Videos by According2HipHop
Wu-Tang Clan icons RZA, Raekwon The Chef, and Cappadonna took center stage Thursday night (Sept. 4) at Billboard’s R&B Hip-Hop Power Players event in Brooklyn, celebrating both the legacy of their group and the culture of hip-hop itself.
Introduced by Billboard CEO Mike Van, the trio accepted the Hip-Hop Hall of Fame Award at Williamsburg’s Unveiled venue. In his speech, RZA highlighted the often-overlooked contributors who shape the music industry behind the scenes.
“When you think about hall of fame, you think about famous people,” RZA said. “But there are so many others who aren’t famous who help build our culture and the careers of artists—whether it’s Steve Rifkind, Lyor Cohen, Wendy Goldstein, Dante Ross, or even Billboard Magazine. There are so many elements that make an artist, and so many elements that make the culture famous.”
He went on to reflect on hip-hop’s journey, reminding the audience that the genre was born on the streets of New York before evolving into a “global, multi-billion dollar movement that’s feeding families all over the world.”
Raekwon followed by offering thanks to Billboard, while Cappadonna closed the moment by saluting the fans and inviting Loud Records founder Steve Rifkind on stage to acknowledge his pivotal role in Wu-Tang’s success.
The evening also recognized rising talents, with Leon Thomas and GELO named R&B and Hip-Hop Rookies of the Year, respectively. The night wrapped with Cardi B receiving the coveted Impact of the Year Award.
