SZA Reigns Supreme: Four Wins Propel Her to Soul Train Awards Glory

Janelle Monáe accepts the Spirit of Soul Award presented by L'Oréal onstage at Soul Train Awards 2023 on November 19, 2023 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images for BET)

In a dazzling celebration of Black culture, the 2023 Soul Train Awards unfolded on Sunday night, hosted with flair by the multifaceted Keke Palmer. The star-studded event showcased a night of triumphs, unforgettable performances and historic moments.

Highlights 

The immensely talented SZA dominated the night, securing four coveted awards, including Best R&B/Soul Female Artist and Album of the Year. Usher, not to be outdone, clinched three statuettes, including Best R&B/Soul Male Artist and Certified Soul Award. Victoria Monét's brilliance shone through as she claimed awards for Best Dance Performance and Video of the Year.

Unforgettable Performances

Janelle Monae, honored with the Spirit of Life Award, mesmerized the audience with vibrant renditions from her Grammy-nominated album. Muni Long, collaborating with Grammy winners Jermaine Dupri and Bryan-Michael Cox, delivered a nuanced performance of her latest single. The Soul Cypher featured R&B luminaries freestyling over Usher’s 2001 hit "U Got It Bad."

Host Keke Palmer & Historic Moment

Keke Palmer, as the host, infused the event with energy, setting the stage for BET’s "house party of the year." A notable highlight was the all-female-of-color writing team — a historic first in Soul Train's illustrious history.

Closing Moments

The zenith of the evening was the Legend Award presentation to T-Pain, marked by rapper and activist David Banner. Reflecting on his journey, T-Pain urged new artists to embrace authenticity and closed the night with a high-energy medley of his hits.

Encore Presentation

The 2023 Soul Train Awards, an epitome of cultural celebration, will be broadcast again on November 27 and November 29 on BET.

Complete List of Winners:

Best New Artist: Coco Jones

Certified Soul Award: Usher
Best R&B/Soul Female Artist: SZA
Best R&B/Soul Male Artist: Usher
Best Gospel/Inspirational Award: "All Things" - Kirk Franklin
Song of the Year: "Snooze" - SZA
Album of the Year: "SOS" - SZA
The Ashford and Simpson Songwriter’s Award: "Snooze" - SZA
Best Dance Performance: "On My Mama" - Victoria Monét
Best Collaboration: "Good Good" - Usher, Summer Walker, 21 Savage
Best Group: Maverick City Music
Video of the Year: "On My Mama" - Victoria Monét
Spirit of Soul Award: Janelle Monáe
Legend Award: T-Pain