When I heard the words “Tracia you will serve as red carpet host at the Billboard Awards,” I was beside myself with excitement and enthusiasm. I immediately began to make plans for my trip from L.A. to Vegas.
I arrived the night before with so much excitement that I couldn’t sleep. After managing to get approximately two hours of sleep, I awoke to get ready for my Billboard Awards debut on the red carpet. First, my glam squad got my hair, makeup and wardrobe on “fleek” then I was off to the T-Mobile area and onto the red carpet. As I watched celebrities arrive, I had to pinch myself to see if it was for real.
My five best moments from the Billboard Awards red carpet:
It was an astounding moment for me when I saw the great legend Stevie Wonder. He is one of the best of all times. His smile lit up the red carpet. It was great seeing him.
I interviewed the Grammy Award-winning gospel singer Marvin Sapp, he was so amazing as he spoke to me about his music and the artists that he likes. I asked him who is his favorite artists and he replied, “my favorite is Kendrick Lamar.” I love Kendrick too. He was dressed to the nines; it was a great interview.
One of my favorite artists walked right in front of me … the fabulous Rihanna! She recently tied Michael Jackson’s record for most No. 1 hits. She walked the carpet in a two-piece nude, chic capris outfit. She looked hot! The cameras were all over her, calling out her name. So exciting.
The fashion scene was second to none, Billboard co-host Ciara was very fashionable in a long, fitted dress as she worked the red carpet and her co-host, Ludacris, graced the carpet in his dapper tuxedo that fit him like a glove. They both made bold fashion statements. Of course your rolling out host, me, wore a short, sequined dress with black fringe shoes to fit right in. I really enjoyed the fashion scene, it was incredible.
The moment I stepped into the event, the atmosphere set the tone for a remarkable evening. Blue skies and the beautiful city of Vegas were the backdrop of the event. E!, Ellen DeGeneres, rolling out and many others lined the red carpet to interview the nominees and stars of the evening. It was exciting to see the limousines pull up, the fans cheer, and most of all, I got to see and socialize with some of my favorite celebrities. I had a great time covering the Billboard Awards for rolling out magazine!
-tracia j
