Ahead of the BET Awards, a look back at how the work helped hip-hop grow and thrive
“Rap City.” “106 & Park.” And even, “Uncut.” From innovative to provocative, BET has played a crucial role in creating several influential programs that helped spread hip-hop to millions of homes across the globe. Other than its rival show “Yo! MTV Raps,” the network known as Black Entertainment Television took up the mantle — despite some reluctance — to showcase a misunderstood rap culture decades before it became today’s most popular music genre. For many, BET became a safe place for those within hip-hop to express their artistry, although not without criticism. Through it all, the