A3C Festival
& Conference
Co-Owner & Director | 2009 - 2019 (Sold)
A3C evolved from a small showcase into a multi-day experience that brought together artists, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders across music, tech, and culture. It served as a launchpad for emerging talent and a platform for legends, while spotlighting Atlanta's role as a global hub for hip-hop and innovation.
A3C was an internationally recognized institution in hip-hop and one of Atlanta's most significant cultural events bringing tens of thousands of visitors to Atlanta and driving economic activity, creative collaboration, and cultural storytelling throughout the city. From live performances and thought-provoking panels to art installations and community events, A3C was a vital force in celebrating, preserving, and pushing hip-hop culture forward.
Origin
After a 13 hour car ride to and from Austin, TX for SXSW, I was determined to build a platform in Atlanta that could showcase Atlanta's talented artists, entrepreneurs and creatives. I was introduced to Brian Knott several months later, who had produced a small 3-Day hip-hop show at Center Stage called "A3C."
Personal Highlight
Killer Mike performing "Claremont Lounge" at the Clermont Lounge
Work
A3C Festival
Over 7,500 artists have performed, paying tribute to the pioneers, celebrating the legends, and elevating the next generation, including:
J. Cole, Nas, Megan Thee Stallion, Lil Wayne, Wu-Tang Clan, Latto, A$AP Rocky, 2 Chainz, Nipsey Hussle, Rick Ross, Young Thug, Big Boi, 21 Savage, Rakim, Jack Harlow, Jeezy, De La Soul, Ty Dolla $ign, DJ Premier, Joey Bada$$, J.I.D, Bone-Thugs-N-Harmony, Playboi Carti, Lil Yachty, Lil Uzi Vert, Scarface, Too $hort, Cam'ron & Questlove
A3C Conference
Connecting the artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators that shape the future through conversations, workshops, and networking — past speakers included:
Steve Stoute, Gary Vee, Bozoma Saint-John, Killer Mike, GZA, Coach K, Dapper Dan, Stacey Abrams, T.I., Jeezy, Charlamagne Tha God, DJ Drama, Angela Yee, 9th Wonder, Master P, Lenny S., Wyclef Jean, Young Guru, Steve Rifkind, MC Lyte, Troy Carter, Robert Glasper, Organized Noize & James Prince
Gallery
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Branded Activations
Toyota Sound Garage
An interactive music experience showcasing live performances, emerging talent, and exclusive artist collaborations supporting the next generation of artists.
Soundcloud Forum
A series of conversations, panels & workshops designed to empower independent artists, producers, and entrepreneurs.
Patreon Studio Takeover
A multiday studio takeover for original programming, interview series and music recording with local producers, artists and influencers.
Google for Startups
Helping bridge the gap between the creative community and the tech industry, empowering the next generation of founders in music, media, and culture.
Sprite Fader Fort
A high-energy live music experience with exclusive performances celebrating creativity, culture, and the future of hip-hop.
ATL United Kick-Off Party
The event captured the energy of the city's growing love for soccer while bridging the worlds of music, sports, and lifestyle to kick-off the week of events.
The Creator Complex
The hands-on hub for one-on-one feedback, professional development, content creation, and tech exploration.
It connected brands, creators, and experts in a massive multi-day creative experience.
Dozens of participating partners contributed an estimated $400,000 worth of free services and assets to thousands of indie artists and producers.
A3C Action Accelerator
A national initiative that supported artists, activists, and social entrepreneurs using hip-hop and the arts to drive change in their communities.
In partnership with the Center for Civic Innovation, we brought together bold, creative leaders for a three-day program in Atlanta focused on leadership, business development, and social impact.
Finalists pitched their ideas live at A3C for a chance to win over $10,000 in funding — gaining tools, visibility, and a powerful network to help take their missions to the next level.
