Hip-hop has had a rocky relationship with award shows in previous years, with fans having more than a few gripes regarding the winners of certain categories and, of course, inevitable snubs.
This year’s iHeart Radio Show was hosted by hip-hop veteran LL Cool J with a number of performances from artists including Megan Thee Stallion, John Legend and more. With so many awards and performances, OGM took the opportunity to compile all of the iHeart Radio Awards moments hip-hop/R&B fans would like to see, whether they agree with the results or not.
Performances
LL Cool J may be years removed from his status at top of the rap game, but he proved his energy is still unmatched with an electrifying performance on stage. His medley of “Ahh,” “Let’s Get It III,” “Mr. Goodbar,” “Phenomenon,” “Rock The Bells” and “Mama Said Knock You Out” warranted appearances from the Rock The Bells band as well as the infamous Jabbawockeez for an explosive showing.
Unlikely collaborators John Legend and Charlie Puth sat on opposite sides of a double-sided piano as they traded off covering one another’s biggest hits. Revealing their songwriting history halfway through the performances, the duet belted renditions of a few singles including Charlie’s latest hit “Light Switch.”
Fans of Megan Thee Stallion were treated to a bright red stage as the “WAP” artist performed her new single “Sweetest Pie” featuring fellow attendee Dua Lipa. One of the most meme-worthy moments of the night was Meg using her elite twerking skills to play the piano.
International superstar Jennifer Lopez was in attendance to claim her well-deserved Icon Award. In her classic JLo fashion, the legendary singer brought the full experience with talented backup dancers and incredible choreography to commemorate her achievement.
Male Artist of the Year
WINNER: Lil Nas X
Drake
Ed Sheeran
Justin Bieber
The Weeknd
Best Duo/Group of the Year
WINNER: Silk Sonic
AJR
BTS
Maroon 5
Dan + Shay
Best Collaboration
WINNER: “Stay” – The Kid LAROI feat. Justin Bieber
“Best Friend” – Saweetie feat. Doja Cat
“If I Didn’t Love You” – Jason Aldean & Carrie Underwood
“Kiss Me More” – Doja Cat feat. SZA
“Peaches” – Justin Bieber feat. Daniel Caesar
Hip-Hop Song of the Year
WINNER: “What You Know Bout Love” – Pop Smoke
“Way 2 Sexy” – Drake feat. Young Thug & Future
“Essence” – Wizkid feat. Tems
“UP” – Cardi B
“Time Today” – Moneybagg Yo
Hip-Hop Artist of the Year
WINNER: Drake
Lil Baby
Moneybagg Yo
Megan Thee Stallion
Pop Smoke
Best New Hip-Hop Artist
WINNER: Yung Bleu
BIA
Coi Leray
Lil Tjay
Pooh Shiesty
Hip-Hop Album of the Year
WINNER: The Off-Season – J. Cole
R&B Song of the Year
WINNER: “Leave the Door Open” – Silk Sonic
“Damage” – H.E.R.
“Good Days” – SZA
“Heartbreak Anniversary” – Giveon
“Pick Up Your Feelings” – Jazmine Sullivan
R&B Artist of the Year
WINNER: Jazmine Sullivan
Giveon
H.E.R.
Tank
Silk Sonic
Best New R&B Artist
WINNER: Giveon
Chlöe
Tone Stith
Vedo
VanJess
Icon Award
WINNER: Jennifer Lopez
