,” he says to OkayAfrica, referring to Kizz Daniel. He then mentions Asake and Diamond Platnumz as two other acts on his list.

Tyla

South African songstress Tyla, who clinched the awards for Best New Artist and Best New International Act, out of her four nominations, captivated attendees in a black dress with its hem adorned with fascinating tiger stripes, an ode to her growing fanbase, tigers.

Emerson Bockarie

Sierra Leonean performer Emerson Bockarie tells OkayAfrica that he’s proud of his fellow African acts. “Nigerians are really doing it,” he says,nodding his head to Asake, Davido, and Wizkid. “Burna Boy is a beast. Asake is doing his thing… Sierra Leone has also played an immense role when it comes to Afrobeats,” he adds.

Focalistic

South African rapper Focalistic, nominated for Best International Act alongside Asake, Tyla, and Ayra Starr, made a bold statement in a striking red outfit, showing everyone he was there to make an outstanding impression.

Akon and Amirror

Akon showed up with his wife, singer, Tomeka “Amirror” Thiam, promising new albums, new artists, and a lot of exciting new music videos shot in his home country Senegal.

Responding to a question about whether the BET should create an African music category, Akon says, “If anyone should have an African music category, it’s BET.”