Besa Gordon Honored at PDX Hip Hop Week Celebration

The 4th annual Hip Hop, Wine and Chill event, a cornerstone of PDX Hip Hop Week, was a resounding success, uniting a diverse blend of artists, entrepreneurs, and hip hop aficionados. Hosted by Leadertainment LLC, and held at Abbey Creek Winery, Oregon's pioneering Black-owned vineyard and winery in over half a century, the event underscored the harmonious fusion of music, wine, and community spirit.

Under the visionary leadership of Bertony Faustin, Abbey Creek Winery has become a unique haven where hip-hop and fine wine converge, creating a welcoming space for individuals to indulge in their passions. DJ O.G. ONE, a key organizer of the event and co-founder of PDX Hip Hop Week, emphasized the event's role in fostering connections: "Hip Hop, Wine and Chill, in particular, is an event that we highlight where we have business individuals...people from City Council... It gives a chance for us to gather in a way that is not always seen."

A significant part of the evening was the acknowledgment of individuals and businesses that have significantly enriched the hip hop community. Converge Media's Omari Salisbury and Besa Gordon were among the honorees, commended for their exceptional coverage of Portland's hip hop scene and unwavering support for Black-owned enterprises. DJ O.G. ONE expressed his heartfelt gratitude, remarking, "For them to come from the Seattle region and come down and show as much love, not just for Portland Hip Hop Week...it's amazing." Also recognized at the event were Cool Nutz, Tony Ozier, and Tanya Cerda.

Besa Gordon shared her thoughts on the event's significance: "Hip Hop, Wine and Chill is a testament to the power of collaboration and the unifying force of music. It's a space to celebrate our culture, uplift one another, and build bridges within the community."

DJ O.G. One gives Besa Gordon her PDX Hip Hop Award for Radio and TV Personality: Trailblazer

Cool Nutz, a celebrated NW music icon and a member of the Oregon Music Hall of Fame, echoed this sentiment, adding, "This event is a beautiful reflection of the diversity and creativity that defines Portland's hip hop scene. It's a reminder that we are stronger together and that our collective passion can create something truly special."

Omari Salisbury, founder of Converge Media, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, saying, "We are honored to be a part of this vibrant community and to use our platform to amplify the voices and stories that deserve to be heard throughout the Rose City and beyond,”

PDX Hip Hop Week, founded by Idris "STARCHILE" O'Ferrell and David "O.G.ONE" Jackson, is an annual celebration that embodies the vibrant spirit of Portland's hip hop culture. The week-long event, now in its 9th year, aims to "unify, amplify, educate, and elevate" the community through a diverse range of events, including workshops, rap battles, live performances, dance parties, and more. This year's highlights included Abbey Creek Winery's Hip Hop, Wine & Chill, Oaks Park Skating Rink's hip-hop-themed skate night, The Star Awards, and various artist showcases and DJ sets.

In the words of DJ OG ONE, "The most important thing about tonight is the showing of love." This sentiment encapsulates the essence of both Hip Hop Wine and Chill and PDX Hip Hop Week as a whole. By fostering a sense of community, unity, and mutual respect, these events continue to uplift and celebrate the positive facets of hip-hop culture, leaving an enduring impact on all who attend.

See more photos from the event below taken by Dominique Whittaker on behalf of Converge Media