On October 15, 2025 at Cipriani Wall Street, The Hip Hop Museum will host an exclusive, invite-only gala bringing together esteemed guests from across the cultural, corporate, and creative landscape.
As we prepare to open our doors in 2026, our second gala serves as a pivotal moment—to share our mission, spread the word , raise vital funds, and fortify the partnerships that will bring the museum to life .
More than a celebration, this is a call to action: to preserve the past, power the present, and define the future of Hip Hop.
The Mission: To create the official home of Hip Hop culture— a world -class institution honoring its origins, celebrating its evolution, and educating generations to come.
The Message: Hip Hop built this. We invite you to join us to build Hip Hop’s home.
We’re excited to announce the full line-up of honorees for our black-tie gala “Building Hip Hop’s Forever Home.”
This historic evening will honor:
- Andre Harrell, the founder of Uptown Records and former CEO of Motown Records, with the Legacy Award (Posthumous Recognition)
- Fat Joe, Hip Hop icon & entrepreneur (The People’s Champ Vanguard Award)
- Slick Rick, Hip Hop legend & storytelling pioneer (Storytelling Vanguard Award)
- Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, renowned academic & author (Hip Hop Scholar Award)
- Golnar Khosrowshahi, founder & CEO, Reservoir Media (Blaze the Trail Award)
- Elizabeth Velez, President, The Velez Organization (Foundation to the Roof Award)
- Adam & Mindy Silverstein, philanthropists (One Love Philanthropy Award)
- Sal Abbatiello, founder & CEO, Fever Enterprises (All The Way Up Award)
- Carl E. Heastie, Speaker of the New York State Assembly (Changemaker Award)
- La Reezy, recording artist & cultural innovator (Next Up Award)
- Kool DJ Red Alert, Hip Hop icon & culture architect (The Sound of the Culture Award)
And performances by…
The Hip Hop Museum proudly announces DJ Cassidy as a special performer at our 2025 Gala! Recognized worldwide for his artistry, style, and influence, DJ Cassidy has elevated Hip Hop culture by curating historic musical experiences and celebrating its legacy across generations. From the world’s biggest stages and cultural milestones, Cassidy has showcased Hip Hop’s power to inspire, unite, and innovate. Join us on October 15 at Cipriani Wall Street for an exquisite evening you won’t want to miss.
Powered by our official media partner Hot 97, the night will celebrate the culture and those who continue to preserve its legacy.
And you have a chance to be there!
Limited individual tickets are now available – act fast! Click here to purchase 2025 Gala Tickets.
For table sales, sponsorships and any other gala inquiries, please contact gala@thhm.org.
It’s an event like no other, can’t wait to see you there! If you’re unable to attend, please consider making a generous donation to The Museum – more information here.
