Nas and Lil Wayne have recently achieved remarkable milestones by being inducted into Billboard’s newly established Hip Hop Hall of Fame. This noteworthy event occurred during Billboard’s 2023 R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players event in Los Angeles on Tuesday (August 8) as part of the grand celebration of Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary.
Following an introduction from Billboard’s Executive Director of R&B/Hip Hop, Gail Mitchell, Lil Wayne took the stage to graciously accept this prestigious award. During his acceptance speech, Lil Wayne expressed his gratitude to the divine powers above, as well as acknowledging those we have lost and those we wish could have been present for this momentous occasion. He also expressed his deep appreciation to his fans, emphasizing that their unwavering support has played an invaluable role in his success and growth as an artist.
During an electrifying event, Nas took the stage after an equally impressive introduction by Billboard’s Deputy Director of R&B/Hip Hop, Carl Lamarre. Nas shared the motivation behind his rap career, emphasizing that it stemmed from a profound passion for the music rather than the desire for awards.
Ice Spice was crowned Rookie of the Year at the event, lauded as Hip Hop’s new rising star.
Nas and Lil Wayne became the first inductees into Billboard’s Hip Hop Hall of Fame, a long-awaited institution urged by numerous rappers. RZA, in a recent interview with Rolling Stone, highlighted the significance of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s recognition of Hip Hop, and expressed the excitement for the establishment of the Hip Hop Hall of Fame.
Watch Both speeches below:
