Hip-Hop Greats Honored At Hip-Hop Inaugural Ball!

It went down in DC last night as hip-hop’s elite celebrated the re-election of President Barack Obama at the 2013 Hip-Hop Inaugural Ball.  Sponsored, in part, by the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network, the event was hosted by LaLa Anthony and Terrence J and paid special recognition to those who have “made their mark” in the community.

John Legend was among the honorees (he won the Humanitarian Award) and had this to say about hip-hop’s role in Obama’s re-election:

“I think hip-hop had a role in making sure we elected a black president in America because we made it so that black people were in people’s homes … through our music and through our culture.  I think it made Barack Obama and more people like him possible, so I’m really thankful for hip-hop and the role it plays in society.”

Also among those who were honored were hip-hop pioneers MC Lyte and Doug E. Fresh (Lifetime Achievement), Swizz Beats, Meek Mill, actress Rosario Dawson, and 2 Chainz.

2 Chainz, who was given the Street Soldier award for his work with ex-felons in the “Respect My Vote!” campaign had this to say about the honor:

“Doing my thing on the charts is one thing, but to be getting honored on another avenue, it just feels like a blessing.  I’m keeping my head leveled and staying humble.”

Congratulations to all the honorees from HipHollywood!  Check out photos from the red carpet below!

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[Source: AP Music]