This weekend, Memphis sets the stage for a major celebration of hip-hop. The People’s Hip Hop Awards is going down Sunday, August 17 at the Cannon Center, capping off a four-day experience spotlighting music, culture, and community in the 901.
With performances from legends like Big Boogie, La Chat & Crunchy Black (Three 6 Mafia), Silkk the Shocker & Mia X, Young Buck, Trillville, Princess (Crime Mob), and East Side Boyz, this is the kind of energy that reminds everyone just how deep Memphis’ roots run in hip-hop.
What to Expect at the Main Event
📍 Cannon Center for the Performing Arts
📅 Sunday, August 17
🕡 Doors at 5:30PM | Show from 6:30PM–10:30PM
🎤 Hosted by Omar Gooding & Lil Rounds
🚗 Parking: 266 N. Front St. garage – advance reservations & kiosks available
Before the show kicks off, swing by the free pre-show at the former Hard Rock Café (2PM–4:30PM), then catch the red carpet rollout at 5PM outside the Cannon Center.
With 50+ celebrity guests expected, you’ll want to be there early.
The People’s Hip Hop Awards Experience Weekend
The awards are the grand finale of a packed weekend that offers plenty of ways to plug in:
Thursday, Aug. 14
🎧 Kool Downtown at Fat Tuesday | Starts at 1PM
Live DJs + community conversations focused on gun violence prevention.
Saturday, Aug. 16
⛳ Golf Tournament at Mirimichi | 9AM
Hosted by Commissioner Mickell Lowery.
🍳 Celebrity Brunch at SALT Bar & Bistro | 11AM–2PM
🎉 Welcome to the City Party | 813 Ridge Lake Blvd, 8PM–Midnight
A night of music, dinner, and cameos from weekend performers.
Sunday, Aug. 17
🍽 Celebrity Brunch at ESCO Memphis | 11AM–1PM
🎤 Awards Show at the Cannon Center | 6:30PM
📍 Free pre-show on Beale at the former Hard Rock Café | 2PM–4:30PM
Memphis Takes the Spotlight
Memphis has always been a force in hip-hop. This weekend celebrates that legacy and brings some of the genre’s biggest names to Downtown Memphis.
Backed by local leaders, creatives, and organizations who believe in the city’s cultural impact, The People’s Hip Hop Awards is a moment for Memphis to own its influence and share it with the world.
