Usher was the toast of the 2024 BET Awards, but the R&B hitmaker’s big moment was marred by technical issues during Sunday night’s live broadcast.
The singer, songwriter and producer received BET’s Lifetime Achievement Award after being honored with a tribute performance by Childish Gambino, Keke Palmer, Summer Walker, Coco Jones, Marsha Ambrosius, Chlöe, Tinashe, Teyana Taylor, Victoria Monét and Latto.
During his acceptance speech, part of Usher’s comments were muted. Viewers at home expressed outrage, with some accusing BET of censoring the “Nice & Slow” singer for using profanity.
A day after the awards, BET issued an apology and said the problems were caused by an “audio malfunction.”
“Celebrating global icon Usher on our stage with a star-studded tribute and having him accept his award with a heartfelt speech was an honor. Due to an audio malfunction during the live telecast, portions of his speech were inadvertently muted,” the network said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. “We extend our sincere apologies to Usher as we couldn’t be more grateful for his participation in Culture’s Biggest Night. Fans can catch his full uninterrupted speech across BET platforms and tonight’s encore on BET.”
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The “Yeah!” artist was recognized for three decades of contributions to the entertainment industry.
After being presented with his award by industry icons Babyface and L.A. Reid, Usher stood next to some of his collaborators, including Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, Jermaine Dupri, and he thanked everyone he’s worked with along the way.
“It definitely has not been easy, but it has been worth it,” he said while fighting back tears.
The singer went on to talk about being a father and said it was painful being abandoned by his own dad.
“He made a lot of choices that probably hurt and helped me,” Usher said.
The singer then praised his mother, who watched from the audience, and he named several industry figures who were instrumental in his career.
“We gotta be willing to forgive. We gotta be willing to be open. I’m telling you, you’re standing before a man who had to forgive a man who never showed up, ever, and look at what I made with it,” he said. “Look at what I was able to usher in. That’s what’s real and that’s what makes us human.”
Usher’s full speech is below:
