Founders/CEOs of Cash Money Records and hip-hop icons Bryan “Birdman” Williams and Ronald “Slim” Williams will be the 2024 honorees at the second YouTube Music Leaders and Legends Gala. The invitation-only event will take place in Los Angeles on June 27.
Developing a roster that included pioneering hitmakers such as Lil Wayne, Drake, Nicki Minaj, Mannie Fresh and Juvenile, Birdman and Slim not only helped shine the spotlight on Southern rap in the late '90s and early '90s. of 2000. The brothers have also been instrumental in driving hip-hop's creative and cultural evolution over the past 30 years.
In a statement announcing the honor, YouTube's global head of music Leo Cohen said, “The history of Cash Money Records is one for the history books. Leaders and Legends recognizes the entrepreneurship and leadership in Black music and culture that Birdman and Slim embody at their core. They defied the odds, elevating some of rap and hip-hop's most iconic figures to superstardom and breaking sales records while doing it. We are humbled to honor their success and look forward to celebrating the music that continues to shape the label's incredible legacy.”
In comments emailed to Advertising sign, Baby says of the honor, “I appreciate Lyor and YouTube for respecting what we've accomplished and what we continue to do. This honor shines a light on all the artists who have been on Cash Money Records or associated with the label. They also participate in this honor.”
Adds Slim, “Over the years, we've just stayed out of the way and let the music speak for itself. But it's great to be recognized for our contribution to culture.”
Co-founders of LaFace Records Antonio “LA” Reid and Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds were the honorees at YouTube Music's inaugural Leaders and Legends Gala, held in Atlanta in 2020. Cohen will present the award to the Williams brothers during the gala.
“We at YouTube are committed to pushing the culture forward, so it's an honor to lead the Cash Money charge through Birdman and Slim's leadership,” he said. Touma Basha, YouTube's director of Black music and culture, in the company's announcement. “As a platform with global reach and influence, it is our responsibility to recognize and elevate the stories of black pioneers in the industry and remind the world of the immeasurable impact black music has on culture worldwide. That's what Leaders and Legends is all about.”
from our partners at https://www.billboard.com/pro/cash-money-bryan-ronald-williams-youtube-leaders-legends-award/
