Chaka Zulu Honored with Rico Wade Game Changer Award at Birthday Bash

Legendary music executive and co-founder of Disturbing Tha Peace, Chaka Zulu, was celebrated in grand fashion at Hot 107.9's Birthday Bash, where he received the prestigious Rico Wade Game Changer Award. Named for pioneering Atlanta songwriter and producer Rico Wade (who passed away in 2024), the award recognizes individuals who have significantly shaped Atlanta's music culture and made lasting contributions to the hip-hop industry.




Chaka Zulu's career has been nothing short of remarkable. From guiding the career of rap superstar Ludacris to playing a pivotal role in launching the 24-hour hip-hop radio station Hot 107.9, his influence on Atlanta's hip-hop identity is undeniable. "Without Shaka Zulu, there is no DTP, no Ludacris, no movie soundtracks, no Muni Long," emphasized Hot 107.9 Program Director Devin Steel at the event, driving home Zulu's profound impact on the industry.




During his acceptance speech, Chaka Zulu reflected on the station's simple mission in helping to shape Atlanta's culture. "Everybody in the radio station was between 17 and 25. We were all young people, didn't know what we were doing, but we had to figure it out, and we wanted to make Atlanta what Atlanta is today," he affirmed. As he reflected on the growth of the station, which led to his own career accomplishments, Zulu thanked the city for its decades of support.




Known for his humility and dedication to fostering talent, Zulu's contributions extend beyond music. He's recognized as an exceptional leader and mentor in his community. His influence was summed up perfectly by fellow music exec Ray Daniels, who called him "the real mayor of Atlanta."




With decades of achievements behind him, Chaka Zulu remains a powerful force in the industry-an enduring gamechanger.

via: https://hiphopwired.com/2753512/chaka-zulu-honored-with-rico-wade-game-changer-award-at-birthday-bash/