BET Awards 2009

The nominations were announced May 12, 2009 during 106 & Park's 2009 BET Award Nominations Special. ==Michael Jackson tribute==

On June 25, 2009, American recording artist and entertainer Michael Jackson died due to cardiac arrest just three days before the award ceremony aired. In honor of Jackson, BET announced, through their website, that the awards show would be changed to honor Jackson's contributions. The ceremony began with R&B group New Edition performing a mash up of Jackson 5 hits, including ABC, which gained a standing ovation from the entire audience. Throughout the event, various artists performed covers of Jackson's hit singles, such as Ne-Yo's take on "The Lady in My Life", Ciara's cover of "Heal the World", and Keke Palmer's a cappella version of "Who's Loving You". ==References==