One of Billboard's primary goals is to strengthen its commitment to the urban music community. Our weekly R&B/Hip-Hop section and quarterly specials are dedicated to covering upcoming musical trends and news, profiling artists and label executives, and sharing viewpoints on important issues.

But that wasn't enough. So Billboard decided to launch an annual conference. Since its kickoff in August 2000, Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop Conference is well on its way to becoming an industry staple. For that - and the continued support we receive each week - we extend thanks and appreciation to our friends in records, radio, and the affiliated industries.

Now after two successful, growth-building years in New York - which saw the advent last year of the magazine's first annual R&B/Hip-Hop Awards show - the 2002 conference shifted locales to Miami Beach, August 7-9. Capping the three-day conference was our second annual R&B/Hip-Hop Awards, staged at the city's new hot spot, Billboard Live.

This year's event promises even more in the way of industry-savvy speakers, informative panels, and skills-sharpening workshops that will help those in R&B and hip-hop meet the challenges of a changing industry landscape buffeted by consolidation, a slowing economy, and the aftermath of Sept. 11. At the same time, black music's glorious and influential legacy - past, present, and future - will also be celebrated through artist showcases as well as a stellar awards show lineup.

So please make plans to join us in Miami, August 6-8. There's still more to come.

Sincerely,

Gail Mitchell
Associate Editor, R&B/Rap