Mariah The Scientist Leads R&B Nominees for 2026 BET Awards

The nominations for the 2026 BET Awards have been officially revealed, setting the stage for what promises to be a landmark evening for Black culture. Hosted by Druski, the ceremony is scheduled to air live on June 28 at 8 p.m. ET, with a simulcast available across multiple platforms, including BET, Paramount+, BET HER, MTV, and VH1.

While rap superstar Cardi B leads the overall field with six nominations, the R&B category is defined by the breakout success of Mariah The Scientist. The singer-songwriter earned five nominations, marking a significant milestone in her career. Among her notable recognitions is a nomination for Album of the Year for her critically acclaimed project, Hearts Sold Separately.

The album’s standout single, “Burning Blue,” has also garnered attention, securing nominations for Video of the Year and Viewers’ Choice. The track, produced by Nineteen85, previously reached No. 25 on the Billboard Hot 100, representing the highest-charting success of her career to date.

Other notable R&B figures making a strong showing include Teyana Taylor and Olivia Dean, who each received four nominations. Meanwhile, industry mainstays Chris Brown, Kehlani, and Jill Scott have each secured three nominations.

This year, BET has expanded its recognition by introducing two new categories: the Fashion Vanguard Award and the Pulse Award. The Fashion Vanguard Award is designed to honor global figures whose style has significantly influenced cultural narratives, while the Pulse Award recognizes creators and digital series that have effectively moved Black culture forward in online spaces.

Connie Orlando, EVP of Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET, emphasized the importance of these additions, stating, “All of our nominees represent the very best of Black culture across music, film, sports, and beyond, and with the introduction of the Fashion Vanguard Award and the Pulse Award, we’re proud to honor even more of the ways our culture continues to show up and evolve.”

Hearts Sold Separately, released in August 2025 via Epic Records, debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top R&B Albums chart. The project continues to solidify Mariah The Scientist’s position as a leading voice in contemporary R&B.