LL COOL J rocked the bell at Nasdaq, literally.
In a significant stride forward for the cultural economy, LL COOL J and his Rock The Bells team rang the Nasdaq opening bell on Aug. 3, marking Hip-Hop's 50th anniversary. In line with Nasdaq's ongoing commitment to foster opportunities at the nexus of culture and future business, the ceremony represented a historic moment for Hip-Hop. Rock The Bells became the first company, fully owned and operated by the stewards of the Culture, to initiate the day's trading on Nasdaq, demonstrating the genre's influential journey and its growing intersection with the world of finance.
The ceremony was themed around Investing in Global Hip-Hop Culture and in addition to LL COOL J, Roxanne Shanté, Papoose, Cool V, legendary photographer Ernie Paniccioli, DJ Scratch, Legendary Damon, and June Ambrose were all in attendance for the historic event.
"We're here at Nasdaq to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop with Rock The Bells. Hip-Hop, this global cultural phenomenon, has touched lives and transcended boundaries. It's left its mark on industries far and wide, and that's why we created Rock The Bells, a space and a platform that pay homage to the icons and partners who have propelled this culture forward," LL said in his speech prior to "rocking" the bell, with a sparkling, jewel-encrusted boombox front and center as he spoke.
"As we celebrate the past 50 years, we're also building the future of Hip-Hop for the next 50 years and beyond. And the brilliance of this future lies in the minds gathered here today — the creators, the investors, the businesses and brands. Driving Hip-Hop's economic impact, NASDAQ, our partner in this celebration, understands the power of Hip-Hop and it's potential to create more equitable opportunities. With their support, we're opening the doors to endless economic opportunities for the culture."