The 2009 BET Hip-Hop Awards airs tonight on BET at 8 PM (EST). The high-energy show was previously taped in Atlanta and will be hosted by comedic actor Mike Epps. The show includes a string of highly-aniticipated performces by everyone from music mogul and hip-hop vet Jay-Z to newcomer Wale. 

Rapper turned actor Ice Cube is being honored with the "I Am Hip-Hop" award as BET recognizes him for being a pioneer and a global ambassador.--BB