Fresh off the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop in 2023, HWA Icons offer expert insight into the multi-faceted culture of Hip-Hop through engaging Q & A sessions and interactive events.

President and CEO of Cru Luv Wines, Host of 'Wine and Hip-Hop' Podcast

Independent wine consultant and Cru Luv Wine President & CEO JERMAINE STONE offers an unforgettable interactive event – wine & hip-hop pairings. Jermaine has built an accomplished career, and a critically acclaimed podcast, with his pairings of Wine and Hip-Hop. Through his bespoke pairings of wines and hip-hop music, Jermaine shares his passion and expertise in wine and music – and how they go together. A selection of wines at any tier are paired with a playlist curated by Jermaine, accompanied by an engaging trivia element and special giveaway. Jermaine, who is also a gifted host and consultant, will collaborate with the host to design a unique and memorable event for your group’s next event.

RICK RUBIN | 9-Time Grammy Award-Winning Record Producer, Founder of Def Jam Recordings, and NYT Bestselling Author

MICHAEL "KILLER MIKE" RENDER | Grammy Award-Winning Rapper, Entrepreneur, Activist, and Advocate

Grammy Award-Nominated Recording Artist, Entrepreneur, Criminal Justice Reform Advocate and Co-Chair of REFORM Alliance

In his compelling moderated conversations, Grammy-nominated recording artist, entrepreneur, and criminal justice reform advocate MEEK MILL shares his journey from being Philadelphia’s hottest underground rapper to one of the world’s preeminent musical artists, and how he handled the challenges and opportunities along the way. Since an arrest spurred the international #FreeMeekMill movement, Meek has also been a passionate advocate for criminal justice reform and uses his platform to discuss these important issues with a wide audience.

CHRIS REDD | Emmy Award-Winning Comedian, Former SNL Cast Member, Writer, Rapper & Actor

ALLEN HUGHES | Award-Winning Filmmaker, Director, and Producer of FX's Dear Mama, a documentary series on the late hip hop icon Tupac Shakur

Award-Winning Musician, Actor, Entrepreneur, Rapper, NYT Bestselling Author, and Activist

Global icon JANELLE MONÁE is renowned as a musician, actor, New York Times bestselling author, and activist. Monáe is heralded for their artistry and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community and social movements toward justice and liberation. Drawing on her award-winning career as a musician and actor, her bestselling Afrofuturist short story collection The Memory Librarian, and her philosophy as an activist, Monáe shares profound insights that inspire and energize audiences of all kinds.

REV RUN | RUN DMC Front Man, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee, Bestselling Author, Producer, DJ & TV Personality

DAPPER DAN | Legendary Fashion Innovator, Author, and Recipient of CFDA's Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award

Grammy Award-Winning Hip-Hop Artist, NYT Bestselling Author, and Social Activist

A multi-Grammy Award-winning, platinum selling artist, LECRAE has evolved into a New York Times best-selling author, entrepreneur, speaker, thought leader, philanthropist, and Co-Owner/President of Reach Records. A catalyst for restoration in faith, music, and popular culture, Lecrae's viral TED Talk helped the public see beyond his music and focus on his message: what we say and do in hip-hop - and in the world - matters, so we should be thoughtful, careful, generous and respectful. 

KJ ROSE | Talent Whisperer, Energy Purveyor, and Hype Coach, Author, and Artist Development Expert

AKALA | BAFTA and MOBO Award-Winning Hip-Hop Artist, Author, and Social Entrepreneur

Digital Media Expert and Founder of 'Trapital' - the business of Hip-Hop

Digital media expert and entrepreneur DAN RUNCIE is the Founder of Trapital, a media company that’s home for the business of hip-hop. Leveraging his background in business, he pivoted to focus his analysis on the innovative strategy of hip-hop executives who are some of today’s most successful business leaders. Runcie unpacks major themes and strategies from the hip-hop world and shares actionable takeaways for companies looking to develop innovative strategies, improve creativity, and upgrade their media strategies.