By Emilie St. John
Contributing Writer
WATTS — Los Angeles City Councilman Tim McOsker honored several Watts leaders during the 11th Annual Top Dawg Entertainment Christmas Concert and Toy Drive Dec. 12-13.
The two-day event showcased Top Dawg Entertainment’s dual commitment to music and philanthropy, drawing over 10,000 attendees and distributing $750,000 worth of toys, clothing and donations.
In recognition of his commitment to the community, McOsker presented Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith, founder of Top Dawg Entertainment, with the keys to the district during the event held in Nickerson Gardens, a Watts Housing Authority development.
“Anthony Tiffith’s dedication to Nickerson Gardens and his unwavering commitment to uplifting the community that he grew up in exemplify the spirit of leadership and generosity,” McOsker said.
“By giving back to the children and families of Nickerson Gardens, year after year, Top Dawg reminds us all of the power of community and the importance of investing in our future generations.”
The event has become a hallmark of the holiday season for Nickerson Gardens. The event features toy giveaways, holiday treats, live entertainment and community-building activities, creating a festive atmosphere for families and children.
The festivities kicked off Dec. 12 with a star-studded holiday concert featuring performances by artists SZA, Jay Rock, Isaiah Rashad, Doechii and more, along with special guest appearances from Kendrick Lamar, GloRilla and Lefty Gunplay.
Day two of the event focused on giving back with a community giveback experience that included a toy giveaway, raffles, sports clinics and festive activities like carnival attractions, snow play and holiday photos.
Receiving the keys to the district is one of the highest honors a City Council member can bestow. Anthony Tiffith’s leadership in fostering a culture of giving back, both through Top Dawg Entertainment’s philanthropic efforts and his record label, has left a lasting impact on Nickerson Gardens.
Alongside Tiffith, McOsker bestowed keys to the district to the president of the Watts Gang Task Force, Donny Joubert and Hank Henderson, the task force’s sergeant of arms.
The Watts Gang Task Force has been instrumental in fostering peace and safety in the Watts community by facilitating dialogue between law enforcement and local residents, mediating conflicts and advocating for resources to address systemic challenges. Through its efforts, the task force has helped reduce violence, build trust and create a pathway for sustainable community growth.
Earlier this year, McOsker honored Tiffith with a street intersection dedication near Central Avenue and Imperial Highway.
“Whenever you drive through Central Avenue at Imperial Highway — either entering or exiting Watts — you’ll be passing through Anthony Tiffith “Top Dawg” Square,” McOsker said. “You can look up and be reminded of a great man from Nickerson Gardens, the founder of Top Dawg Entertainment, who is still leaving his mark on the world, but never forgot his roots and continues to give back.
Top Dawg Entertainment was founded in 2004 by Tiffith. His son, Anthony “Moosa” Tiffith Jr., and Terrence “Punch” Henderson are the presidents of the label.
“Growing up in the project, it was tough,” Tiffith said. “You know, we went through a lot of things, but the goal was to come back, build and teach. I never thought I’d be standing here getting this intersection named after me. Never in my wildest dreams, and I appreciate it.”
Emilie St. John is a freelance journalist covering the areas of Carson, Compton, Inglewood and Willowbrook. Send tips to her at emiliesaintjohn@gmail.com.
