If I could describe the 2009 Bet Hip Hop Awards in one word I would say Gucci. Rapper, Gucci Mane made several appearances on tonight’s Hip Hop Awards. I must say tonight was his time to shine. Even Soulja Boy’s performance was centered around Gucci; both the fashion label and the rapper. I would have to say that BET was very successful at putting the spotlight on Atlanta’

s hip hop and rap artists. With Gucci Mane, Soulja Boy and The Dream making at least 2 appearances on stage for performances, it was clear where the award show was hosted.

It was very entertaining to see Snoop Dogg back on stage in his Parental Advisory jeans. And who knew Kid and Play would make an appearance doing their famous dance on stage together to present an award. Goodie Mob gave us all a taste of what Hip Hop in Atlanta really is from their lyrical flow on to their classic singles and their unique fashion sense. Who can forget Jay-Z and Jeezy’s performance? They make a great collaboration.

Mike Epps did an extraordinary job as the host. Unlike some other comedians who host an award show, he was able to entertain, keep the audiences interest and bring live to the show in between award presentations and performances. Nice choice of host this year BET!

Ice Cube was the perfect honoree of the 2009 Bet Hip Hop Awards’ I Am Hip Hop Award. Ice Cube’

s influence on Hip Hop music as a rapper, accomplishments in the community, success as a actor and in his own film business make for all the reasons why he deserved this award.

Missy Elliot and Fatima Robinson, who both coincidentally worked close Aaliyah, also deserved their honors for their influence in the Hip Hop culture. These women especially made an impact by being a couple of the very few success stories for women in this genre of music. Missy is the only woman in Hip Hop to have 6 platinum albums. Her creativity is displayed in her different sense of music and the expression of her songs in her distinct videos. Fatima is one of the best choreographers Hip Hop has known. She creatively put together the most entertaining and trendsetting dances seen in the videos and concerts in artists such as Brandy, Busta Rhymes, Aaliyah, Michael Jackson, Mary J. Blige, R. Kelly, Prince, OutKast and more.g others.

The BET Hip Hop Awards always seems to surprise it’

s audience with something completely different and new each year. Keep a close watch, you may never know what to expect in the upcoming years.

The ATL has been getting it in, these past few days for video shoot… I got the chance to go on the set of Mikes Epps new video shoot “Ain’t Chu You”… I didn’t even know he rapped…. I would have taken more pictures but this hater photographer you already know who they are asked them to make me leave … People stop hating just step up yo game… Shout out to my homie Nitti and Dro for all the love…

I was told by my sources that Dro and his ex Boo Shavon might be back-together leave her Tits alone you in the public’s eye …. LOL

Mike Epps hosted the 1st annual Tupac Birthday All-Star Benefit Concert at The Tupac Amaru Shakur Center for the Arts in Atlanta to celebrate what would have been Tupac’s 38th birthday. No where else but the “A” could have honored the great Hip-Hop icon Tupac. Last night at The 1st annual Tupac Birthday All-Star Benefit Concert at The Tupac Amaru Shakur Center for the Arts you definitely could feel the love thanks to Ms. Afeni Shakur and Mike Epps. The unique partnership was created by Epps, who despite juggling a national comedy tour, promotion of the new DVD “Funny Bidness” and two box-office films, “Next Day Air” and “Janky Promoters”, decided to augment his schedule by honoring the late rapper’s birthday with a fund-raising event to support The Tupac Amaru Shakur Center for the Arts and an unforgettable birthday celebration.
“I’m a long-time fan of Pac’s music. It’s always been the soundtrack for overcoming struggle and when my life was in a desolate place it was his messages that helped bring me through,” says Epps. “I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for his inspiration. It’s an honor for me to stand alongside his mother, Afeni Shakur in celebrating such a personal moment in her son’s history.”

There were presentations from DeKalb CEO’s office – a proclamation for Mike Epps and a painting given by 13 year actor & rapper Lil’ Dude. Co-hosted by M1 of Dead Prez, the stage held the presence of: Lil’ Scrappy, Young LA, Playaz Circle, 8Ball & MJG, Mika Means & Bun B.
“This concert celebration is an expression of my gratitude for all of Tupac’s fans for continuing to support and love my son. Pac’s life was a gift from God, “says Afeni Shakur. “We continue to carry on Pac’s legacy via his art and foundation.”

Thanks to Dee Dee M. Cocheta & Crystal B. of A.B.C. Publicity for making sure I got the shots I needed.