by R&B/soul singer Raheem DeVaughn aka the self proclaimed ‘R&B, Hippie, Neo-Soul, Rock Star’ led the pack at the first-ever BET J Virtual Awards last week. DeVaughn picked up two awards including Album of the Year for “Love Behind The Melody,” his second studio album. Led by the singles “Customer” and “Woman,” “Love Behind The Melody” debuted on the Billboard 200 in January, later reaching its peak at no.1 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. Following DeVaughn’s double win, he also won Male Artist of the Year, “American Boy” singer Estelle picked up ‘Song of the Year’ for her ode to stateside gentleman. Alicia Keys, Chrisette Michelle, Wyclef Jean, Eric Roberson, and Rahsaan Patterson also received awards at the virtual ceremony hosted by Nia Long and Chris Spencer. (see a full list of winners below) The digital network’s first annual “virtual” broadcast brought viewers a star-studded line up of musical performances from Robin Thicke, Estelle, Erykah Badu, Wyclef Jean and Raheem DeVaughn among others, and celebrity appearances by award presenters Terrence Howard, Jermaine Dupri, TLC, Eric Benet, En Vogue, Darrin Henson and BET’s Jeff Johnson. Album of the Year: Raheem Devaughn Song of the Year: Estelle “American Boy” Male Artist of the Year: Raheem DeVaughn Female Artist of the Year: Alicia Keys Soul Approved: Chrisette Michelle Virtual Video of the Year: Wyclef Jean “Fast Car” Best Gospel Artist: Marvin Sapp Best Underground Artist (Tie) Rahsaan Patterson & Eric Roberson Live Performer of the Year: The Roots Best Film of the Year: The Great Debaters Best Actor: Will Smith Best Actress: Jill Scott Best Caribbean Artist: Machel Montano Contemporary Jazz Artist: George Duke Straight Ahead Jazz Artist: Wynton Marsalis
