SelectCon NYC: 50 Cent, Cam’ron, & Budden on Biz & Legacy
The atmosphere at UnitedMasters SelectCon NYC 2024 was nothing short of magnetic. Hosted at the avant-garde Zerospace venue in Brooklyn on October 24th, this year’s event masterfully blended the vibrancy of hip-hop culture with the entrepreneurial drive that’s reshaping today’s creative landscape. On the mic curating the vibes of the event was Complex host Speedy Morman and IHeart Radio’s Ivy Rivera. With an impressive turnout of over 1,000 artists, executives, and tastemakers, the event delivered on its promise to be a hub for transformative dialogue and industry-shaping insights. Steve Stoute Brings Out 50 Cent, Cam’Ron and Joe Budden At the heart of the experience was the “Mogul Talk” series, where Steve Stoute, CEO of UnitedMasters, brought together Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Cam’ron, and Joe Budden for a candid and unfiltered discussions. The three cultural heavyweights did not hold back as they shared stories of triumph, struggle, and reinvention. 50 Cent’s recount of his early days producing Power particularly resonated with the audience. The decision to accept just $17,000 per episode for a show that would eventually become a cultural phenomenon spoke volumes about the value of creative ownership and long-term vision. Jackson’s insistence on maintaining creative control over the series illustrated the importance of betting on oneself—a theme that reverberated throughout the day. Cam’ron, another hip-hop luminary, captivated the audience with updates about his sports show, It Is What It Is. The Harlem rapper’s unique take on sports commentary has clearly resonated, with the show surpassing industry staples like SportsCenter on YouTube and closing in on the viewership of First Take. His pride in carving out a new space in media echoed the entrepreneurial spirit that UnitedMasters seeks to nurture among independent artists and creators. In his segment, Joe Budden offered a dose of reality to aspiring podcasters. His advice to “stop begging and build your audience first” was rooted in his own journey from rapper to podcasting powerhouse. Budden’s insights, often peppered with tough love, underscored the importance of honing one’s craft and cultivating a following before expecting significant financial rewards. Beyond the headline speakers, the event was rich with opportunities for attendees to engage in meaningful ways. The Ally Lounge, a staple of SelectCon, once again provided mentorship sessions with industry leaders who shared strategies for navigating the business side of the creative economy. This year’s lineup of mentors included prominent figures from Ally, Roc Nation, and UnitedMasters, giving participants access to personalized advice on everything from brand building to financial wellness. SelectCon Activiations The experiential activations scattered throughout Zerospace created a dynamic atmosphere that blended education with entertainment. From live freestyle performances coordinated by 4Shooter Only to the eclectic mix of cuisine offered by vendors like Happy Bull Pizza, Ocky Way and Mizanne’s Kitchen, SelectCon ensured that every aspect of the event was immersive and thoughtfully curated. DJs Angel + Dren and DJ SpinKing kept the vibe energetic, transforming Zerospace into a pulsating celebration of artistry and entrepreneurship. Rising Stars Cleotrapa, Fergie Baby and Billy B also took the stage for exciting performances to amplify the day. 50 Cent and Cam’Ron Reconnect Backstage At SelectCon The reunion between 50 Cent and Cam’ron, who shared a legendary backstage embrace, was a highlight that underscored the event’s theme of reconciliation and progress. It marked a symbolic moment where past rivalries gave way to mutual respect, demonstrating that even in an industry often marred by competition, there is room for unity and growth. SelectCon NYC 2024 didn’t just meet expectations; it exceeded them. The event succeeded in bringing together a diverse community of creatives and entrepreneurs, fostering a spirit of collaboration and forward-thinking. By continuing to provide a platform where culture, business, and artistry intersect, SelectCon remains a crucial force in shaping the future of the creative economy. This year’s edition not only reflected the evolving nature of music and entrepreneurship but also set a new benchmark for what cultural conferences can achieve. Photos Courtesy Of Sari G @shotbysarig