DJ Akademiks is exploring a new method for independent hip-hop media personalities to acknowledge the music and conversations that influence rap culture. In an episode of “The Final Verdict,” a year-end hip-hop discussion featuring several top independent creators, Akademiks suggested the group could eventually put on their own awards show instead of always seeking validation from established institutions. The idea would bring together voices from the independent media space, including Adam22, Trap Lore Ross, and other panelists.

The Final Verdict gathered six panelists to talk and break down the major conversations in hip-hop in 2026. Akademiks, Trap Lore Ross, Adam22, Poetik Flakko, Shawn Cotton and Riemoh headlined the panel. They discussed the year’s events in rap and made room for other perspectives from creators outside music media institutions.

After his livestream, Akademiks reflected on the show and asked why independent commentators should still care so much about awards and lists from bigger organizations. In comments recorded by DJ Akademiks TV on Instagram, he made it clear he didn’t really care what the Grammys or VMAs had to say anymore. “A lot of people still talk about those institutions partly because of tradition, not necessarily because their decisions reflect the views of the independent media community,” he said.

His bigger point was about influence and validation. Akademiks said that if the people at the table of “The Final Verdict” did not recognize or validate certain lists, those lists would be less meaningful to their own circle. Rather than letting outside organizations define what matters in hip-hop, he said independent media figures could build their own platform.

That possibility could extend past one awards show. “The same group of creators could work toward developing an awards show while still producing a year-end wrap-up program,” said Akademiks. This idea would allow the panel to acknowledge artists and developments on its own terms and in its own conversations, rather than simply following the choices made by established award bodies.

The proposal also reflects Akademiks’ identity as an independent media outlet. It should mean operating on your own, without needing the blessing of mainstream organizations or larger entities, he argued. He believes that creators who have built their own audiences should be willing to build their own platforms and decide how they want to cover and celebrate the culture.

Akademiks also referenced Adam22 and Trap Lore Ross in connection to the potential project, and the larger group involved in “The Final Verdict.” The comments do not, however, constitute a confirmed launch announcement. The information did not specify a name, date, format, nomination process, or award categories.

So far, it’s just a possibility that was brought up during Akademiks’ livestream. Still, his comments suggest a desire to make the influence of independent hip-hop commentary more formal. If the creators decide to press on, their proposed awards show could provide another lens on the year’s most important music and culture conversations.