By: Lennard James
The highly anticipated “Stomp the City” ICONIC Awards, set to take place on November 3, 2024, at the Cannon Center for the Performing Arts in Memphis, Tennessee, will be honoring the life, music, and legacy of Young Dolph, the Memphis-born rapper, entrepreneur, and community activist. The celebration aims to acknowledge his lasting impact on the music industry and his contributions to the Memphis community, ensuring his influence continues to inspire future generations.
Young Dolph, whose real name was Adolph Thornton Jr., rose to fame with his raw and honest lyrics, telling stories of his experiences growing up in South Memphis. Known for songs like “Preach,” “100 Shots,” and “Major,” he quickly gained a reputation for being unapologetically authentic. His music resonated with listeners around the world and brought Memphis’ unique hip-hop flavor to the forefront. Beyond his music, Dolph’s commitment to self-reliance, independence, and uplifting his community have made him a lasting icon in Memphis and beyond.
Photo Courtesy: Young Dolph
The ICONIC Awards is a distinguished event focused on celebrating individuals and organizations who make significant contributions to their communities, both locally and nationally. By honoring Young Dolph, the event organizers seek to recognize his unique influence on Memphis’ cultural landscape and his role as a trailblazer in the music industry. This tribute acknowledges his musical accomplishments and celebrates his work as an entrepreneur, mentor, and community advocate.
Young Dolph’s story is one of resilience and determination. Overcoming the struggles of his upbringing, he rose through the music industry ranks as an independent artist, an accomplishment that remains rare. Dolph’s unwavering commitment to remaining independent set him apart in an industry often dominated by major labels, making him an inspiration to artists striving for autonomy. His label, Paper Route Empire, exemplifies his ethos of empowerment, providing a platform for emerging artists and encouraging them to control their creative paths. This entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to uplifting others have left a lasting mark, resonating especially in the hip-hop community.
In addition to his accomplishments in music and business, Young Dolph was known for his philanthropy and community involvement. He frequently gave back to Memphis, contributing to local schools and organizations, and even provided scholarships for young people seeking to pursue higher education. Following his untimely death in 2021, fans and community members came together to share stories of how he positively impacted their lives and championed the growth and development of South Memphis. By establishing connections with his fans and uplifting those around him, Dolph demonstrated a profound sense of responsibility to his community.
As part of the ceremony, the “Stomp the City” ICONIC Awards will feature a tribute segment dedicated to Young Dolph. This will include musical performances, visual tributes, and speeches from individuals close to him who have witnessed his journey firsthand. The tribute is expected to be a powerful moment, capturing Dolph’s legacy as both a musician and a symbol of resilience for Memphis and beyond. Through this honor, the awards aim to amplify his message of self-determination and remind attendees of his lasting influence on the music industry and his community.
Photo Courtesy: www.stompthecityiconicawards.com / Michael Dockery
The “Stomp the City” ICONIC Awards, beyond honoring Young Dolph, serves as a call to action against the rising gun violence that has plagued Memphis and other cities nationwide. The event organizers hope that by celebrating individuals like Dolph, they can inspire a movement toward positive change and reduce the senseless violence that has taken the lives of too many talented individuals.
Michael Dockery, founder of the ICONIC Awards, has been a strong advocate for changing gun laws in Tennessee. With this year’s awards, he hopes to use Dolph’s story as a powerful reminder of the impact of violence and the need for reform. “Young Dolph’s legacy is one of empowerment, resilience, and giving back. Our goal is to honor him and carry forward his message and inspire positive change,” Dockery said.
Tickets for the “Stomp the City” ICONIC Awards are now available, with the ceremony promising to be a memorable evening celebrating not just artistic achievement but also the commitment to community and social responsibility. This year’s event will stand as a testament to Young Dolph’s enduring legacy, ensuring his story inspires, uplifts, and encourages others to make a difference.
For more information on attending the ICONIC Awards or to learn more about the tribute to Young Dolph, visit the official event website or contact the event organizers directly. For more information, visit Home – Stomp The City Iconic Awards.
Published by: Annie P.
