From his days as a child star to penning hits for others to taking center stage with his own sound, Thomas’s journey has been years in the making. 

Now, with a “BET Award” for Best New Artist in hand and a chart-climbing album, “Mutt” under his belt, he’s no longer the industry’s best-kept secret. 

The BET Awards 2025 brought back a dose of nostalgia with a special 106 & Park Hall of Fame countdown. Former hosts, including fan-favorite Keshia Chanté, Terrence J, Free, Big Tigger, and Julissa Bermudez, reunited to revisit some of the most iconic videos and artists that shaped an era. The tribute celebrated the legacy of the beloved music countdown show with throwback performances from Mr 106 & Park himself, Bow Wow, Ashanti, Jim Jones, Keyshia Cole, T.I., B2K, and more surprise guests who helped define a generation of BET viewers.

BET Awards 2025 Ultimate Icon Mariah Carey delivered a show-stopping performance with help from DJ D-Nice spinning some of her hits: “Dreamlover,” “Honey, “Obsessed,” “Heartbreaker,” and more.

With a full band and numerous male dancers, the musical icon debuted a live rendition of her new single, “Type Dangerous,” featuring her rumored boyfriend, Anderson .Paak. She was also joined by rapper Rakim, whose song “Eric B. Is President” is interpolated on the record. 

Lil Wayne returned to the BET Awards stage, celebrating his newest album, “Tha Carter 6.” Surrounded by a gospel choir, the emcee entered the stage and performed “Welcome to Tha Carter” from the latest project, before delivering the classic hit, “A Milli.”

Craig Robinson, Babyface, Ludacris, Jennifer Hudson, Tank, T-Pain, and more delivered a medley of hits honoring Ultimate Icon Jamie Foxx at the BET Awards 2025, presented by Walmart and musical icon Stevie Wonder.

RELATED: BET Awards 2025: The Complete List of Winners

GloRilla kicked things off with “Let Her Cook,” stepping into a full-blown kitchen set alongside a sea of dancers. 

Rocking a white suit with a cheeky surprise in the back, the Memphis native later threw on a plush white fur and took a seat at the piano for a special performance, “Typa,” featuring a guest appearance from Keyshia Cole. 

Kendrick took a break from his GNX Tour to accept “Album of the Year” instantly making one of the night’s biggest moments. With his Grand National Tour in full swing and the cultural waves from his post-beef dominance still rippling, his presence felt like a victory lap in real time. 

Doechii took home Best Female Hip Hop Artist, a well-earned honor following the release of her critically acclaimed debut album Alligator Bites Never Heal.

While accepting her award at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, the Florida native shifted focus to the growing tension outside, where the National Guard had been deployed amid citywide protests. Her words, met with resounding applause, made clear: Doechii’s voice extends far beyond the booth.

After accepting his Ultimate Icon Award, Snoop Dogg reminded everyone exactly why he earned the title.

The West Coast legend rolled through a medley of classics—“Unsung Heroes,” “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” “Nuthin’ But a G Thang,” and “The Next Episode”—bringing decades of hits back to life.

The energy hit a new high when Charlie Wilson joined him for soulful renditions of “Beautiful” and “Outstanding,” before Warren G and Kurupt stepped in for a crowd-hyping closeout with “Ain’t No Fun (If the Homies Can’t Have None).”

The gospel trailblazer closed out the night with a powerful medley of hits, including “Silver and Gold,” “I Smile,” and “Do It Again,” backed by a dynamic choir. The spirit only grew stronger when he was joined by Tamar Braxton, Jamal Roberts, and Muni Long for a soulful rendition of “Melodies From Heaven.” And just when it felt like the night couldn’t soar any higher, Salt hit the stage to help deliver a raucous, crowd-moving performance of “Stomp.”