IME Awards

The IME Awards proudly recognize Tariq Stewart Tariq Stewart as the recipient of the A&R of the Year Award.
A distinguished A&R executive, Tariq Stewart has built a reputation for identifying talent, developing artists and helping shape the sound of today’s music. From his early work at RCA to his current role as SVP of A&R at Capitol, Stewart has worked closely with some of the industry’s most impactful artists, including Chris Brown, Libianca, Skillibeng, A$AP Ferg, Rich The Kid and Flo Milli.
His A&R contributions include helping develop Libianca’s breakout record “People” and Skillibeng and Wizkid’s “Slip N Slide,” while also playing a role in the team behind Chris Brown’s Grammy-winning album “11:11.”
The IME Awards celebrate the executives and creatives behind the music — and Tariq Stewart represents the next generation of visionary A&R leadership.
Congratulations, Tariq Stewart, on being named A&R of the Year!

3rd Annual IME Awards
Sunday, October 18, 2026
Ice House Theatre
24 N. Mentor Ave., Pasadena, CA
Red Carpet: 6:00 PM
Ceremony: 7:00 PM
RSVP & ticket information available through the link in bio.

Congratulations Eric B
Eric B - Hip Hop Legend

IME proudly honors one of the true architects of hip-hop history, Eric B., as the recipient of the 2026 Timeless Music Icon Award.

From the golden era of hip-hop to the present day, Eric B. helped redefine the sound, culture and possibilities of the DJ and producer. As one half of the legendary Eric B. & Rakim, he played a defining role in creating a body of work that continues to influence generations of artists, producers and music lovers.
The landmark 1987 album Paid in Full remains one of the most celebrated albums in hip-hop history, while Eric B.’s innovative production and masterful use of sampling helped establish a blueprint that continues to shape the culture today.
Eric B. & Rakim have also twice been nominated for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, a recognition of their extraordinary influence and enduring impact on music and culture.
At the IME Awards, we celebrate the artists, creators and executives whose contributions transcend eras.
Tonight, we celebrate Eric B.
A Timeless Music Icon.
Congratulations, Eric B. 🏆

3RD ANNUAL IME AWARDS
Sunday, October 18, 2026
VIP Red Carpet: 6:00 PM
IME Awards Ceremony: 7:00 PM
The Ice House Theater
24 N. Mentor Ave. | Pasadena, CA
“Honoring Resilience in Music”
Tickets & RSVP: www.imeawards26.com

THE IME AWARDS HONORS
CANDICE PILLAY Candice Pillay
2026 GOLDEN PEN AWARD RECIPIENT
South African-born and Los Angeles-based, Candice Pillay is a Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum singer, songwriter, and recording artist whose body of work transcends genres.
Her songwriting and vocal work can be heard on projects by some of music’s most influential artists, including Rihanna, Dr. Dre, Kendrick Lamar, Eminem, Christina Aguilera, Anderson .Paak, ScHoolboy Q, and Calvin Harris.
From co-writing Rihanna’s “Cockiness (Love It)” and “American Oxygen” to writing and performing throughout Dr. Dre’s Compton, Candice has built a career defined by a distinctive voice and an ability to move seamlessly between writing for other artists and creating her own music.
Her creative reach extends into film, television, and sync, with her songwriting, vocals, and original music featured in projects for the screen. She is also expanding further into film, working on music and scoring for major motion pictures.
Beyond songwriting, Candice is a visionary in artist development, mentorship, and music education, working closely with emerging talent to cultivate their artistry, songwriting, vocal identity, and creative direction.

Now entering a new era, Candice draws from her South African Indian roots to build a world entirely her own — bold, soulful, and unapologetically hers.
The IME Awards proudly recognizes Candice Pillay with the Golden Pen Award, celebrating her exceptional contribution to songwriting, music, and creative expression.

3RD ANNUAL IME AWARDS
Sunday, October 18, 2026
Ice House Theatre
24 N. Mentor Ave.
Pasadena, CA
Red Carpet: 6:00 PM
RSVP & Ticket Information: See link in bio
Celebrating established and emerging pioneers of music.

IME AWARDS PRESENTS
FRESCO aka FRESCO SANTANA
Fresco Santana
OFFICIAL PRESENTER
Sacramento artist Fresco G has been making his mark in hip-hop with a distinctive sound, authentic storytelling, and a style rooted in the West Coast. With a growing catalog and collaborations across the culture, Fresco G continues to build his legacy as an independent artist and creative.
We are proud to welcome Fresco G to the stage as an official Presenter at the 3rd Annual IME Awards.

Independent Music Empowered.
Sunday, October 18, 2026
The Ice House Theatre
24 N. Mentor Avenue
Pasadena, CA
Red Carpet — 6:00 PM
Ceremony — 7:00 PM
RSVP / Tickets: Link in bio
IME Awards “Indie Music Empowered

IME AWARDS PRESENTS

KINO
KiNo
Official Presenter
Kino is an artist, creative, and emerging voice making her mark through music, culture, and authentic self-expression. Originally from Chicago, Kino brings a distinctive presence and passion for the creative community, connecting with audiences through her artistry and vision.
We are proud to welcome Kino to the stage as an official Presenter for the 3rd Annual IME Awards.

Independent Music Empowered.
Sunday, October 18, 2026
The Ice House Theatre
24 N. Mentor Avenue
Pasadena, CA
Red Carpet — 6:00 PM
Ceremony — 7:00 PM
RSVP / Tickets: Link in bio
IME Awards “Indie Music Empowered

The IME Awards proudly honors Brian Alexander Morgan as the recipient of the Legendary Producer Award at the 3rd Annual IME Awards.
One of the true architects of Pop and R&B, Brian Alexander Morgan is a celebrated songwriter and producer whose work helped define the sound and emotional language of an entire era.
From his groundbreaking work with SWV on classics including “Weak,” “Right Here (Human Nature),” and “I’m So Into You,” to his contributions to artists including Lalah Hathaway, Usher, Faith Evans, Tamar Braxton, and many more, Morgan’s influence continues to resonate throughout today’s music.
His timeless catalog has been sampled and reimagined by generations of Hip-Hop and R&B artists, solidifying his place as one of the most influential producers and songwriters of his generation.

This year, the IME Awards celebrates Brian Alexander Morgan — a true architect, creator, and living legend.

3rd Annual IME Awards
Sunday, October 18, 2026
The Ice House Theatre
24 N. Mentor Ave., Pasadena, CA
Red Carpet: 6:00 PM
Ceremony: 7:00 PM
RSVP & tickets available through the link in bio.