Birdman Thinks CEOs Should Be Saluted During Hip Hop's 50th Anniversary

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While we're celebrating our favorite artists, Birdman thinks the power players behind the scenes deserve recognition as well.

We hope you aren't growing tired of hearing about Hip Hop's 50th Anniversary because Birdman is weighing in. We've continued to celebrate the culture in all forms regardless of the year, but 2023 is extra special. This year marks five decades of Rap, and artists from all generations are sharing their thoughts on Hip Hop's history. Today (February 28), Birdman helped close out Black History Month by dropping off a few thoughts on Instagram.

The Louisiana icon isn't one who spends much time on social media. Unlike his peers, appearances online are scarce, so when he does surface, fans immediately pay attention. At the Grammy Awards, the Hip Hop tribute was filled with artists who have contributed significantly to the culture. However, Birdman believes that this yearlong celebration also needs to include movers and shakers.

What About The CEOs?

Lil Wayne's "Funeral" Album Release Party
MIAMI, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 01: Birdman and Lil Waune attend Lil Wayne's "Funeral" album release party on February 01, 2020 in Miami, Florida (Photo by Gerardo Mora/Getty Images for Young Money/Republic Records)

Undoubtedly, it takes more than a talent to create a star. Labelheads, managers, A&Rs, publicists, assistants, producers, videographers, photographers, and more have aided in Hip Hop becoming the global influence that it is today. "Im confused about 50yrs of hip hop where they salute legendary artists which is well respeked," Birdman wrote. "Also I think CEOs who kept these artists alive to be great showed them how to keep hip hop alive should be saluted in a major way."

"I remember wen they said hip hop was dead and we Kept it alive," he continued. "YMCMB 20plus summers respek our hussle CEO s kept hip hop alive frfr @cashmoneyofficial #RICHGANG #STUNNAMAN🐍💚🐊🦅🐐." It looks like Birdman hopes the public will also recognize the power players behind the scenes who turn everyday talents into superstars. Young Money and Cash Money were the voice of an era. They carved out the careers of Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, Drake, and more.

Lil Wayne Is No. 1, According To Him

Weezy seemingly acknowledged his contributions to Hip Hop in a recent interview. He spoke on the Top 50 Greatest Rappers of All Time list that captivated fans, but Wayne was placed 7th. The top spot was taken by Jay-Z, but Wayne told Zane Lowe that no one was higher than him.

About The Author
Since 2019, Erika Marie has worked as a journalist for HotNewHipHop, covering music, film, television, art, fashion, politics, and all things regarding entertainment. With 20 years in the industry under her belt, Erika Marie moved from a writer on the graveyard shift at HNHH to becoming a Features Editor, highlighting long-form content and interviews with some of Hip Hop’s biggest stars. She has had the pleasure of sitting down with artists and personalities like DJ Jazzy Jeff, Salt ’N Pepa, Nick Cannon, Rah Digga, Rakim, Rapsody, Ari Lennox, Jacquees, Roxanne Shante, Yo-Yo, Sean Paul, Raven Symoné, Queen Naija, Ryan Destiny, DreamDoll, DaniLeigh, Sean Kingston, Reginae Carter, Jason Lee, Kamaiyah, Rome Flynn, Zonnique, Fantasia, and Just Blaze—just to name a few. In addition to one-on-one chats with influential public figures, Erika Marie also covers content connected to the culture. She’s attended and covered the BET Awards as well as private listening parties, the Rolling Loud festival, and other events that emphasize established and rising talents. Detroit-born and Long Beach (CA)-raised, Erika Marie has eclectic music taste that often helps direct the interests she focuses on here at HNHH. She finds it necessary to report on cultural conversations with respect and honor those on the mic and the hardworking teams that help get them there. Moreover, as an advocate for women, Erika Marie pays particular attention to the impact of femcees. She sits down with rising rappers for HNHH—like Big Jade, Kali, Rubi Rose, Armani Caesar, Amy Luciani, and Omerettà—to gain their perspectives on a fast-paced industry.