Christian hip-hop will receive a two-day spotlight during the 2023 GMA Dove Awards Week with the launch of Future Legacy at Rocketown in downtown Nashville.
Organized through the Gospel Music Association’s Christian Hip Hop Committee, the event is a collaboration between Syntax Creative, Reflection Music Group and Rocketown. It will combine a live showcase with networking opportunities and panel discussions designed for artists and music-industry professionals.
“Christian hip-hop is a vital part of the gospel music ecosystem,” Gospel Music Association President Jackie Patillo said. “It will be well-represented at this year’s GMA Dove Awards Week.”
The performance showcase begins at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 16. Reflection Music Group CEO Doc Watson curated a lineup spanning multiple generations and corners of Christian rap.
Future Legacy performance lineup
- Adriel Cruz
- Derek Minor
- DJ Mal-Ski
- GRITS
- Jon Keith
- Social Club Misfits
- Wande
“Future Legacy is a rare opportunity to get in front of both the industry and the fans of the music,” Watson said.
The event continues at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17, with a networking brunch followed by two panel discussions curated by Syntax Creative CEO Timothy J. Trudeau.
The first panel will focus on streaming strategies and feature representatives from several major digital music platforms:
- AJ Ramos, head of artist partnerships at YouTube
- Lauren Tidwel, Christian and gospel programmer at Amazon Music
- Melissa Chalos, associate director of programming at Pandora
“We’ve secured representation from four of the top DSPs,” Trudeau said. “It will be well worth the investment.”
A second discussion will examine media strategy, including how artists and their teams can work with broadcasters, publications and other outlets.
- Camryn Trayvick, music programming manager at BET
- Fred Jerkins, CEO of We Break Records
- James Rosseau, CEO of Holy Culture Radio
- Justin Sarachik, editor-in-chief of Rapzilla
Rocketown Director of Venue Verbs Boyer said the idea grew out of a brunch held during the previous year’s Dove Awards activities.
“Now we’re adding performances and panels,” Boyer said. “This is also a significant year for Christian hip-hop. Future Legacy will be one for the books.”
The inaugural event arrives as hip-hop celebrates its 50th anniversary and the Gospel Music Association approaches six decades of recognizing Christian and gospel music.