Rapper Playboi Carti dedicates first Billboard award to Rich Homie Quan

September 5 marked a bittersweet moment in the music industry as Playboi Carti received his first ever award at the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players Awards, just hours after the music world learned of Rich Homie Quan's untimely death at 34.

Despite the celebrations, the mood was somber, especially for Carti, who had earlier acknowledged Quan’s influence on his career.

In an emotional acceptance speech, Carti expressed gratitude to his mother, God, and the Billboard organization before taking a moment to honor Quan.

Holding the award, he paused, then somberly declared, "RIP Rich Homie Quan," acknowledging Quan's crew and drawing supportive cheers from the audience.

This tribute added a layer of depth to the event, highlighting the close-knit nature of the hip-hop community.

Carti's respect for his peers was further evidenced as he recalled previous tributes to other late artists like Fredo Santana and Juice WRLD.

"I miss Fredo like a motherf***er," he had emotionally stated at a past concert, and in a recent interview, reflected on Juice WRLD’s passing, saying, "That sh*t blew my mind bro.

He was really a GOAT." Carti's continued recognition of his peers' legacies showcases his deep connections within the industry, despite not having worked directly with some.

The day was a powerful reminder of the impacts artists can have on each other, both in life and beyond.