Billboard Power 100 at Zouk LA: Where Music’s Movers and Shakers Kicked Off Grammy Week
- By: Ani Gutierrez | Photos: Zouk LA x Billboard
- February 2, 2026
Before the winners were even announced, Grammy Week had already taken over Los Angeles. On Wednesday night, black SUVs weaved through West Hollywood, exclusive invites were confirmed, and Mariah Carey, Clive Davis, Pusha T, Sharon Osbourne and the industry’s inner circle gathered inside Zouk LA to celebrate Billboard Power 100.
Presented by VENU, Billboard didn’t just throw another Grammy party, it honored music’s most influential executives alongside some of the names who influence what gets heard, who gets funded, and what becomes culturally significant. Naturally, this meant rallying some of the most impactful people in music into a nightclub and letting the night unfold in true LA fashion.
Sherry Lansing, Michelle Anthony, Terri Liebler, and other defining figures in the industry mingled under the glow of neon lights, while a newer generation of executives and creatives folded effortlessly into the rhythm. The crowd’s buzz matched Zouk’s pulse, with laughter spilling from conversations and glasses clinking throughout the evening.
The night shifted with recognition, spotlighting the figures steering the industry’s direction. Jody Gerson was recognized as Executive of the Decade. Lucian Grainge accepted the No. 1 Award, while Janelle Lopez Genzink was named Executive of the Year. Alex DePersia received the Breakthrough Award, and PlaqueBoyMax took home the Disruptor Award. Sharon Osbourne was also honored with the Clive Davis Visionary Award.
Mariah Carey opened the evening by presenting Gerson’s award, instantly transforming the atmosphere from social to sincere. When Gerson spoke about music’s ability to bring hope and connection in uncertain times, it was one of those moments that reminded everyone why these gatherings still matter. “In a world so fraught with tension, turmoil and uncertainty, I am proud to be in an industry that brings music to the world and with it hope, unity and healing,” Gerson shared in her acceptance speech.
Later, Clive Davis returned to the stage to present Osbourne’s award, delivering a tribute that felt deeply personal rather than just ceremonial. Osbourne followed with reflections on her career and on her late husband, Ozzy Osbourne, sharing stories about creativity and the kind of originality that can’t be easily manufactured. “My vision was always about helping extraordinary, talented people achieve greatness and it’s always been my vision,” Osbourne shared. “There are many people in this industry that are so talented, but there’s a handful of artists that have greatness.”
Between the inspiring speeches, the night unfolded at its own pace. DJ Devin Lucien drove the room with a pulsating mix that effortlessly carried the energy, while cocktails and small bites made their rounds. Billboard Chief Brand Officer Dana Droppo summed it up best: “Tonight’s Power 100 event captured the vision, innovation, and leadership driving music forward.”
With support from Cash App, Goldstate, HarbourView Equity Partners, and SBE, the night was a perfect blend of LA’s nightlife with industry importance, letting the room’s impact resonate on its own.
At Zouk LA, Billboard’s Power 100 set the tone for Grammy Week, reminding everyone that before the awards, the headlines, and the viral moments, this is where the industry aligns, connections are made, and the future of music takes shape.
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