The Notable Influencers * Listed in No Specific Order of Importance
Dr. Dre
While fans are still awaiting the release of his next magnum opus, Detox, Dr. Dre finally whet their appetites with the release of a couple of singles in 2011 that reminded everyone just how brilliant the good doctor... Read More
DJ Greg Street
DJ Greg Street is as much a part of Atlanta hip hop as white tees and Bankhead. The legendary radio personality still has a penchant for landing top interviews, still maintains a presence at all major events, and still... Read More
Drake
Drake's dominance of the pop charts continued into 2011. After the success of the Toronto rapper's debut album, Thank Me Later, he was nominated for four Grammy awards at the 2011 ceremony; including Best Rap Album... Read More
Dr. Cornel West
Cornel West continued to be one of the more respected members of the Civil Rights generation with considerable influence within the hip hop community. His willingness to provide a voice for many African Americans as it... Read More
Jim Jonsin
Producer Jim Jonsin continues to prove he is one of urban music's most consistent production men. The Jonsin-produced Usher hit "There Goes My Baby" took home Best Male R&B Vocal Performance and Eminem's... Read More
Abou Thiam
Abou Thiam is a star-maker and one of music's brightest young business minds. Nolonger dismissed as 'Akon's little brother,' Thiam, as VP of A&R for Def JamRecordings is one of music's most quietly powerful voices. After... Read More
David Mays
As print publications continue to flounder, Hip Hop Weekly has proven its staying power by remaining true to its roots and maintaining its street aesthetic. Founder David Mays has helped steer the publication and its unique... Read More
Stephen Hill
BET is no longer the sole Black network dotting the landscape of American television, but that hasn't diminished its cache in the Black community nor its relevance to hip hop culture. As President of Music Programs and... Read More
Eskay
Nah Right remained on the cutting edge of hip hop news and culture throughout 2010 and 2011. Founder Ahsmi "Eskay" Rawlins is the mastermind behind a digital powerhouse that's been celebrated by Rolling Stone... Read More
Tech N9ne
Indie rapper Tech N9ne has proven that you can build a thriving reputation and career without succumbing to the major label machine. The Kansas City, Missouri rapper has quietly become an indie mainstay and one of the... Read More
