Legendary beat boxer Doug E. Fresh received the prestigious I Am Hip Hop Award at the 2014 BET Hip-Hop Awards in Atlanta on Saturday (Sept. 20). Actor Michael K. Williams presented the rapper, dubbed "the Human Beat Box," with the illustrious trophy.

During his acceptance speech, Fresh choked up and became teary-eyed. He revealed to the audience that his beloved mother died five months ago from Alzheimer's disease.

"I have to acknowledge her," Fresh told the crowd (quotes via the Associated Press). "I want to thank this woman and hip-hop. If it wasn't for hip-hop, I don't know where I would be."

Fresh also thanked artists who have helped him throughout his 30-year career including Slick Rick and his group the Get Fresh Crew.

After his speech, the 48-year-old rapper treated audiences to a rendition of 'La Di Da Di' with the show's host, Snoop Dogg.

"So full of gratitude and appreciation #Blessed #BETHipHopAwards," Fresh tweeted after his performance.

Doug E. Fresh Snoop Dogg
Brad Bracket/BET, Getty Images
loading...

Among the winners at the BET Hip-Hop Awards included Future who won Best Club Banger for 'Move That Dope.'

Meanwhile, Keyshia Cole surprised everybody with her appearance at the event. The R&B singer has been garnering plenty of headlines as of late -- and it wasn't for her music. A day after being arrested for allegedly beating a woman at Birdman's condo, she graced the stage to present the Producer of the Year Award to DJ Mustard.

Afterward, DJ Mustard entertained the crowd with a medley of his hits and brought out Ty Dolla $ign who performed 'Paranoid' and YG who rapped 'My Hittas,' which won him a trophy for Best Collab, Duo or Group (along with Rich Homie Quan).

The full winners' list will be announced on the day of the show. Rap superstar Drake received the most nominations with eight nods including Lyricist of the Year. Fellow rhymers Jay Z, Pharrell and Future each nabbed six nominations apiece.

The 2014 BET Hip-Hop Awards will air on Oct. 14 at 8PM ET.

DJ Mustard
Brad Bracket/BET, Getty Images
loading...
Future
Brad Bracket/BET, Getty Images
loading...

More From TheBoombox