In the early aughts, music lovers all over the country were able to stay up-to-date on their favorite artists and releases thanks to 106 & Park. Now, the legendary program is commemorating its impact in a major way as the 2025 BET Awards will feature a can’t-miss tribute to honor 25 years since the show first launched.
The segment will deliver a massive reunion of 106’s beloved hosts and defining performers. AJ Calloway, Free, Julissa Bermudez, Keshia Chanté, Rocsi Diaz, and Terrence J are set to come together on stage for an extra special celebration of their contributions. Adding onto the nostalgia, the tribute will also include performances from Amerie, B2K, Jim Jones, Mya, T.I., previous host/Mr. 106 & Park, Bow Wow, and more.
This year’s BET Awards are set to air live on Monday, June 9, on BET at 8 pm ET/PT.
NEW YORK – JUNE 18: Rocsi (L) and Terrence J. host BET’s “106 & Park” at BET Studios on June 18, 2009 in New York City.
Johnny Nunez/WireImage
“106 & Park was more than just a music countdown show; it was the heartbeat of Black youth culture and one of the highest-rated BET programs for over a decade,” stated Scott Mills, President and CEO at BET. “From Freestyle Friday to unforgettable live performances, it launched careers, influenced fashion, and became a platform where voices, style, and sound converged. 106 & Park both celebrated and fueled many of the most important musical and culture evolutions that occurred during its two-and-a-half-decade tenure.”
“106 & Park served as a cultural touchstone, embodying the energy, creativity and authenticity of a generation,” stated Connie Orlando, EVP of Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET. “It provided artists a direct connection to their fans, transforming everyday moments into lasting memories. The show’s legacy continues to influence how we engage with music, connect with talent, and celebrate Black creativity. We are thrilled to commemorate 25 years of this iconic series at this year’s BET Awards.”
Following its successful September 2000 premiere, 106 & Park steadily grew into a cultural staple known for its consistent and fresh coverage of Hip-Hop and R&B music videos. The program became a go-to hub for the generation’s hottest artist interviews, premieres, and performances. 106 captured the early days of current legends such as Beyoncé, Rihanna, Chris Brown, 50 Cent, and so many more.
Check out VIBE’s list of timeless moments that made 106 & Park a cultural phenomenon here.
Rocsi, Beyonce and Terrence J during Beyonce Knowles Visits BET’s 106 & Park – December 4, 2006 at BET Studios in New York City, New York, United States.
John Ricard/FilmMagic
The celebrations will begin during the week leading up to the June 9 award show. From June 7-8, the festivities include the BET Experience (BETX) Fan Fest live from the 106 & Park stage at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Kicking off with a reimagined “Freestyle Friday Battle” that will spotlight emerging artists and ending with the show’s hosts reuniting to reminisce on their favorite moments, the weekend will be filled with several opportunities for both fans and cast members to show their appreciation for the series. Terrence J will host the “Red Carpet Live” pre-show on June 9.
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