The movers and shakers of the Hip-Hop industry celebrated over the weekend at the Source Awards in Miami. To kick the weekend off on Friday a Gala Reception was held at the Parrot Jungle to welcome all VIP’s in town. Show presenters, nominees and VIP guests were invited. After the reception Club Bed is where I headed and there I ran into movie director Jean-Claude Lamarre (Gang of Roses, Nora’s Hair Salon) and Dr. Dre.

Saturday Minister Louis Farrakhan spoke at the Unity is Power Voter Education Rally. Organized by the Source Magazine and the Artist Empowerment Coalition, the Voter Education Rally addressed issues of the urban community. Later that evening DJ Clue, Lil Wayne and Nick Cannon just to name a few, was on the court for the celebrity basketball game. During half-time Ludacris and Shaunna performed and MCs battled for the Unsigned Hype Championship. Club Teasers was the official after party and everybody was in the house. Trina, Missey Elliot, Mr. Cheeks, Shaunna, Pittbull, comedian Shawty, urban fashion designer Gully and more was in the building.

Sunday hip-hop greats stepped out to show out. The bling was everywhere and so was I. I was all over James L. Knight Center. On the red carpet I met up with the Bay area’s WTMP’s Louis Muhammad, Hip-Hop 411 Superstars and Mad Linx. In the press room I got the opportunity to meet Mike Tyson, Akon, Justin Gatlin and more, but nothing compared to the all inclusive green room. After the shows taping South Beach was next on my list. The official Source after party was at Club 112. I stopped in at my birthday party at Crobar, but made the Opium my final party destination. The Opium party was hosted by Ciara and as some would say it was “off the chain”.

I’m glad I decided to attend the Source Awards this year. The Source did an excellent job on taking care of their VIP and All Access guests. I’d like to give a special Thanks to Allison (Source Magazine) for putting everything together for me, my BET family Gregory Martin and Pat Charles you guys are awesome, and the “Realest”, Hip Hop 411’s Sam for making my birthday and keeping me laughing.

Source weekend included events the entire family could enjoy, a professional staff and great accommodations. There is no question I’ll be there next year and I hope to see you there. The Source Awards airs on BET Nov. 11th.



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