Vice President Kamala Harris hosts an iconic 50th-anniversary hip-hop celebration, featuring Lil Wayne, Common, and other top hip-hop artists at a historic event in Washington D.C

Kamala Harris Joins Lil Wayne in Epic Hip-Hop 50th Anniversary

^{Credit: Google | Kamala Harri | Lil Wayne}

In an unprecedented celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, Vice President Kamala Harris gathered an illustrious ensemble of artists, politicians, and cultural influencers at the official residence of the vice president in Washington, D.C. The event, aptly titled “50 Years of Hip-Hop“, marked a pivotal moment in music history and American culture.

Lil Wayne, taking the stage and speaking on behalf of many attendees, expressed his disbelief at the honor of being part of this momentous occasion. Vice President Harris, in her opening remarks, lauded hip-hop for its unparalleled influence on American popular culture, recognizing its reflection of the nation’s rich diversity and creative brilliance.

Hip hop is a celebration of Black joy, freedom, and liberation. It was my honor to commemorate the 50th anniversary of this ultimate American art form by hosting the first-ever hip hop event at the Vice President's Residence. pic.twitter.com/sPsJV89wO1
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) September 10, 2023

Despite hip-hop’s growing recognition in recent years, it was surreal to witness hip-hop legends like Common, Jeezy, Fat Joe, Remy Ma, Doug E. Fresh, Slick Rick, MC Lyte, and Wale performing on the front lawn of the vice president’s residence. This extraordinary event, presented in partnership with the Recording Academy’s Black Music Coalition and Live Nation Urban, unfolded under the blazing sun, offering a fusion of glamour and authenticity with a “smart casual” dress code.

The festivities commenced shortly after noon, featuring an introductory performance followed by remarks from Doug Emhoff, CEO of the Recording Academy Harvey Mason Jr., and Vice President Harris herself. Harris shared heartfelt anecdotes from her youth, recounting journeys with friends from Oakland to San Francisco, dancing to the beats of hip-hop.

DJ D-Nice, assuming the role of a charismatic compere, ushered in a series of performances, each lasting between 10 to 20 minutes. The event’s highlights included Fat Joe and Remy Ma’s electrifying rendition of “All the Way Up,” Doug E. Fresh’s iconic hits, and a mesmerizing performance by Slick Rick, adorned with his signature opulent jewelry.

Virtually all the artists acknowledged the significance of the setting. Common, who later held hands with rumored paramour Jennifer Hudson, paid homage to hip-hop’s journey with a special rendition of Notorious B.I.G.’s “Juicy“, modifying lyrics to reflect, “We never thought that hip-hop would take us to the vice president’s lawn“!

As Jeezy’s set continued, the gathering witnessed a climactic moment as dark clouds rolled in, offering respite from the sun. The MC hinted at a surprise guest appearance, and as the crowd’s excitement peaked, Lil Wayne stormed the stage. Clad in a white T-shirt and a black suit jacket, Lil Wayne delivered a blazing performance, culminating in an explosive finale featuring “6 Foot 7 Foot” and “A Milli“.

Beyond the music, this celebration underscored hip-hop’s enduring impact on American society and culture. Distinguished guests in attendance included Senator Raphael Warnock, Representative Cori Bush, and Maryland Governor Wes Moore, all united in honoring the genre’s profound legacy.

Harvey Mason Jr. emphasized that hip-hop has transcended genres, leaving an indelible mark on the entire music landscape. He celebrated Vice President Harris for her deep connection to hip-hop, solidifying the genre’s status as a cultural force that continues to shape the American narrative, half a century and counting.