Our goal for The Cookout was simple: create a space where Black professionals in entertainment and tech could come together to celebrate Juneteenth and Black Music Month. The outcome was more than we could’ve ever imagined.
The creators of The Cookout
(l-r: Kendre Swinton, Loan Hoang, Orondé Jenkins, Lily Hailemarim)
From Rae Khalil’s amazing performance to the energy of DJs Earry Hall and Okay Coleman!, combined with the Spades tournament and cookout food from Earle’s on Crenshaw, the night was a vibrant display of Black expression.
But beyond the entertainment, it was a moment of unity and camaraderie. Witnessing over 350 Black industry professionals enjoying themselves without the pressures of the outside world was incredible.
Thanks to the collaboration of ERGs from Warner Music Group, YouTube, The Recording Academy, Spotify, Google, Netflix, Sony Music, SoundCloud, Live Nation, and The SpringHill Company, The Cookout was a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we unite as a community.
We also demonstrated the strength of collective action, as we partnered with Guitar Center Foundation to donate $5,000 worth of instruments to The Harmony Project, impacting underserved youth through music education and mentorship.
