Showcasing past and present music icons, this year's BET HIP HOP AWARDS takes the competition to a whole new level with scheduled appearances by a slew of hip hop heavyweights including GZA, Wu-Tang Clan, Raekwon, Masta Killa, U-God, Inspectah Deck and RZA. Adding to the hype, rapper Jadakiss will pump up the crowd as celebrity announcer, while the famed DJ Drama spins all night. A special tribute will also be paid to female pioneers in hip hop who have paved the way for women in a predominantly male industry.

As previously announced, actor/comedian Katt Williams will host the BET HIP HOP AWARDS, and legendary hip-hop veteran Russell Simmons will be honored with the "I Am Hip Hop" Icon Award