BET Awards: Chris Brown Breaks Down at Jackson Tribute; Prince Honored; Nicki Minaj Smacks Lil Kim

Nothing has gone right in Chris Brown’s life. His idol is dead, his ex-girl is bigger and more successful than ever, his fan base eroded, the media turned him into an animal and his pockets have shriveled up. All this doubtlessly contributed to Brown’s brilliant tribute to Michael Jackson that was cut short when he broke down sobbing while trying to sing one of MJ’s biggest hits, “Man in the Mirror.”

Although there were many exciting moments during the 10th annual BET Awards in Los Angeles, fellow stars say Chris Brown topped a night filled with comebacks, a rich tribute to living legend Prince and a not-so-subtle jab from two-time winner Nicki Minaj at Lil Kim.

Other highlights: Good to see T.I. back in action. The “King of the South” rapper seemed to be releasing a lot of pent up energy in his first TV performance since being released from prison for felony gun charges. He rapped with machine-gun quickness and ferocity and brought back the swag in a way only he can bring.

Alicia Keys looked good with her very pregnant self wrapped in a purple dress and spitting out consecutive No. 1 hits. But trying to maneuver onstage in a tiny purple skirt was a curious choice. Keyshia Cole also came strong in her brief appearance onstage with Eminem.

It was a good moment when Nicki Minaj, looking as eccentric as ever, won the Female Hip Hop Artist of the Year award. She did not thank Lil Kim but other females she looked up to like Jada Pinkett Smith and Queen Latifah. And she left the stage by taking a not-so-subtle swipe at Lil Kim for hating on her in well-publicized interviews.

The tribute to Prince was sort of uncomfortable and insufficient, but Janelle Monae, Alicia Keys and Patti LaBelle saved the tribute to one of the most talented, versatile and accomplished musicians this country has ever seen.

Was it just me or did Eminem look like an old man? Also sad was the laughter at Jermaine Jackson when he took the stage to commence the tribute to his late, great brother. Can someone please consult with him on a hairdo to replace that oil slick? Please??

Monica looked like she emerged from the bat cave with those black propellers hitched on her shoulders. Not a good look. Her voice, however, can never be denied.

Queen Latifah was an entertaining host, despite some very questionable wardrobe changes. She got the greatest roar when she emerged with the outfit she started her career with, which was well-deserved. –terry shropshire