Last night Atlanta played host to the 2009 Soul Train Awards which returned after a two year break. The who's who of the black music industry attended the event including, of course, co-hosts Taraji P. Hensen and Terrence Howard, Charlie Wilson, Chaka Khan, Toni Braxton, Keri Hilson, Monica, Chrisette Michelle, Keith Sweat, MC Hammer, Fantasia (who has lost much weight and looks great!), Chico DeBarge and the list goes on.  However, there were quite a few big no shows as well.  Among the no shows: Beyonce, Kanye West, Maxwell, Mary Mary, Ne-Yo, Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Hudson and Drake. The absentees were glaring because many of them won awards but were not present to accept.  Beyonce won several awards including Best Album.  Mary, Mary and Maxwell also won awards.   Some of the moments of note, Charlie Wilson receiving the Soul Train Legend Award and a special tribute performance.  The tribute included performances by Keith Sweat, Genuwine, Raheem DeVaughn, Brian Mcknight, K-Ci and JoJo and Kandi.  Angie Stone did a tribute to Chaka Khan by performing "Ain't Nobody".  The act was highlighted by Chaka jumping in at the end to duet with Angie spontaneously (hope this isn't edited out!).

Congratulations and Big Ups to Sean Paul for winning the first ever Best Reggae Artist Award.  He was actually in the building to receive the award --  Dutty ya!!!

The show will be simulcast on November 29 at 9PM EST on BET and Centric (BET spinoff).

Red Carpet Photos: Gregory Smith, AP

Posted by: on Nov 04, 2009