Jermaine Dupri with Jagged Edge
Written by | Ray Cornelius
All eyes will be on Atlanta this weekend as super music producer Jermaine Dupri celebrates the 20th Anniversary of his beloved So So Def Records. Most of the label’s artists are on hand for the festivities which include an anniversary concert tomorrow night at The Fabulous Fox Theater.
Last night Dupri officially kicked things off with a private dinner for his artists and industry supporters. It was his way of honoring all of the individuals that contributed to his label’s success.
“This is my way of saying thank you for helping me build the So So Def empire,” continued Dupri. “This is a historical moment, so tonight I’m celebrating you. Sit back, relax…I’m gonna serve you. But enjoy it, because that will never happen again!”
Everyone from Bow Wow to Da Brat to Bonecrusher and Dem Franchise Boyz was in da house for a lavish meal by Chef Michael Hebb. Also present were Dupri’s newest artist Dondria along with Dupri’s father and veteran music executive Michael Maudlin.
For some of the artists, this weekend is a family reunion of sorts. For others, like Bow Wow and Chris Kelly of the duo Kris Kross, this is an opportunity to get acquainted for the first time as Dupri pointed out.
“In all these years, this is the first time that Bow Wow and Chris Kelly have ever met,” announced Dupri during the dinner. “Bow Wow is a product of Kris Kross, so the fact that we can bring everyone together like this means a lot.”
Check out the rest of the photos from last night’s event…
The custom “Afroman” cake by Jaxon Pastries
Bow Wow
LaTocha and Tamika Scott of Xscape
Chris Kelly of Kris Kross
Youngbloodz
Da Brat and Dondria
The So So Def 20th Anniversary Concert is Saturday, Feb. 23 at 7:30pm the Fox Theatre Atlanta. Tickets can be purchased at FoxATLTix.com.
Photography Credit: Thaddaeus McAdams/Exclusive Access