BET Awards moments through the years

A young Christina Aguilera paid homage to her idol Whitney Houston for the network’s first lifetime achievement award during the first BET Awards in 2001.

The first BET Awards were a comeback moment for Whitney Houston, who had begun to unravel in previous years and appeared grateful to be embraced with a lifetime achievement presentation. The pop star’s precocious 8-year-old, Bobbi Kristina, far right, helped present the honor.

Destiny’s Child accepts its award for female group during the first BET Awards in 2001.

The BET Awards is the only place where Michael Jackson and James Brown could have a dance-off, as they did at the 2003 BET Awards.

Jay-Z offered a rendition of his hit single “99 Problems” during the 2004 BET Awards.

Michael Jackson died just three days before the 2009 awards. Sister Janet honored him onstage. Fans counted on the BET Awards to pay homage.

Beyonce’s solo career got a boost on the BET Awards stage. This was her musical segment at the 2009 BET Awards.

Esperanza Spalding at the 2010 BET Awards, when she paid tribute to Prince, who received a lifetime achievement award.

When Chris Brown looked to seek public redemption, he choose the BET Awards stage in 2011.

Before actors Mo’Nique, Kevin Hart and Taraji P. Henson, pictured, made it big, they were stars on this stage. Henson is pictured at the 2011 BET Awards.

Missy Elliott and Pharrell Williams took the stage in a duet at the 2014 BET Awards.

Before actors Mo’Nique, Kevin Hart, pictured, and Taraji P. Henson made it big, they were stars on this stage. Hart is pictured here with actress Kerry Washington at the 2014 BET Awards.