The annual Hitmakers Brunch hosted by Variety brought together the brightest stars of the music industry for a day filled with laughter, admiration, and heartfelt stories of personal journeys. This glamorous event, held at Nya West in Hollywood and presented by AFEELA, showcased significant accomplishments in the music realm.
Charli XCX, honored as Hitmaker of the Year, captivated the audience with her remarks, referencing the iconic album by The Velvet Underground. She emphasized the subjective nature of a “hit” while acknowledging the album’s profound impact, despite its initially modest sales.
Amidst the celebration, Lana Del Rey admitted her earlier struggles with the Grammy nomination process, while Olivia Rodrigo humorously credited producer Dan Nigro with teaching her practical life skills like parallel parking. Lainey Wilson, recognized as Storyteller of the Year, reflected on her roots in a small Louisiana town, expressing gratitude for her journey.
The highlight of the day was perhaps Jack Antonoff, who received the Producer of the Decade award. He combined humor with thoughtful insights about the importance of nurturing relationships in the industry, citing his personal growth and connections that inspire creativity.
With newcomers like Shaboozey and Benson Boone also celebrated, the event reinforced that music continues to thrive through diverse voices and experiences, reminding everyone of the powerful stories that shape the industry.
Melodies of Success: Highlights from the Star-Studded Variety Hitmakers Brunch
The annual Hitmakers Brunch hosted by Variety has once again illuminated the exceptional talents and inspiring stories of the music industry’s trailblazers. Taking place at the luxurious Nya West in Hollywood, this glittering event celebrated the remarkable achievements of artists, producers, and songwriters alike, with AFEELA proudly presenting this prestigious gathering.
### Charli XCX: The New Face of Hit Making
This year’s **Hitmaker of the Year**, Charli XCX, delivered an inspiring speech that resonated deeply with those in attendance. By referencing the legendary Velvet Underground, she highlighted the subjective nature of what constitutes a “hit.” Her insights on musical success underscore that values can shift over time, emphasizing how early acclaim can occur long before a song reaches mainstream popularity.
### Lana Del Rey: Overcoming Grammy Nerves
In a candid moment, Lana Del Rey shared her previous apprehensions about the Grammy nomination process, showcasing the vulnerability that often accompanies success in the music industry. Her honesty served as a reminder that even the most luminous stars face challenges as they navigate their careers.
### Rising Stars and Prominent Recognitions
The event also celebrated a range of talented individuals, such as **Lainey Wilson**, who was awarded **Storyteller of the Year**. Wilson shared heartfelt reflections on her small-town roots in Louisiana, demonstrating how personal experiences shape artistic expression.
Additionally, **Olivia Rodrigo** brought a lighthearted touch, crediting producer **Dan Nigro** for teaching her life skills, such as the art of parallel parking, amidst their creative collaboration.
### Jack Antonoff’s Impact on Music Production
The spotlight shone brightly on **Jack Antonoff**, who received the prestigious **Producer of the Decade** award. His acceptance speech was a blend of humor and poignant reflections on the importance of forging meaningful relationships in the music world. Antonoff’s journey showcases how collaboration and personal growth fuel creativity, inspiring both artists and producers alike.
### Celebrating New Talent
Emerging artists like **Shaboozey** and **Benson Boone** were also recognized, highlighting the importance of diversity and fresh perspectives in the music industry. Their inclusion in this celebration reinforces the message that new voices are vital for the continued evolution of music.
### The Future of Music: Trends and Innovations
As the music landscape continually shifts, events like the Hitmakers Brunch not only celebrate achievements but also foreshadow industry trends. The increasing recognition of diverse musical expressions suggests a growing acceptance and appreciation of various genres and backgrounds in mainstream music.
### Conclusion
The Variety Hitmakers Brunch serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and talent that defines the music industry. As celebrated artists come together to share their stories, they inspire a new generation of musicians to embrace their journeys and contribute their unique voices to the ever-expanding tapestry of music.
For more information about the latest in the music industry, visit Variety.
