Leon Thomas & Friends Bring the House Down at Billboard's Electric R&B/Hip-Hop Concert

Leon Thomas, GELO, Ravyn Lenae & More Tear the Roof Off New York's Webster Hall During Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Concert New York, NY - On a crisp September evening, Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, Webster Hall in Manhattan was transformed into a vibrant hub of music and energy as Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players event took over the iconic venue. The highly anticipated free concert drew an enthusiastic crowd from all walks of life, with fans waiting patiently for hours to gain entry. The night kicked off with DJ Ohso setting the tone with his expertly curated playlist, seamlessly blending hip-hop bangers and sultry afro tunes that kept the audience engaged and energized. As the crowd waited eagerly for the main acts to take the stage, Leon Thomas, GELO, Ravyn Lenae, and other Billboard Rookies of the Year were honored as part of the evening's festivities. GELO, a rising star in the hip-hop scene, delivered an electrifying performance that left the audience breathless. "The energy was incredible," said GELO in an interview after the show. "I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to share my music with such a passionate and dedicated crowd." Ravyn Lenae, known for her soulful voice and genre-bending sound, also brought the house down with her high-energy performance. "It's always a thrill to perform in New York City," she said. "The energy of the crowd is infectious, and I feel so lucky to have had the chance to share my music with them." The event was not just about the music; it was also an opportunity for industry professionals to come together and celebrate the achievements of the past year. Anthony Tiffith, Executive Vice President at Top Dawg Entertainment, accepted the Executive of the Year award, expressing his gratitude to Billboard and the hip-hop community. Cardi B, who was honored as part of the evening's festivities, took to social media to express her excitement about the event. "I'm so proud to be a part of this amazing community," she tweeted. "The energy at Webster Hall tonight was electric!" As the night drew to a close, it was clear that Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players event had left an indelible mark on the city. The sold-out crowd, which included fans from all over the world, departed with big smiles and a renewed sense of excitement for the future of hip-hop. Background: Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players event is an annual celebration of the best in R&B and hip-hop music. This year's event was held at Webster Hall in Manhattan, with performances by some of the biggest names in the industry. Industry Insights: The success of this event highlights the growing popularity of R&B and hip-hop music globally. The genre-bending sound of artists like GELO and Ravyn Lenae is pushing the boundaries of what we consider "hip-hop" today. Cultural Impact: Events like Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players have a significant cultural impact, bringing together fans from all walks of life to celebrate their shared love of music. The energy at Webster Hall was palpable, with fans dancing and singing along to every song. As the hip-hop industry continues to evolve, events like this will play an increasingly important role in shaping its future. With its rich history and vibrant culture, New York City remains a hub for hip-hop enthusiasts from around the world. *Reporting by Billboard.*