Honoring the Legacy of Chip Hooper: Recognizing Rising Stars in the Music Industry

The music industry has long been a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, where talent, dedication, and innovation are the keys to success. In this spirit, Billboard is proud to announce the Chip Hooper Award, a prestigious honor that celebrates the legacy of a true industry pioneer and the next generation of leaders who are shaping the future of the music business.

Empowering the Next Generation of Music Executives

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Chip Hooper

The Chip Hooper Award is named in honor of the legendary talent agent, father, and photographer who played a pivotal role in building the Paradigm talent agency. Hooper's impact on the industry was profound, as he helped guide the careers of countless artists and left an indelible mark on the music world. Tragically, Hooper passed away in 2016 after a courageous battle with cancer, but his legacy lives on through this prestigious award.

Recognizing Rising Stars in Artist Representation, Management, and Concert Promotion

The Chip Hooper Award is presented annually to a young, rising star who works as an executive in artist representation, management, or concert promotion. This award is a testament to Hooper's commitment to nurturing and empowering the next generation of industry leaders. The award is the result of a collaboration between Billboard, Wasserman Music (the company that purchased Paradigm in 2021), and Hooper's own children, Valerie and Max Hooper, who have played a crucial role in ensuring that their father's legacy is honored and celebrated.

Inaugural and Past Recipients: Celebrating Exceptional Talent and Dedication

The inaugural Chip Hooper Award was presented in 2018 to Kelly Stebalsky of Live Nation, who first met Hooper at an industry conference and later left her job at William Morris in New York to work with him, representing acts like Phish and Dave Matthews Band. In 2019, the award was presented to Sara Bollwinkel, previously with Paradigm and now a senior vice president at Wasserman Music.

The 2023 Chip Hooper Award: Nominations Now Open

The Chip Hooper Award will be presented for the third time at this year's Billboard Live Music Awards, scheduled to take place on November 14th at the One Hotel in West Hollywood. Nominations for the award are now open, and industry professionals are encouraged to submit their nominations by the deadline of Friday, October 18th at 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET.

Criteria and Nomination Process: Recognizing the Next Generation of Leaders

While there is no age cap for the Chip Hooper Award, the focus is on recognizing young professionals who are on the rise in the industry. To nominate someone, you can email their name, title, and company, along with a brief description of why they deserve the honor and a list of their accomplishments in the last 18 months, to dave.brooks@billboard.com.

The Significance of the Chip Hooper Award: Inspiring the Future of the Music Industry

The Chip Hooper Award is more than just a recognition of individual achievement; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of a true industry icon and a celebration of the bright future of the music business. By honoring the next generation of leaders, the award serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring professionals, encouraging them to follow in the footsteps of Chip Hooper and leave their own indelible mark on the industry.