Los Angeles in October. The air is cooler, but the city still hums with that signature electricity, a constant, pulsing beat that makes people chase dreams, build empires, and—if they’re lucky—give back. And this weekend, in the heart of downtown LA, the industry’s elite will gather not to pop bottles or celebrate themselves, but to focus on something far more important: the next generation.
It’s the 2nd Annual Awards Brunch and Golf Classic hosted by the Music Forward Foundation. A collision of worlds—where rockstars, executives, and activists rally for something bigger than fame. Last year, it was a spectacle of giving, raising over $350,000 for youth empowerment programs, a testament to what happens when music and philanthropy play in the same band. This year? Expectations are high, but the people behind this know exactly what they’re doing.
Honoring Visionaries: From Rockstars to Activists
I spoke with Music Forward Foundation’s Executive Director, Nurit Smith. And if there’s one thing you need to know about her, it’s this: she’s not in this for the accolades. She’s here to change lives.
“This event is about more than just celebrating music,” she says. “It’s about creating real access and opportunities for young people who dream of making their mark in this industry. We’re pulling the industry together not just to write checks, but to create a legacy of giving back.”
The brunch, set at the City Club Los Angeles on October 6th, isn’t your typical awards ceremony. It’s not about patting each other on the back for chart-topping hits. Instead, they’re honoring people and organizations who have taken their influence offstage to drive actual change. Incubus, for example, will receive the Tour Award. They’ve done more than just melt faces with their music; their Make Yourself Foundation has been quietly championing sustainability, disaster relief, and arts education since 2003.
And then there’s Lollapalooza, which will receive the Festival Award. If you’ve ever wandered the many stages of this global phenomenon, you know it’s a cultural event unto itself, blending genres and vibes. But Lolla’s impact reaches further. Their Arts Education Fund in Chicago public schools, their job fairs, their programs to foster talent—this is where the festival’s influence turns from party to purpose.
“We carefully select honorees who reflect our core values—those who have taken their platforms and used them to advocate for social good,” Nurit explains. “The impact they’ve had, not just on the industry, but on communities, is incredible. We want attendees to walk away feeling that same inspiration, knowing they can be part of this movement for change.”
Gina Belafonte, daughter of the legendary Harry Belafonte, will receive the Community Award, recognizing her work with Sankofa.org, an organization that uses the power of art to address social justice issues. She’ll be presented the award by Jesse Williams, an actor who’s never been shy about using his own voice for activism. It’s a full-circle moment—art for change, change for art.
“Gina and her father’s work with Sankofa.org is so aligned with what we do at Music Forward,” Nurit continues. “Their mission is to empower artists to speak out on the issues that matter most. That’s the beauty of this event—bringing together these visionaries who remind us that music, culture, and social change are all interconnected.”
Building Bridges for the Next Generation: Golf, Giving, and Legacy
And after the brunch, the scene will shift. Celebrities and executives will swap their suits for golf shoes as they hit the links for a day of competition. But here’s where the magic happens—it’s not just about swinging clubs. It’s about creating the kinds of connections that matter. Deals are made over birdies, mentorships are born over mulligans. Nurit and her team know that relationships formed here are where real change begins.
“These events give us a unique opportunity to connect the industry’s top players with the next generation,” Nurit says. “What starts as a round of golf can lead to internships, jobs, or mentorships for our youth. We’re building bridges that can last a lifetime.”
And those bridges are critical. The money raised from this weekend will directly fund Music Forward’s programs like All Access and their Scholarship Program, initiatives that give underrepresented youth a chance to break into an industry notorious for its closed doors.
“It’s all about access,” Nurit emphasizes. “Music Forward is committed to making sure the next generation of artists, producers, and executives have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. It’s more than music—it’s about creating a more equitable industry.”
As Nurit wraps up our conversation, her energy is contagious. It’s clear that she’s not just running another charity event. She’s steering a movement. One that blends the worlds of music, philanthropy, and social justice in a way that feels authentic, grounded, and—most importantly—urgent. It’s the recognition that music has the power to change lives, but only if the industry itself is willing to open its arms and pass the torch.
Because when the music fades, and the brunch plates are cleared, what remains is the future. And the Music Forward Foundation is making sure that future looks a whole lot brighter for the next generation.
For more information about the foundation visit musicforwardfoundation.org
If you want to sponsor the Golf Event, visit events.idonate.com/2024mffgolfclassic
Address: 18300 Tarzana Drive, Tarzana
Time: Monday, October 7, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
If you want to sponsor the Bruch Event, visit events.idonate.com/mff2024brunch
Address: 555 Flower St 51st Floor, Los Angeles
Time: Sunday, October 6, 10:30 a.m.-2p.m.
Photo credits: Courtesy of Music Forward Foundation
