Young Jeezy ignited the stage with a fiery performance of his new single “F.A.M.E.,” bringing out his fellow ATLien, who also performed his just-released track “I’m Flexin’” during the opening number. The sixth annual event, which was taped at the Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center to air at a later date, featured performances from 2011’s breakout stars and some familiar faces from the past.
The embattled DMX staged a comeback with “Get at Me Dog,” “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” and “Party Up (Up in Here)” with his fellow Ruff Ryder Swizz Beatz. Lupe Fiasco was joined by Erykah Badu for the politically charged “Words I Never Said.” Big Sean and Roscoe Dash poured out a little “Marvin & Chardonnay” and El DeBarge smoothed it out with Wale and Rick Ross on “That Way.” Nine-time nominee Wiz Khalifa repped for his team with “Taylor Gang” and Heavy D closed out the show, taking it back with some help from Tyrese. LL Cool J was presented with the “I Am Hip-Hop Icon” Award by Nelly.
Despite his record-breaking 18 nominations, Lil Wayne and his Young Money crew were absent.
