Dr. Dre to Be Honored with Inaugural Hip-Hop Icon Award by ASCAP

Performer/producer DR. DRE at the Radio Music Awards at the Aladdin Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas. He was presented with the Legend Award. 04NOV2000. Paul Smith / Featureflash

By: Adonis Armstrong

The American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) revealed today June 20th that the first-ever Hip Hop Icon Award will be award to the legendary Dr. Dre during the 2023 Rhythm & Soul Music Awards, as reported by AP News.

As a prominent producer, the Dre gained prominence within the West Coast gangster rap scene alongside Eazy-E and Ice Cube, forming the influential group N.W.A. Their provocative lyrics during the late 1980s left a significant impact on both hip-hop culture and the music industry as a whole. Also, Dre played a key role in co-founding Death Row Records and tapped in on a solo career starting with his groundbreaking debut masterpiece called The Chronic, which revolutionized the hip-hop landscape and paved the way for artists who followed in his footsteps.

The Hip Hop Icon Award, as indicated by ASCAP, recognizes ASCAP members who have made a significant and lasting impact on the art and culture of hip hop. These individuals have inspired and influenced fellow music creators, contributing to the rich tapestry of the genre. ASCAP itself is an organization comprised of professional songwriters, composers, and music publishers. It is governed and founded by its members and stands as a global leader in performance royalties, advocacy, and service for music creators.

This accomplishment shouldn’t come as a surprise, considering his his extensive track record of producing chart-topping hits for renowned artists such as JAY-Z, Eminem, 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, 2Pac, Nas, T.I., Eve, Mary J. Blige, Gwen Stefani, Busta Rhymes, and Kendrick Lamar, among others. Furthermore, Dr. Dre's first Emmy win was secured for his remarkable performance at the 2022 Super Bowl halftime show alongside Eminem, Blige, Snoop Dogg, Lamar, and 50 Cent. In 2010, Dr. Dre was honored with the ASCAP Founders Award at the 23rd annual Rhythm & Soul Music Awards.

Dr. Dre’s groundbreaking early work laid a foundation for hip hop as we know it today,” Paul Williams, chairman of the board and president at ASCAP, said in a statement. “As a champion for some of today’s biggest artists and a successful entrepreneur, he changed the culture around hip hop. In celebration of hip hop's 50th birthday, the event is scheduled to occur on Thursday June 22nd in Los Angeles, California. DJ Kid Capri and DJ Drama have been enlisted to create an electrifying atmosphere for the night, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees.

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