Keyshia Cole wows 2025 BET Awards with powerful performances [VIDEO]

Keyshia Cole BET Awards 2025: A Night of R&B Royalty

Keyshia Cole made a triumphant return to the spotlight during the 2025 BET Awards. Therefore, reminding fans why she’s long been considered one of the defining voices in R&B. With not one, but two show-stopping performances, Cole delivered a mix of nostalgia and innovation that resonated with both longtime fans and new listeners. From the “106 & Park” pre-show to the main stage, her presence was a major highlight of the evening. Thus, underlining the cultural impact she continues to have on the music industry.

Lighting Up the Pre-Show with “I Should Have Cheated”

Before the main ceremony even began, Keyshia Cole brought the house down with a riveting performance of her 2005 hit, “I Should Have Cheated.” This emotional anthem is known for its raw vulnerability and powerful vocal delivery. So, it set the tone for what would become a memorable night. Immediately, Cole had the audience in their feelings.

Introduced by Terrence J during the “106 & Park” 25th anniversary tribute, Cole emerged in a burgundy fur-capped ensemble that oozed confidence and glamour. Her stage presence was magnetic. So, the audience was instantly pulled into the drama and passion of the song. Even nearly two decades after its release, “I Should Have Cheated” still hits home. Additionally, Cole’s delivery proved she hasn’t lost an ounce of her vocal strength.

Keyshia Cole and GloRilla Debut New Single “Typa”

As the main event unfolded at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, fans were treated to a genre-blending surprise: Keyshia Cole and rising rap star GloRilla debuted their new collaboration, “Typa.” The track samples Cole’s timeless ballad “Love.” However, it’s layered with GloRilla’s gritty bars and confident delivery. The pairing was unexpected, but incredibly effective, bridging the gap between generations and genres in a way that felt organic and exciting.

Cole appeared in a white fur coat, exuding elegance and strength. Meanwhile, GloRilla paid tribute to Michael Jackson with a red leather outfit reminiscent of the King of Pop. Their combined stage chemistry added to the intensity of the performance. Therefore, captivating viewers and adding a fresh spin to a classic sound.

Fans on social media lit up with praise. Posts on X highlighted the duet as one of the best moments of the night, citing the perfect blend of old-school emotion and new-school swagger:

“Keyshia Cole and GloRilla killed it with ‘Typa’ at the #BETAwards!”

“Blending ‘Love’ with a new sound was genius. Cole still got it.”

A Stylish Red Carpet Presence

In addition to her performances, Keyshia Cole made waves with her red carpet appearance. While details on her outfit remain sparse, her presence added to the night’s high-glamour quotient. Fans and media alike noted her confident entrance, reinforcing her reputation as a style icon.

Her stage looks, especially the bold burgundy ensemble and the luxurious white fur coat, were just as impactful as her vocal performances. They reflected her ability to balance elegance with authenticity, a trait that has defined her throughout her career.

Social Media Reactions Confirm Cole’s Impact

Almost immediately after the performances aired, X (formerly Twitter) was abuzz with glowing reactions. Users praised Cole’s vocal prowess, emotional delivery, and stage presence. The hashtag #KeyshiaCole began trending, accompanied by celebratory messages:

“She still got it! One of the night’s best moments.”

“Bringing back ‘I Should Have Cheated’ was everything.”

“Keyshia’s vocals are still unmatched.”

This widespread positive feedback not only celebrated her music but highlighted her lasting influence in the industry. The success of her performances reflected the strength of her catalog and her ability to connect with audiences on a deep, emotional level.

Honoring 106 & Park’s Legacy

The 2025 BET Awards placed a significant focus on the 25th anniversary of “106 & Park,” a show instrumental in launching and supporting Black music talent in the early 2000s. Cole’s inclusion in this tribute was not just appropriate, it was essential. As someone whose music dominated that era, her return to the stage served as a fitting homage to a platform that helped elevate her to stardom.

Alongside other early 2000s icons like Ashanti, B2K, T.I., and Bow Wow, Cole’s performance during the “106 & Park” segment transported viewers back to a time when R&B and hip-hop reigned supreme on afternoon television. The nostalgic vibe was palpable, and Cole’s emotive delivery helped drive home the cultural weight of the celebration.

Bridging Generations with “Typa”

Perhaps the most important takeaway from Keyshia Cole’s night at the BET Awards was her ability to bridge musical generations. By teaming up with GloRilla, Cole didn’t just revisit her own legacy—she extended it. “Typa” is a song that merges heartfelt R&B with streetwise lyricism, and it opened the door for a new wave of fans to appreciate Cole’s contributions.

This kind of cross-generational collaboration is exactly what keeps veteran artists relevant in an ever-evolving industry. Cole’s willingness to innovate while staying true to her roots highlights the adaptability that has sustained her career over the years.

Final Thoughts: A Night to Remember

Keyshia Cole’s two appearances at the BET Awards were more than just performances—they were declarations. Declarations of relevance, legacy, and timeless talent. With two standout moments on one of music’s biggest nights, Cole reminded the world of her vocal gifts and emotional authenticity.

Through her career, Keyshia Cole always had a distinctive style and voice. During the mid 2000s, she’d risen to become the most popular R&B singer in the industry. There was a three year period where she absolutely owned the radio. Then, she seemingly always kept a reality show, most of which aired on BET. Later, she joined the “Love & Hip Hop Hollywood” cast, before returning to music full-time.

Whether you’re a fan from her “The Way It Is” era or just discovering her through collaborations like “Typa,” there’s no denying that Keyshia Cole continues to be a force in the industry. Her performances at the BET Awards were a celebration of where she’s been, where she is now, and the limitless potential of where she can still go.