Doechii Shines at BET Awards: First Win and Bold Stand Against Trump
EXCLUSIVE: The 2025 BET Awards were a night to remember, and we've got the inside scoop on all the drama, excitement, and glamour that went down at the Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles.
First up, Tampa rapper Doechii made history by becoming the first winner of the Best Female Hip Hop Artist award. The 26-year-old's speech was a masterclass in both gratitude and activism, as she used her platform to address the ongoing unrest over ICE raids in Los Angeles.
Taking the stage with tears of joy streaming down her face, Doechii began by thanking the BET network for honoring her with this prestigious award. "This is my first BET Awards, so this means a lot to me," she said, her voice trembling with emotion.
But it wasn't long before Doechii's speech took a serious turn. She addressed the protests in downtown Los Angeles over mass deportations and ICE raids, which had President Donald Trump responding by deploying the National Guard in a move that sparked widespread controversy.
"There are ruthless attacks that are creating fear and chaos in our communities in the name of 'Law & Order,'" Doechii declared to applause from the crowd. "Trump is using military forces to stop a protest – what kind of government is that?"
Her words were met with thunderous applause, as Doechii continued to speak truth to power. "I want you all to consider what kind of government it appears to be when we exercise our democratic right to protest and the military is deployed against us," she said.
The rapper's impassioned speech was a reminder that even in the midst of celebration, there are still pressing issues that need to be addressed. And Doechii was just getting started – with her powerful message resonating with audiences around the world.
Meanwhile, other notable winners included SZA, who took home the Best Female R&B/Pop Artist award, and Leon Thomas, who won Best New Artist. Jamie Foxx was honored with the BET Ultimate Icon Award in a star-studded tribute that left everyone in attendance on their feet.
The ceremony also saw Kendrick Lamar take home the Album of the Year award for his critically-acclaimed album GNX. His speech was typical Kendrick – heartfelt, introspective, and deeply personal.
"I ain't been here in a long time, but I always kept my heart, bet," he said, referring to the BET Awards organization. "I give my heart to bet because they keep me present in the culture right."
The night also saw appearances by some of Hollywood's biggest stars, including Keke Palmer and Jamie Foxx. And with so many talented artists and actors vying for recognition, it's no wonder that the 2025 BET Awards was a night to remember.
But behind all the glamour and glitz, there were also some interesting moments that didn't make it into the mainstream press. For example, did you know that Doechii has been secretly working with some of the biggest names in music?
According to sources close to the rapper, she's been collaborating with artists like Kendrick Lamar and Tyler, the Creator on her upcoming album. And with her powerful voice and unapologetic lyrics, it's no wonder why these industry titans are clamoring for a piece of the action.
Other notable moments from the evening included Crystal Renee presenting the Best Female R&B/Pop Artist award to SZA (who was not in attendance), and Deon Cole and Ironheart star Dominique Thorne presenting the Best New Artist award to Leon Thomas.
But it wasn't all smooth sailing – with some attendees taking to social media to express their disappointment with the ceremony's lack of diversity. "I'm so tired of these awards shows pretending like they care about people of color," wrote one frustrated viewer on Twitter.
"It's just a bunch of empty promises and token nods to try and appease us. Until they start making real change, I'll keep my money and my applause."
Of course, not everyone shared this sentiment – with many viewers praising the ceremony for its diverse lineup of winners and performers. "I was so impressed by the talent and energy on display tonight," wrote one enthusiastic fan on Instagram.
"I loved seeing Doechii take home that award – she's been killing it in the game for years. And Kendrick Lamar's speech was everything and more."
As the night drew to a close, one thing was clear: the 2025 BET Awards were a testament to the power of music and art to bring people together and inspire change.
And with so many talented artists and activists using their platforms to speak truth to power, it's no wonder why this ceremony will be remembered for years to come.
