This year’s Soul Train Awards successfully merged the old school with a thriving new school.
On Sunday, the 2020 Soul Train Awards presented by BET showcased the magic of music. Tichina Arnold and Tisha Campbell hosted the awards again and this made for an evening filled with laughter. The duo presented stars, performers, and others on a small stage outfitted with live bands and it didn’t hurt that there was a tiny live audience.
In the age of COVID-19, rather than all the bells and whistles that typically are a part of awards season, BET opted for performances by soul singers across generations. The vocals of each performer were the highlight of the evening. Stars like Brandy, Jazmine Sullivan, Snoh Aalegra, Ella Mai and Lucky Daye took the stage. Charlie Wilson and Smokey Robinson even got a chance to prove that their age is merely a number.
Below we’re sharing our favorite moments from the 2020 Soul Train Awards. Keep scrolling to find out all of the winners.
Brandy Performs Deep Cuts Off of B7
This year Brandy dropped B7, a soulful album that represents how she’s evolved throughout her career. Last night she served vocal realness when she shared two singles from the well-received album.
Jazmine Sullivan Shares Her New Singles “Lost Ones” & “Pick Up Your Feelings”
Jazmine Sullivan blessed us during quarantine with her latest singles “Lost Ones” and “Pick Up Your Feelings.” Both tracks are reflective and speak to the core of her artistry, it’s not new for her to unveil her innermost self through her songwriting. Her vocal range was on display during her stunning social distanced set.
Soul Cypher Featuring PJ Morton, Stokely, Shanice and Chanté Moore
The awards successfully pivoted over to a Soul Cypher equipped with breathtaking vocals by elite singers Chanté Moore, Stokely, Shanice, and PJ Morton. This was perhaps one of the most enjoyable moments of the evening. The cypher was based on Erykah Badu and Common’s “Love Of My Life.”
H.E.R. Accepting Best R&B/Soul Female Artist Award
“R&B is not dead, it’s in everything. R&B is rhythm and blues,” H.E.R. shared during her acceptance speech. This comment was a hit at commentators online who throughout the year have alleged that R&B isn’t thriving. She also shared she loved being at the ceremony. “This stage is for us. This stage represents us. I think it’s very important to not forget where we came from.”
Babyface & Lucky Daye’s First Live Performance of “Shoulda”
“Shoulda” is the type of song that perfectly mixes old school R&B with the thriving new school sound. During this performance, Lucky Daye and BabyFace are a magical pair. It’s an enjoyable experience especially since BabyFace gets a moment to showcase his award-winning voice that’s captivated and inspired generations.
Smokey Robinson & Charlie Wilson Perform “All of My Love”
This part of the evening was a treat. Both Smokey Robinson and Charlie Wilson got in their bags and showed us why they are well regarded in the industry. The duo’s unique sounds were intact and they brought their A-game to the stage.
Monica Wins Lady of Soul Award, Shares Medley of Greatest Hits
After winning the Lady of Soul Award, Monica performed a few of her biggest songs. Those singles included “Everything To Me,” “Before You Walk Out My Life,” “Angel Of Mine,” and “Don’t Take It Personal.” This set by Monica is an example of why she can’t be ignored when we think about R&B and it’s relevance currently.
Winners
Best New Artist – Snoh Aalegra
Soul Train Certified Award –Brandy
Best R&B/Soul Male Artist – Chris Brown
Best R&B/Soul Female Artist – H.E.R.
Video of the Year – Beyoncé, Blue Ivy, Saint Jhn & Wizkid “Brown Skin Girl”
Best Gospel/Inspirational Award – Kirk Franklin
Album of the Year – Summer Walker “Over It”
Rhythm & Bars Award – Megan thee Stallion “Savage”
Song of the Year – Chris Brown & Young Thug “Go Crazy”
The Ashford & Simpson Songwriter’s Award – “I Can’t Breathe,” Written by H.E.R.
Best Dance Performance – Chris Brown & Young Thug “Go Crazy”
Best Collaboration Performance – Chris Brown & Young Thug “Go Crazy”