Billboard recently hosted a series of events honoring the biggest names in R&B and hip-hop, celebrating the genres’ impact and influence. From awards ceremonies recognizing industry power players to electrifying live performances, the weekend was a testament to the enduring power of these musical forces.
Megan Thee Stallion, Playboi Carti, and More Honored at R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players Event
The festivities kicked off with the 2024 R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players event, a night dedicated to acknowledging the individuals shaping the future of the genres.
Megan Thee Stallion and Playboi Carti, two artists who have redefined contemporary hip-hop, were crowned Artist of the Year. Rachelle Jean-Louis, the visionary manager behind three-time Grammy winner Victoria Monét, was recognized as Executive of the Year. Rising star Teezo Touchdown, known for his genre-bending sound and captivating visuals, earned the title of Rookie of the Year.
Billboard Hip-Hop Live Sets the Stage Ablaze
The celebrations continued with Billboard Hip-Hop Live, a concert showcasing the dynamism and diversity of contemporary hip-hop. Teezo Touchdown, fresh off his Power Players win, delivered a captivating headlining set. Fellow rising stars BigXThaPlug and Bossman Dlow also graced the stage, igniting the crowd with their infectious energy and hard-hitting beats. The night culminated with a surprise appearance by Ice Spice, who performed her Billboard Hot 100 hit “Think U the Shit (Fart).”
Intimate No. 1’s Party Honors R&B Luminaries
Billboard shifted gears on Sunday night with an exclusive No. 1’s Party dedicated to R&B’s finest. The intimate gathering celebrated the achievements of Usher, Tyla, Lucky Daye, Luther Vandross, and Victoria Monét.
Usher, a true icon, was honored as R&B Entertainer of the Year. Tyla received the Global Force Award, acknowledging her international impact. Lucky Daye was recognized as the Torchbearer, carrying the legacy of R&B forward. Luther Vandross was posthumously honored with the Icon Award for his immeasurable contributions to the genre. Victoria Monét received the Hitmaker Award, celebrating her consistent chart success.
Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl Announcement Steals the Show
Amidst a weekend packed with celebrations, news of Kendrick Lamar headlining the Super Bowl LIX halftime show sent shockwaves through the music world. The announcement solidified Lamar’s status as one of the most influential artists of his generation and sparked widespread anticipation for what promises to be a historic performance.
Fresh Picks: A Spotlight on Emerging Talent
Billboard’s Fresh Picks series continued its mission of highlighting the next generation of R&B and hip-hop stars. This week’s selections showcased a diverse range of sounds, from Powers Pleasant’s collaborative banger “Shmoke” featuring A$AP Ferg and Armani Caesar to Laila!’s introspective debut album “Gap Year.”
Toosii and Gunna teamed up for “Champs Élysées,” a triumphant anthem celebrating their successes. Chow Lee and AJ Tracey joined forces on “I’m Not Really That Spiritual!,” a brazen track embracing their unapologetic styles. Naomi Sharon and DJ Snake collaborated on a dancefloor-ready remix of Sharon’s ethereal track “Goodbyes (Myrrh).” SleazyWorldGo and Rob 49 united on “I Like That,” a gritty portrayal of their respective hometowns.
Billboard’s weekend of events served as a powerful reminder of the cultural significance and enduring influence of R&B and hip-hop. By celebrating established icons and shining a light on emerging talent, Billboard continues to shape the future of these dynamic genres.
