The 2016 Hip Hop Honors aired on VH1 Monday night, coming out of its 6 year hiatus with an “All Hail The Queens” theme tribute. Paying homage to this year’s honorees, Queen Latifah, Missy Elliot, Salt N Pepa, and Lil Kim. The Hip Hop Honors were hosted by the very lovely and very talented rapper Eve.

 

The tributes were pretty cool and nostalgic for anyone who grew up listening to Latifah’s U.N.I.T.Y., Salt N Pepa’s Push It, Lil Kim’s Lighters Up, or any of Missy Elliot’s timeless futuristic hits.

Even Rich Homie Quan had his 15 mins. Of fame on stage alongside the Queen B herself, as he embarrassed himself attempting to rap a Biggie verse. He later apologized for his abomination via Instagram. Amber Rose also made an appearance, but we are still trying to figure out why.

However, in the midst of all the great moments (and the not so great moments), it was Teyana Taylor who stole the show. She channeled her inner Lil Kim and not only nailed the look, but embodied the sound as well. It was like watching the Lil Kim we all loved, back when she used to rock the stage and the music videos, and truly represented for the ladies. Diddy even made a surprise appearance during Lil Kim’s tribute, wishing her a happy birthday and words of gratitude for her presence in Hip Hop.

Lil Mama channeled her inner Lil Kim as well and gave us a great performance. Ashanti and Keke Palmer also rocked the Hip Hop Honors with their Salt N Pepa “Whatta Man” and “Push it” tributes.

Lady of Rage, MC Lyte, Monie Love, Yo Yo, Da Brat, Ms. Jade, Suga T., Eve, Rah Digga, and even Mia X (where the heck has she been?!) graced the stage during Queen Latifah’s performance of the classic U.N.I.T.Y., as she honored all of the ladies who played their part in influencing the Hip Hop community.

Overall, the 2016 Hip Hop Honors did a good job putting the “ladies first”. It was very entertaining to watch and although there were some mishaps, it’s always good to see good music and artists represented, especially within Hip Hop.