Recap of BET Hip Hop Awards 2009

The most memorable performance at the 2009 BET Hip-Hop Awards did not take place on a stage with bright lights and bootylicious dancers. It happened right outside the venue, and all the performers needed was a microphone, a DJ, and a crowd. Yes, I'm talking about The Cypher. The bit with Eminem, Black Thought, and Mos Def was the best. (Watch the Cypher spots here)
The award ceremony itself was devoid of outstanding moments. Jay-Z teamed up with Young Jeezy to perform "Real As It Gets," which appears on Blueprint III. It was a relief to see him perform anything other than "Empire State of Mind" for a change. Speaking of the Jiggaman, he edged out Lil Wayne and Kanye for the MVP trophy.

Ice Cube was appropriately honored with the I Am Hip-Hop Icon award. Cube seized the opportunity to give credit where credit was due. "Without Chuck D, we'd be on a real bad collision course," said Cube in his acceptance speech.
This year's show featured a lot more musical performances than the previous ones. That's not necessarily a bad thing unless half the performances featured a lethargic Gucci Mane. Burr!

• Complete List of 2009 BET Hip-Hop Award Winners

What did you think of the award show now that you've seen it? Sound off.