BIOS
BUSINESS & LEGAL PANEL
SVP BUSINESS AND STRATEGY, UNIVERSAL (NASHVILLE)/ TRIPPIE REDD'S MANAGER
Charlene Bryant is a force to be reckoned with within the music industry. In addition to leading the Business Development & Strategy team for Universal Music Group Nashville, Bryant oversees the newly created Silver Wings Records, a distribution and independent artist services arm of UMG Nashville. With a wealth of experience and track record of success spanning across Country, Hip-Hop and Christian music, Bryant brings business acumen, results-oriented strategies, and value for authentic industry relationships. A Canton, Ohio native and Belmont graduate, Bryant joined UMG Nashville after five years at the helm of artist management company, Riveter Management, which she founded in 2018. She was named one of Billboard’s Hip-Hop and R&B Power Players in 2020 and 2021, was part of CMT and mtheory’s inaugural Equal Access Development Program, and recognized with Nashville Business Journal’s Women in Music City Award in 2018 and 2019.
Lisa E. Davis is a prominent figure in the entertainment law sector, serving as a partner and Co-Chair of the Entertainment Group at Frankfurt Kurnit Klein & Selz. Her extensive career is marked by her roles on the firm’s Policy Committee and as Co-Chair of its Diversity Committee. Davis has represented a wide range of clients within the film, television, publishing, music, theater, and sports industries, showcasing her diverse expertise and commitment to the creative community
Born in Queens, New York, Davis’s background is as vibrant as her career. Her early life was influenced by her mother, a retired educator, and her father, a jazz musician. This perhaps sowed the seeds of her future career, blending creative industries with legal practice.
Partner and Co-Chair of the Entertainment Group at Frankfurt Kurnit Klein & Selz
After graduating from New Rochelle High School in 1977, she went on to earn her B.A. degree from Harvard University in 1981, followed by a J.D. degree from New York University School of Law in 1985.
Davis’s career milestones are not only a testament to her legal acumen but also her leadership in advocating for diversity and inclusion within the legal profession and beyond. She has been involved in numerous panels and presentations aimed at addressing issues such as bias, the creation of inclusive workplaces for women of color, and the #MeToo movement within the entertainment industry.
In recognition of her contributions, Davis has been cited in notable publications including Elle magazine, The New York Times, and Black Enterprise magazine, where she has been acknowledged as one of America’s top black lawyers and one of the top 50 Power Brokers in entertainment. Her membership in the New York City Bar, the Black Entertainment and Sports Lawyers Association, and the National Bar Association underscores her influence and commitment to her field.
Davis’s dedication to her profession and her advocacy for diversity and ethical practices within the entertainment industry have made her a respected voice and leader. Her work has not only impacted her clients but has also paved the way for more inclusive practices within the legal and entertainment sectors.
Vice President, Business & Legal Affairs - Music, Roc Nation
In 2018, Randy was named Vice President of Business Affairs, Creative & Licensing at BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.), where he lead a team across BMI’s Creative and Licensing divisions, playing a crucial role in negotiating major industry licenses and working closely with BMI’s Creative teams on songwriter and composer affiliations. McMillan’s career spans roles at Pandora Media as Senior Corporate Counsel, founder and President of McMillan Law, PLLC, and positions at Universal Music Group/Def Jam Records and RCA Music Group/BMG Entertainment. His work involved close collaborations with industry relations, content creation and licensing teams, and he has a strong expertise in intellectual property rights and music licensing.
McMillan holds a JD from Boston College Law School and a BA from Cornell University. His upbringing in Brooklyn and journey through higher education at Cornell and Boston College Law School instilled in him a deep understanding of the importance of adapting, effectively communicating, and navigating different worlds. This background has been vital in his career, allowing him to connect with a wide range of individuals within the music industry, from corporate CFOs to managers of newly successful artists. McMillan’s approach to business and negotiation emphasizes the importance of understanding others’ perspectives to find common ground. He values versatility and adaptability, considering them crucial for success in the rapidly evolving music business.
Lanre Gaba has made a significant impact in the music industry through her role at Atlantic Records, where she serves as Co-President of Black Music. Celebrating her 20th anniversary with the company, Gaba has served in various capacities, including A&R Administration, Head of Urban A&R Operations, and General Manager of Urban A&R, before taking on her current role. She works alongside Mike Kyser and reports to Atlantic’s Chairman & CEO Craig Kallman and Chairman & COO Julie Greenwald.
Gaba is recognized for her dedication, creativity, and experience, contributing to her reputation as one of the most admired executives in the music business. Her work ethic and deep knowledge of the industry have been instrumental in developing artists and leading Atlantic’s Black Music department alongside Kyse.
CO-PRES BLACK MUSIC, ATLANTIC RECORDS
Gaba’s career at Atlantic has been marked by her involvement in A&R, marketing, strategic planning, finance, and studio operations, working with notable artists such as Cardi B, Roddy Ricch, Lil Uzi Vert, Burna Boy, and more. She was named RIAA Executive of the Year in 2019 and serves on the advisory board of the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music and mentor organization Gyrl Wonder.
In an interview with XXL, Gaba emphasized the importance of the relationship between A&R and marketing in the development of artists, focusing on strategic growth and the necessity of maintaining continuous effort to avoid negatively impacting an artist’s career. She also highlighted the significance of earning an artist’s trust through respect and the importance of building strong relationships with both artists and their teams. Gaba’s approach includes being hands-on, spending time with artists beyond professional obligations to understand them as individuals.
Gaba’s work ethic and strategic approach to artist development, coupled with her commitment to building trusting relationships, illustrate her influential role in shaping the careers of numerous artists within the Atlantic Records roster and the broader music industry.
Transactional Law Clinics Of Harvard Law School/Founding Faculty Director of Recording Artists Project
Brian Price is a Clinical Professor of Law at Harvard Law School and the Director of the law school’s Transactional Law Clinics, where he teaches transactional law and supervises the legal practice of law students handling entertainment, business, non-profit, community economic development and real estate legal matters. Professor Price also serves as faculty advisor of the Harvard Law Entrepreneurship Project, a student practice organization assisting start-up businesses, and was the founding faculty director of Harvard Law School’s Recording Artist Project, a music law practice and student organization. In his outside practice, Attorney Price represents entertainment industry clients (including several Grammy winners) consisting of artists, producers, songwriters, indie labels, multi-media and marketing firms, as well as other business clients.
Formerly, Professor Price was the Director of the Harvard Law School WilmerHale Legal Services Center, a comprehensive civil law service provider and clinical placement. Prior to joining Harvard Law School, Professor Price served as General Counsel and Senior Director of Certification and Enforcement at the State Office of Minority and Women Business Assistance within the Massachusetts Department of Economic Development; was a member of the legal department of Liberty Mutual Insurance Company; and operated his own community-based law practice specializing in entertainment and business law. Professor Price is a graduate of Princeton University and University of Pennsylvania Law School.
MODERATOR
Ifeoma (Ify) White-Thorpe is a J.D. candidate at Harvard Law School where she currently serves as the President of the Recording Artists Project at Harvard Law School, which is a student practice organization that conducts Pro Bono work for entertainment clients under the supervision of a licensed attorney. Ify also serves as the CEO and founder of KOLO Publishing, a publishing company dedicated to developing and publishing works written by Black women and girls. Ify served as a Business and Legal Affairs Emerging Talent Associate at Atlantic Records and as a Legal Resident at Roc Nation in 2023. In 2019, Ify was recruited by the CMO of Converse, Inc. to help conceive and spearhead the Converse All Stars Series– an international platform and community providing mentorship and creative opportunities for artists and activists.
President, The Recording Artists Project at Harvard Law
Ify served as a co-chair on the Steering Committee for the Converse All Stars Series in 2020 and as a Marketing Fellow at Converse from 2019 to 2021. In 2018, a year after being admitted into all Ivy League schools and Stanford, she was recognized by BET as one of the “Great 28” future force African Americans in honor of Black History Month. In 2015, she won the National SELMA Essay and Speech competition hosted by Paramount Pictures. Her award-winning speech and essay on civil rights have been on display in the National Liberty Museum since 2015. In addition to her Harvard Law education, Ify holds degrees from Harvard College in Government and Chemistry.
MEDIA & CULTURE PANEL
DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF R&B/HIPHOP, BILLBOARD
After writing for publications such as XXL, Complex, DJ Booth, and HipHopDX, Carl Lamarre became Billboard’s Hip-Hop Editor in 2017. Since his arrival, Lamarre has emerged as a leading face in the rap community with his robust knowledge, thoughtful takes, and powerful interviews with Kendrick Lamar, Nas, 50 Cent, Travis Scott, Lil Wayne, Future, and more. Now serving as Billboard’s Deputy Director of R&B / Hip-Hop, his expansive repertoire goes beyond writing and editing, as he has bloomed into a successful host for The Debut Live — a show he co-founded alongside Dria Baum — Audiomack’s Beyond the Beat and Own The Label series, The Grammy Museum’s Grammy Conversations, and Amazon Music’s Group Thread series. He also co-hosted Sirius XM’s Billboard Live and appeared on Good Morning America, CBS News, Inside Edition, Hot 97, and more.
Jordan Rose is a multimedia journalist, on-air host, and Sr. Editorial Content Producer, Music at Complex Networks. What drives him is the power of storytelling and the countless ways they can be told in a new and evolving media landscape
SR. EDITORIAL CONTENT PRODUCER, MUSIC COMPLEX
EDITOR IN CHIEF OF XXL MAGAZINE
Vanessa Satten has held the title of Editor-in-Chief at XXL Magazine since 2009, significantly contributing to the brand becoming one of the most respected hip-hop magazines and websites globally. Satten’s undeniable expertise, passion for hip-hop culture, and widespread influence have garnered her unprecedented respect and success at XXL, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary.
Born and raised in New York, Satten always loved hip-hop growing up. She discovered her knack for journalism as an intern at XXL in 1998 and would eventually work her way up the ranks, ultimately overseeing the print publication and website XXLMag.com.
Never afraid of pushing the envelope within hip-hop culture, Satten was a founder of XXL’s now-famous annual Freshman Class. Since the annual platform’s inception 15 years ago, Satten has been at the helm, working with the staff to select, interview and produce the classes and content. The XXL Freshman Class has helped launch notable careers for many of its members, including Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, Megan Thee Stallion, Wiz Khalifa, Big Sean, Chance The Rapper, 21 Savage, and many more. Additionally, Satten has worked with or interviewed the biggest names in hip-hop, including Eminem, 50 Cent, Lil Wayne, Dr. Dre, Kanye West, Drake, Nicki Minaj, Snoop Dogg, Cardi B and Travis Scott, to name a few.
Satten’s role in documenting careers for discovered and undiscovered talent is proof of her influential reach beyond XXL. Her genuine love for hip-hop and her contagious passion for contributing to journalism and the culture’s growth helped set her apart. Respected by everyone from A-list artists and producers to high-level executives and label heads, Satten has humbly raised the bar for hip-hop media outlets.
Outside of XXL, Satten was an Executive Producer for the WeTV show Hip-Hop Homicides and is working on several other projects. She lives in New Jersey with her daughter Zasha and three dogs.
Datwon Thomas, a respected figure in the media and entertainment industry, is known for his significant contributions as the Editor-in-Chief of Vibe Magazine for over a decade. Transitioning into a new role, he now serves as Executive Producer, Talent for Dick Clark Productions while maintaining his position as Vibe’s Editor-at-Large and VP of Culture and Media for Penske Media Corp. Thomas’s deep expertise in hip-hop and R&B, along with his vast industry connections, position him to influence the future vision of Dick Clark Productions’ portfolio, continuing his legacy as a key figure in music and entertainment
FORMER EDITOR IN CHIEF OF VIBE MAGAZINE
MODERATOR
Sandra Imbert, a Boston native, has always had a passion for the entertainment industry. She pursued her interest by earning a degree in Entertainment Management & Financial Operations, and now works as the Newsroom Operation Manager at Boston Globe Media Partners, one of the oldest newspapers in the business. Her experience working with some of the world’s top journalists has inspired her to launch her own show, EverythingGoes Visual Podcast.
A&R PANEL
Naim McNair has had a significant career in the music industry before becoming the EVP of A&R at Def Jam Recordings, a position announced in early 2020. His extensive experience spans over two decades, working with some of the industry’s top artists, producers, and labels, including Top Dawg, Future, Tommy Brown, Ariana Grande, and Sage the Gemini. Before joining Def Jam, McNair served in similar high-profile A&R roles at Universal Music Group, Interscope, Geffen A&M, and Republic Records, as well as holding positions at MCA Records and Warner Bros. Records. He also worked as a consultant for Epic Records and Top Dawg Entertainment. McNair’s career is characterized by his collaboration with influential figures in the music industry and his ability to identify and develop talent.
EVP A&R, DEF JAM RECORDS
Moreover, McNair’s role and influence extend beyond just scouting and developing musical talent; he’s actively involved in industry initiatives aimed at fostering the next generation of music executives and artists.
A&R Coordinator, Atlantic Records
Bailey Lawson is currently serving as an A&R at Atlantic Records. In this role, she is responsible for talent scouting and overseeing the artistic development of recording artists and songwriters. She also coordinates the recording process, helps with song selection, and connects artists with the right producers and songwriters to ensure that their music aligns with both the artists’ vision and the label’s goals. As an A&R she works closely with marketing, promotion, and other departments to support the artist’s career development and commercial success
Steven Carless, also known as “Steve-O,” is a renowned American music executive and talent manager, celebrated for his work with Nipsey Hussle. Born in Roselle, New Jersey, Carless has made significant contributions to the music industry, holding senior positions at several major labels including Republic Records, Def Jam Recordings, and Warner Records. His career is highlighted by his achievements in A&R, guiding the careers of artists like Jeezy, YG, Dave East, and Polo G, along with Grammy nominations with Nipsey Hussle. In December 2021, Carless took on the role of President of A&R at Warner Records.
PRESIDENT, WARNER RECORDS A&R
MODERATOR
Jazz Brooks is a dynamic media personality out of Boston, MA. Her passion for music and media stemmed from the closest connections in her life, her Grandmother and Mother. Jazz has over ten years of media production experience, with her start on WRBB 104.9 FM. Since that time, Jazz has served as a host as well as managed and produced multiple radio shows and podcasts in the Boston area including #CTTC Radio Show, BNF Podcast, and Sundays Are For Soul.
Currently, Jazz is hosting The Pulse Countdown on Spark FM and building her credentials as an accredited media personality. Some of her most prominent interviews include Ty Dolla $ign, Arin Ray, and most recently, R&B great, Eric Bellinger. Be on the lookout for more interviews and content coming soon!
TALENT SHOWCASE
First generation Nigerian rap artist Big Sosa, was raised in Boston, Massachusetts. She is heavily influenced by artists like Biggie Smalls and Lauren Hill and has created a captivating sound that has Boston in a frenzy.
SeeFour is a professional recording/performance artist from Boston, Massachusetts. SeeFour began his musical career at 14 years old writing, producing, singing, and rapping his own records.
He gained traction in the city by competing and winning in music competitions against his much older contemporaries and still making it to class in the morning.
As he has grown as a man and creative, so has his sound. SeeFour consistently infuses Hip Hop , R&B, and Jazz, melodic undertones while paying homage to the experiences and time periods that have inspired him. Now at 23, his resume continues to grow, having put on amazing shows on over 200+ stages across the United States and has just released his debut album “Spirit Of A Warrior” via PUTINWORK Records.
Bizzy Savant is a Harvard graduate and Artist from Maryland. Known for his creativity, versatility, and punchline abilities, he is in the conversation as one of the top upcoming artist.
After multiple viral projects, totaling over 10M views, Bizzy realized the impact he can have on the world. He aims to inspire others to find their purpose and passion, and to invest in themselves. He went from a student-athlete to a #StudentOfTheGame… Coming soon.
Cashus Knight is a Massachusetts artist best known for his anthemic catalog and commanding stage presence.
Acting as his own producer, Cashus pushes the envelope of modern trap music, creating a sound that is as unique as it is catchy. Since his 2020 album “So It Goes”, Cashus has continued to earn the belief of his peers with hard-hitting records and production credits.
Davy Snatch has been known to bridge the worlds of creativity and flair through his music since 2019. Over the course of the last five years, his innovative style constantly comes as a surprise to many.
Davy easily marbles through unique cadences and an authentic flow. The expressiveness of his art does nothing less than leave the audience marveled, engaged and craving more.
Hailing from South Orange, New Jersey, Baby Teo emerges as a dynamic force in the rap scene, blending raw authenticity with introspective and melodic lyricism.
Born and raised in the heart of the Garden State, Baby Teo’s music serves as a testament to his journey, reflecting the trials and triumphs of his life experiences on a journey to live the life he wants for himself.With two electrifying albums under his belt, Baby Teo has carved his own path in the industry. His debut album, “Bali and Heartbreak,” showcases his unique storytelling ability, delving into themes of love, trust, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. Through intricate wordplay and infectious beats, Baby Teo invites listeners into his world, where every track is a testament to the power of self-expression.Following the success of Bali and Heartbreak,” Baby Teo further solidified his place in the rap landscape in November 2023 with his sophomore album, “Outsiders .” For this project Baby Teo explores the complexities of love, loss, and personal growth, drawing from his own experiences as a person who enjoys the social atmosphere of going outside but in the same breath feels like an outsider in his own circles. From upbeat anthems to soul-stirring ballads, “Outsiders” encapsulates the myriad emotions that define the human experience. Beyond his musical prowess, Baby Teo’s impact extends far beyond the studio walls. He remains deeply connected to his community, using his platform to uplift and inspire the next generation of artists and dreamers. With his unwavering dedication to his craft and commitment to authenticity, Baby Teo continues redefining the boundaries of hip-hop, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and cementing his legacy as one of South Orange’s finest exports
HOSTED BY
Founded in 2020 by Stephen Lafume and Cameron Teleau Thrill is a community of artists and creative professionals who collaborate, create art, and share positive experiences/ best practices. Grounded in a philosophy rooted in free will Thrill applauds the choice artists make every day to be creative despite life’s obstacles.
Stephen Lafume aka Yuhraeus, is an advocate for community well-being and creative entrepreneurship, and has a multifaceted background that reflects a commitment to social impact and individual expression. Born and raised in Boston in a large Haitian family, Stephen learned the value of perseverance, interdependence, and joy from a young age. Whether through organizing community events or spearheading initiatives for social change, Stephen seeks to make a lasting impact by blending creativity with purpose.
Cameron Teleau is a talented, multimedia visual artist from Boston Massachusetts. At 25 year-olds he has creatively directed, produced, and led countless projects for artists across the region. Often described by clients and friends as bold and vibrant his style reflects his personality.
2024 HITMAKER AWARD
21 Savage is the walking definition of a hitmaker. Born Shéyaa Bin Abraham-Joseph, rapper 21 Savage emerged in the Atlanta underground music scene in 2013. He quickly gained recognition for his penmanship, artistry, and unique flow. His popularity has increasingly grown over the years as a result of consistent releases, collaborations, visuals, and of course, excellent music. In 2017, 21 Savage released his debut studio album, “Issa Album,” which debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 and featured the top twenty song “Bank Account.” His collaborative endeavors continued, notably marked by his feature on Post Malone’s “Rockstar,” which became his first #1 single. The year 2018 saw the release of his second studio album, “I Am > I Was.”
This album featured several high-profile artists, including Travis Scott, Childish Gambino, and Post Malone; the album debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200, marking his first #1 album. 21 Savage made a significant contribution to the world of music in 2020 with his sequel to “Savage Mode,” “Savage Mode II,” in collaboration with artist Metro Boomin. The album peaked at number one on the Billboard 200 and included two top-ten singles. In 2022, he made a guest appearance on Drake’s single “Jimmy Cooks,” which debuted at number one on the Hot 100. Shortly after, 21 Savage and Drake released a collaborative studio album titled “Her Loss.” 21 Savage’s third album, “American Dream,” was released in January 2024 and became his fourth consecutive chart-topping project. Well-known for his philanthropic efforts, 21 Savage has been a strong advocate for financial literacy in children. In accordance with this, he launched the 21 Savage Bank Account Campaign in 2018– a program aimed at teaching financial management skills to school aged children. He also hosts the annual “Issa Back to School Drive”. This initiative provides free haircuts, hairstyles, supplies, and school uniforms to members of the Atlanta community. Over the years, 21 Savage has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the music industry. In 2020, his single “A Lot,” featuring J.Cole, won Best Rap Song at the 62nd Grammy Awards. His work on the collaborative album “Her Loss” with Drake saw them both receive awards at the 2023 BET Hip Hop Awards. In the same year, he was nominated for various awards at the Billboard Music Awards, and his collaboration with Burna Boy on the remix of “Sittin’ on Top of the World” garnered an additional Grammy nomination. The Recording Artists Project at Harvard Law School and PUTINWORK are proud to announce 21 Savage as the recipient of the 2024 HITMAKER of the Year Award! This award will be presented to 21 Savage on March 30th, 2024 at the annual Hitmakers Symposium.
MODERATORS
President, The Recording Artists Project at Harvard Law
