The heartbeat of the Long Beach underground isn’t found in stadium tours or viral trends; it’s found in the steady, relentless grind of artists who show up, day after day, for their city. On August 13, the Long Beach Art Theater will serve as the backdrop for a milestone celebration of that dedication: the Roaddogstv Recognition Awards.
This year, the ceremony takes a poignant turn as it prepares to honor two pillars of the local scene—the veteran rap group The Hustle Holix and the legendary Long Beach lyricist Big Supa—with legacy awards for their unwavering twenty-year commitment to the culture.
A Legacy of Longevity
For two decades, the Long Beach underground has relied on the presence of artists who hold the line. The Hustle Holix and Big Supa have become synonymous with the “International City’s” hip-hop identity, proving that longevity isn’t just about survival—it’s about evolution and influence.
The Hustle Holix have been instrumental in keeping the underground spirit alive, not only through their music but through their media presence. Their segment, Hustle Holix Hip Hop Corner on Roaddogstv, is celebrating a monumental 10-year anniversary. For a decade, this platform has served as a vital lighthouse for local talent, amplifying the voices of the LBC and bridging the gap between established legends and the next generation of North Long Beach lyricists.
Joining them in the spotlight is Big Supa, a titan of the West Coast scene whose career trajectory remains a blueprint for independent success. From his early rise with the West Coast Killa Beez—marking his indelible connection to the Wu-Tang lineage—to his relentless solo output, Big Supa has remained a constant force. With a discography that includes projects like Big Supa Tha Long Beach Pusha and 8 Dayze a Week, and his most recent power moves like the album Long Beach and the anthem “Still Banging Long Beach,” he continues to command respect as a true “Pusha” of the West Coast sound.
The Ceremony: A Night for the Culture
The Roaddogstv Recognition Awards at the Long Beach Art Theater are set to be more than just a trophy presentation. It is a moment of reflection for a community that has weathered industry shifts, economic tides, and the changing landscape of California music.
By honoring The Hustle Holix and Big Supa, Roaddogstv is highlighting the importance of the long game. These artists have chosen to build from the ground up, turning their passion into a permanent fixture of Long Beach history.
As we look toward August 13, the message is clear: while the trends may come and go, the legends who stay true to their roots are the ones who build the foundation upon which the future is written. Congratulations to both The Hustle Holix and Big Supa—thank you for twenty years of keeping the city’s heart beating.
