Featuring
Saluting Jaz-O
Known to the culture as “The Originator,” Jaz-O is a pioneering rapper and producer whose influence runs deep in hip-hop history. Active since the late 1980s, Jaz-O helped redefine lyrical skill by introducing rapid-fire double-time and triple-time flows at a time when breath control, cadence, and technical precision became defining measures of MC excellence. His style was not just fast—it was intentional, precise, and ahead of its time.
Beyond the microphone, Jaz-O’s legacy is firmly cemented through his role as an early mentor and collaborator to Jay-Z, appearing on Jay-Z’s earliest recordings and helping open doors at the very start of a historic career. Their Brooklyn-rooted partnership remains one of hip-hop’s most talked-about origin stories.
On February 26, Jaz-O will receive the FTF Award (From The Fans), a salute rooted in authenticity and appreciation from the people who matter most.
Saluting Smif-N-Wessun
One of Brooklyn’s most respected and foundational hip-hop duos, Smif-N-Wessun have represented raw lyricism, street authenticity, and uncompromising East Coast sound since the early 1990s. As core members of the legendary Boot Camp Clik, the duo helped define the gritty underground movement that reshaped New York hip-hop during one of its most competitive eras.
Breaking onto the scene with early appearances on Black Moon’s Enta Da Stage, Smif-N-Wessun quickly made their presence felt with the breakout single “Bucktown,” an underground anthem that became a defining record of 1990s hardcore hip-hop. Their 1995 debut album Dah Shinin’ is widely regarded as a classic, peaking on the Billboard 200 and reaching the Top 5 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, while producing standout records such as “Wrekonize,” “Sound Bwoy Bureill,” and “Wontime.”
Across multiple eras and releases—including work under the Cocoa Brovaz name, key Boot Camp Clik collaborations, and acclaimed projects such as Reloaded, Monumental (produced by Pete Rock), and their latest project Infinity—Smif-N-Wessun have remained culturally relevant while staying true to their core sound.
On February 26, Smif-N-Wessun will be saluted with the FTF Award (From The Fans) alongside Jaz-O, marking a powerful salute to Brooklyn’s enduring influence on hip-hop and the architects who built its foundation.
F.T.F. AWARD
(From The Fans Award)
The FTF Award salutes the people who shaped music culture—honoring their life, impact, and legacy directly from the fans. Rooted in authenticity rather than industry politics, the FTF Award is a fan-powered recognition that places cultural influence, longevity, and community respect at the forefront.
Saluting "POC-FU" of the Legendary Fu-Schnickens
Fu-Schnickens Honored with 'From the Fans' Award This Thursday, January 13th in Brooklyn
POC Fu, founding member of Fu-Schnickens, will accept the award on behalf of the group and deliver a special live performance medley of classic hits and new music, making this a rare and meaningful moment for fans of golden-era hip-hop.
Also Marley Legacy will be in the building! Hymn Marley will bless the stage with a special performance!
In addition to the Fu-Schnickens tribute, the night will feature performances by independent and up-and-coming artists, creating a powerful, multi-generational hip-hop experience. The event is free and open to the public.
