Hip-Hop Titans Crowned at Billboard Power Players 2025: Top Dawg, Cardi B, and Leon Thomas Honored

The Billboard 2025 R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players event, held on Thursday night, September 4, at Unveiled in New York, celebrated a diverse array of talent and influence within the R&B and hip-hop genres. Esteemed artists and industry figures such as Cardi B, Leon Thomas, Wu-Tang Clan, and Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith were among those honored for their significant contributions to music and culture.

Billboard cover star Cardi B was recognized with the prestigious Impact of the Year Award. In her acceptance speech, she passionately affirmed New York's status as the home of hip-hop, highlighting her personal connection to the genre. Cardi B shared that growing up, she aspired to emulate hip-hop pioneers like Trina and Lil Kim, a sentiment that resonates deeply with the genre's history and influence. She then energized the event by playing her latest single, “Imaginary Playerz,” which famously samples Jay-Z’s 1997 track of the same name.

Leon Thomas, another Billboard cover star, received the Breakthrough of the Year Award. Known for his hit “Mutt,” Thomas offered heartfelt thanks to God for his 22-year musical journey and acknowledged Ty Dolla $ign, to whose EZMNY Records he is signed. His poignant declaration that “R&B still matters” served as a powerful reminder of the genre's enduring relevance and artistic depth.

The legendary Wu-Tang Clan, with Raekwon The Chef and Cappadonna joining RZA on stage, was inducted into the Hip-Hop Hall of Fame. RZA expressed deep gratitude to the entire Billboard staff for their recognition, describing the honor as a “wonderful validation.” He reflected on the group's origins in 1993 and their consistent presence on Billboard charts, which brought them a unique sense of accomplishment and visibility.

Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith, the CEO of Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE), was honored with the Executive of the Year Award. Accompanied by TDE co-presidents Anthony “Moosa” Tiffith Jr. (his son) and Terrence “Punch” Henderson (his cousin), Tiffith took the stage in his signature red TDE cap. Despite his preference for a behind-the-scenes role, Tiffith humorously remarked, “I feel like I should’ve won this three, four, five times,” before expressing his appreciation for the recognition, calling it the