Dr. Dre, Scarface, and Nas were among the stars that pulled up to the Paid in Full Foundation’s 3rd Annual Hip Hop Grandmaster Awards.
The event, which was held on Saturday (Oct. 18) at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, saw hip hop legends Kool G Rap and Grand Puba being honored for their contributions to the culture.
The star-studded gala, hosted by Roxanne Shanté, featured a starry guest list including Ludacris, Babyface, Chris Tucker, Gayle King, David Goggins, Van Jones, Fab 5 Freddy, Doug E. Fresh, Rakim, Grandmaster Caz, and Kool Moe Dee.
This year’s event introduced two new honors. George Clinton received the first-ever Quincy Jones Award, in celebration of those who laid the foundation for hip hop. The Contributor Award also made its debut, going to Kool Rock-Ski of the Fat Boys and Jalil Hutchins of Whodini, recognizing artists who expanded hip hop’s reach.
A conversation honoring the late Quincy Jones, featuring his son Quincy Jones III, Dr. Dre, Scarface, Babyface, and George Clinton himself.
Nas, Ludacris, Rakim, Babyface, George Clinton, Havoc, and others performed throughout the night at the prestigious event, while a fireside chat led by Steve Stoute, paid tribute to Grandmasters Kool G Rap and Grand Puba.
The Paid in Full Foundation was launched in 2022 by Ben and Felicia Horowitz and aims to celebrate hip hop pioneers who have yet to receive recognition or financial rewards equal to their impact. As part of the award, honorees also receive a financial stipend to support their continued artistic work.
Per a press statement, this year’s honorees were selected by a committee that included previous awardees Rakim and Scarface, along with members of the foundation’s board and advisory panel, such as Nas, Fab 5 Freddy, and Steve Stoute.
