
The inaugural Rhythm and Kicks: Pepa’s St. Jude Sneaker Bash lit up Los Angeles with a dynamic blend of music, culture, and community — all in support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Hosted by hip-hop icon and humanitarian Sandra “Pepa” Denton of Salt-N-Pepa, alongside music executive and strategist Walter J. Tucker, the event proved that giving back can be as powerful as it is joyful.
Pepa, a Grammy Award-winning legend and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, brought more than star power to the night — she brought purpose. A longtime St. Jude ambassador, she’s known not only for shaping music history but also for her unwavering support of underserved families and children battling life-threatening illnesses.
Joining her was co-host Walter J. Tucker, founder of Being Indie Is Major and one of Billboard’s top music executives. Known for curating groundbreaking platforms for creatives across the globe, Walter brought his signature vision to the night, including a showcase of top-tier talent.
In a heartfelt surprise, Pepa received the inaugural Pepa Award, honoring her long-standing commitment to the mission of St. Jude. The award was presented by her Salt-N-Pepa sister and lifelong friend, Deidra “DJ Spinderella” Roper, in a moving moment of legacy, love, and leadership.
Live performances curated by Being Indie Is Major featured standout sets from Gogo Morrow, Trevor Jackson, and MAJOR., bringing undeniable energy to the stage. Guests enjoyed premium food and drinks, a silent auction, and a star-studded red carpet that included:
Ryan Rondeno (FOX TV Celebrity Chef), Billboard-charting artist Ashley Paul, funk band SlapBak (managed by Randy Jackson), platinum producer Joel Diamond, Ty Smith (Now Hiring), media host Brooke Toney, and rising pop-R&B star Briannagh D.
The night’s success was powered by an incredible team, including:
Jimmy Maynes & Jenny Woldt (615 JJ Entertainment), Joey Harris (Joey Harris Inc.), Hustle Simmons (Watershed Creative), Matt Tuffour (Toasted Life), Anthez Williams (A1OCHUN), Katrina Strangis (BLKat Entertainment), Brandon Cohen (BAC Talent), Walter Tucker (Live The Biz), Nikki Claudine (Claudine PR), and Lisa Lew (P & L Media).
Brand sponsors included: Humm Kombucha, Rebbl, Chameleon Espresso Martini Mixer, Töst, Kan-Anan, All About The Cinnamon, Jamrock Jerk Grill, 101 Vodka, Black Radiance, Tepozan Tequila, Wiens Cellars, MesoLyft, LA’telier, Sonrisa Puerto Rican Rum, Disney artist Jimmy C. Mulligan, and Playbook Distribution.
Proceeds benefited St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where no family ever receives a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food — because all they should worry about is helping their child live.
Support the Mission
To continue supporting Pepa’s work with St. Jude, visit www.stjude.org/pepa. Every donation makes a difference.
Get Involved for 2026
To sponsor or support next year’s Rhythm and Kicks: Pepa’s St. Jude Sneaker Bash, visit www.615jjentertainment.com/pepa. Let’s make 2026 even more impactful — together.
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