Dr. Dre, Nas, and Scarface were among the many hip-hop heavyweights who turned out for the Paid in Full Foundation’s 3rd Annual Hip Hop Grandmaster Awards.
The celebration took place Saturday (Oct. 18) at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, where rap pioneers Kool G Rap and Grand Puba were honored for their lasting impact on hip-hop culture.
Hosted by the legendary Roxanne Shanté, the star-packed event drew an impressive lineup of guests, 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 ceremony introduced two brand-new awards. George Clinton was honored with the inaugural Quincy Jones Award, celebrating trailblazers who helped shape the foundation of hip-hop. Meanwhile, the first-ever Contributor Award went to Kool Rock-Ski of the Fat Boys and Jalil Hutchins of Whodini, recognizing artists who broadened the genre’s influence and legacy.
The night also featured a special conversation paying tribute to the late Quincy Jones, with his son Quincy Jones III joining Dr. Dre, Scarface, Babyface, and George Clinton for the heartfelt discussion.
Nas, Ludacris, Rakim, Babyface, George Clinton, Havoc, and more took the stage for electrifying performances at the prestigious event, while Steve Stoute led a heartfelt fireside chat honoring Grandmasters Kool G Rap and Grand Puba.
Founded in 2022 by Ben and Felicia Horowitz, the Paid in Full Foundation was created to recognize and uplift hip-hop pioneers who haven’t always received the recognition or financial rewards matching their cultural impact. Each honoree also receives a financial grant to help support their ongoing creative endeavors.
According to a press release, this year’s honorees were chosen by a selection committee that included past recipients Rakim and Scarface, alongside foundation board and advisory members such as Nas, Fab 5 Freddy, and Steve Stoute.
