Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players 2026 Celebrates Icons and Rising Stars
Billboard held its R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players event in New York City on Sept. 9, honoring The Roots with the Hip-Hop Hall of Fame Award and Jill Scott with the R&B Hall of Fame Award. Emerging artists Samara Cyn, Destin Conrad, and Skippa were recognized as rising stars. Kehlani was named R&B Artist of the Year, and David Ali was honored as executive of the year.
The ceremony, held at SoHo House, brought together industry professionals from management, publicity, and artist development. Alongside the veteran honors, the event spotlighted three emerging acts, with Skippa receiving a brand-new award recognizing Caribbean influence. These rising talents are scheduled to perform at the Brooklyn Steel concert the following evening.
The evening also highlighted a long-standing professional bond. Above Ground Entertainment's chief executive, David Ali, received the executive of the year distinction. His client, Kehlani, accepted the R&B artist of the year prize and publicly thanked Ali, describing their relationship as deeply familial.
This dual focus on legacy acts and fresh voices could reinforce the genre's commercial and cultural relevance. By honoring established icons like The Roots and Jill Scott alongside newcomers, the event may help bridge generational gaps in fandom. The recognition of a Caribbean artist suggests a broadening of the genre's boundaries, which could influence future award circuits and label scouting. For industry professionals, such celebrations may boost morale and highlight the importance of mentorship, potentially shaping how talent is nurtured.