On December 6, 2025, Los Angeles hosted the 9th Annual Hitmakers Brunch, a significant event in the music industry that brought together some of the brightest stars and key behind-the-scenes figures in contemporary music. The brunch, organized by Variety, honored the songwriters, producers, and artists whose work contributed to the year’s most popular and impactful hits. This annual gathering is renowned not only for celebrating musical achievements but also for offering a space where creativity, networking, and industry trends come to the forefront.
The event attracted notable performers like Sabrina Carpenter, Addison Rae, and Madison Beer, who added their star power to the festivities. These artists were among the many who attended to recognize the contributions of those shaping today’s music scene. The Hitmakers Brunch is widely seen as a cultural touchstone for the industry, an opportunity to highlight the people who are responsible for crafting the songs that have resonated most with audiences over the past year.
Beyond its role as a recognition event, the brunch is also a showcase of fashion, artistry, and community within the music world. In addition to the musical talents in attendance, the event also draws significant attention for the fashion choices of its guests, with many using the occasion as an opportunity to make bold style statements. The convergence of music and fashion at this event reflects the ever-growing influence of pop culture on one another, where an artist’s image and style often go hand-in-hand with their musical success. The Hitmakers Brunch is not just a celebration of music but also a broader cultural gathering, reinforcing the connection between creativity in all forms of artistic expression.
The event’s emphasis on collaboration and community also made it a platform for emerging artists and established professionals alike to connect, exchange ideas, and discuss the direction of the music industry. In an era of rapid change in the music landscape—driven by digital streaming, social media influence, and the global reach of platforms like TikTok—the brunch serves as a reminder of the collective nature of the music business. It’s not just the artists who make the music; it’s the writers, producers, and collaborators who help shape each track, often without receiving as much public recognition.
The 2025 edition of the Hitmakers Brunch came at a time when the music industry was evolving rapidly, with new voices and sounds emerging regularly to shape the mainstream. The event provided an opportunity to reflect on the past year’s musical landscape, which was marked by both the continued influence of pop icons and the rise of new genres and independent artists. The music scene continues to diversify, and the brunch showcased a broad range of voices—from established superstars to fresh faces—demonstrating how interconnected and vibrant the industry is.
As the year draws to a close, the Hitmakers Brunch offers a unique chance to not only celebrate the songs that have defined the year but also look forward to the future of music. It serves as a cultural moment that transcends the traditional awards season, becoming a space where industry trends, creative partnerships, and social connections can all be nurtured in an environment of mutual respect and celebration. The event reminds us of the profound impact music continues to have on society and the importance of recognizing the work of those who make it all happen, both in front of and behind the scenes.