The Evolution of A&R in Hip Hop
Our power packed panelists have not only worked with some of the biggest artists in music like Jay-Z, Rihanna and J Cole but they are also responsible for helping launch the next generation of stars including Logic, Bryson Tiller and Jhené Aiko among others. Panelists will share keys to success in finding talent and building careers, revealing behind the scenes stories and lessons learned along the way. They will also give insight into how the digital space has shaped the modern role of an A&R.
The panel will be moderated by Hard Knock Tv’s Nick Huff Barili
Presenters
Ibrahim "IB" Hamad
Pres & Artist Mgmt
Dreamville

Lenny Santiago
Roc Nation
"Lenny S is a veteran music business executive that has helped to shape modern hip-hop culture as we know it. Born and raised in the Bronx, the birthplace of hip-hop, Lenny got his start in the mus...
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Nick Huff
Dir/Host
Hard Knock TV
Nick Huff Barili is a journalist, television director, radio producer, and the founder of the premier multi-platform video production and entertainment company, Hard Knock TV. Launching HARD KNOCK...
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Noah Preston
VP/A&R
Def Jam Recordings
Noah Preston is a young executive who works toward empowering true creativity and seeks to protect the integrity of music culture. Noah began his career in music as an intern for Def Jam’s radio pr...
Show the restOmar Grant
A&R
Roc Nation

Tunji Balogun
Sr Dir A&R
RCA Records
Tunji Balogun began his career as a marketing intern at Warner Bros. Records, where he was hired as an assistant after graduating from Pomona College in 2004. At WBR, he worked on marketing campaig...
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