Although their distinction bestowed onto Kendrick Lamar didn’t go over well, GQ is keeping their music awards going and as they have named Pharrell Williams Hitmaker of the Year for 2013.
The selection–while well deserved–should come as a no-brainer due to Pharrell’s ubiquity on the radio this year.
Earlier in the year, Pharrell helped Robin Thicke deliver the song of his career with “Blurred Lines,” as it received a record-breaking 228.9 million impressions for a single week. Shortly thereafter,the superproducer linked up with house music duo, Daft Punk for the commercial breakout, “Get Lucky.” Both records have been certified multi-platinum at 6x and 7x, respectively.
Williams also lended his magic touch to Jay Z’s Magna Carta Holy Grail which was dubbed platinum the first day of its release. GQ has maintained a healthy relationship with Hip-Hop artists for some time now and for his celebratory photo shoot, the magazine laced The Neptune in Gucci, Chanel for men, Audemars Piguet as well as his own Billionaire Boys Club.
Even with the dubious honor, everyone doesn’t share the joy over Pharrell’s 2013 accomplishments. Upstart MC, Azealia Banks recently voiced her opinion over the VA producer’s alleged mishandling of her “ATM Jam” single.
GQ didn’t exactly have a drama-free year, either. In the wake of Kendrick Lamar being named “Rapper of the Year” by the publication, the Compton MC’s boss felt the article to coincide with the award showcased the rapper in a negative light. GQ has since offered up a rebuttal for the claim.
Pharrell seemed mighty happy to partake in the photo shoot, however. Hit the gallery to see the pics.
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Photo: GQ/Steven Pan
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