The NXT Awards aim to fill cultural void left by BET Hip Hop Awards suspension

ATLANTA — The NXT Awards, a new culture-forward awards show celebrating music, media, and influence, will premiere Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, at Gateway Arena in College Park.

About the Nxt Awards

Created by Now That’s TV founder Teleau Belton, the awards aims to spotlight rising talent and cultural impact across entertainment, following the indefinite suspension of the BET Hip Hop Awards.

After commemorating hip hop’s 50th anniversary in 2023, the BET Hip Hop Awards saw a dramatic ratings decline—nearly 50 percent in 2024. Since then, artists, influencers, and fans have sought a new platform to honor hip hop’s legacy and future. Especially in Atlanta, a city long considered the genre’s cultural capital.

Performances

Hosted by social media personality Tia Kemp, The NXT Awards will feature live performances from DaBaby, YKNIECE, Sukihana, Travis Porter, Diamond the Body, Big Boogie, and others. The show will stream live to hundreds of thousands of Now That’s TV subscribers, expanding its reach beyond the arena.

The NXT Awards categories

• Television and Film: Independent Movie of the Year, Rising Reality Star, Reality Impact Star, Best #NTTV Show
• Music: Independent Artist of the Year (Male and Female), Breakout Artist of the Year, DJ of the Year, Music Producer of the Year, Recording Studio of the Year
• Influence: Publicist of the Year, Blogger of the Year, Streamer of the Year, Local Hotspot of the Year, Podcast of the Year
• People and Culture: Power in Pride, Beauty Icon of the Year, Vivid Visuals Awards, Jeweler of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year

Public nominations are currently open at TheNXTAwards.com.

“We look forward to honoring everyone who has made a stamp on our culture,” said Belton. “It’s no better time than the present to give the people their flowers while they are here to receive them. We are striving to create an elevated experience for the fans with powerhouse performances and an incredible run of show.”

As hip hop continues to evolve, The NXT Awards may offer a fresh blueprint for celebrating its influence—one rooted in authenticity, innovation, and community.