A Glimpse into Variety’s Hitmakers Brunch: Celebrating Music’s Finest
Variety’s Hitmakers Brunch has become an annual spectacle, a celebration of music’s most influential and groundbreaking artists, producers, and industry insiders. This year, the event was nothing short of spectacular, as it brought together a plethora of talent from across the music world. The brunch was hosted by Jem Aswad, Variety’s executive editor of music, and presented by Afeela, setting the stage for a day filled with recognition, gratitude, and an exploration of the ever-evolving music landscape. Attendees included an impressive roster of artists such as Charli XCX, Jack Antonoff, Lana Del Rey, Olivia Rodrigo, Lainey Wilson, and Quavo, among others. These individuals have not only shaped the sound of contemporary music but have also pushed the boundaries of creativity and influence.
Charli XCX, a name synonymous with innovation in pop music, was honored as the Hitmaker of the Year. Known for her bold fashion choices and experimental sound, Charli made a statement both musically and sartorially at the event. She donned a sheer tan gown that turned heads, symbolizing her fearless approach to both her art and personal expression. During her speech, Charli paid homage to The Velvet Underground & Nico, citing their debut album as a prime example of how a ‘hit’ transcends commercial success. Despite selling only 30,000 copies, the album’s influence is undeniable, much like Charli’s own impact on modern pop music. Her humility shone through as she humorously noted that her album cover has yet to be featured in prestigious museums, unlike the iconic Andy Warhol cover of the Velvet Underground album.
The brunch also served as a platform for acknowledging the creative forces behind the scenes. Jack Antonoff, a prolific producer known for his work with artists like Taylor Swift and Lorde, was celebrated as the Producer of the Decade. Introduced by Lana Del Rey, who playfully commented on Antonoff’s financial success, he delivered a speech that oscillated between humor and introspection. Antonoff’s candid remarks about the music industry’s inner workings, including a cheeky jab at music insiders prioritizing pop crave over Pitchfork, resonated with many. He also touched on his artistic journey, emphasizing growth and evolution as central themes in his career.
Lana Del Rey, another luminary in attendance, shared insights into her unique approach to music creation. Known for her ethereal soundscapes and cinematic storytelling, Lana revealed that she had not submitted her music for Grammy consideration earlier simply because she was unaware of the process. Her honesty and down-to-earth demeanor endeared her to attendees, highlighting the often-overlooked challenges artists face in navigating the complexities of the music industry. Despite this oversight, Lana’s contribution to music remains profound, as evidenced by her continued influence and the admiration she receives from peers and fans alike.
Olivia Rodrigo, a breakout star who has captured the hearts of millions with her raw and emotive songwriting, took the opportunity to express gratitude to her producer Dan Nigro. Rodrigo credited Nigro not only for his role in her musical success but also for teaching her life skills, such as parallel parking. This anecdote served as a metaphor for the broader mentorship and guidance Nigro has provided, underscoring the importance of collaboration and support in an artist’s journey. Nigro, who was recognized as Hitmaker’s Songwriter of the Year in 2021, reflected on his own growth and the satisfaction of seeing Rodrigo’s meteoric rise.
Lainey Wilson, another honoree, was acknowledged as the Storyteller of the Year. Presented by Reba McEntire, Wilson spoke passionately about the power of storytelling in music. She shared anecdotes from her early days of writing about tequila and cigarettes, illustrating how personal experiences and narratives shape her songwriting. Wilson’s speech was a heartfelt tribute to the craft of storytelling and its ability to connect people across different walks of life. Her acknowledgment of Jesus and Variety in her journey highlighted the diverse influences that contribute to an artist’s success.
Quavo, one-third of the influential hip-hop group Migos, was honored as the Hitmaker’s Humanitarian of the Year. His work in preventing gun violence, particularly following the tragic death of his bandmate, was recognized as a significant contribution to social change. Quavo dedicated his award to those fighting for change and his late brother, emphasizing the intersection of music and activism. His speech was a poignant reminder of the responsibility artists hold in using their platforms to advocate for justice and positive societal impact.
The event was not only a celebration of individual achievements but also a reflection of the collective progress within the music industry. Republic Records was once again named Label of the Year, with co-founder Avery Lipman speaking about the label’s commitment to nurturing talent and driving success. Warner Music’s Tom Corson and Aaron Bay-Schuck were hailed as Executives of the Year, credited with revitalizing the label through a focus on artist development and fostering a supportive culture. These recognitions underscore the importance of leadership and vision in shaping the future of music.
In addition to celebrating established names, the brunch also shone a spotlight on emerging talent. Shaboozey and Benson Boone were recognized as Hitmakers’ Newcomers of the Year, representing the next generation of music innovators. Shaboozey expressed gratitude for music as a vehicle for creativity, reflecting on his humble beginnings and the journey that led him to this moment. Such acknowledgments serve as inspiration for aspiring artists, illustrating the potential for growth and success within the industry.
The event also previewed exciting new projects, such as the upcoming Amazon Prime video series ‘Celebrity Substitute.’ Hosted by Julian Shapiro-Barnum, the series aims to bring celebrities into public schools to highlight creativity in the classroom. Featuring guests like Cynthia Erivo, the show promises to merge entertainment with education, showcasing the transformative power of the arts. This initiative aligns with the broader theme of the brunch, which celebrates not only musical achievements but also the positive impact of creativity on society.
Variety’s Hitmakers Brunch was supported by numerous partners, including Wells Fargo and Spotify, demonstrating the collaborative nature of the event. These partnerships are essential in bringing together the diverse elements that make such gatherings possible, from honoring talent to fostering networking opportunities. The mood at the brunch was overwhelmingly positive, reflecting a successful year for artists and the music industry as a whole. As attendees mingled and shared stories, the sense of camaraderie and mutual respect was palpable, reinforcing the notion that music is a unifying force.
As the event concluded, it left attendees and honorees alike with a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration. The stories shared, the achievements celebrated, and the connections forged all contributed to a vibrant tapestry of creativity and collaboration. Variety’s Hitmakers Brunch serves as a testament to the power of music to inspire, challenge, and bring people together. As we look to the future, the event reminds us of the endless possibilities that await in the world of music, driven by the passion and innovation of those who dare to dream.