Tia Kemp has always been known for her unfiltered energy online, but now she’s bringing that personality to a much bigger stage. Kemp has officially been tapped to host the first-ever NXT Awards, set for October 25, at Gateway Arena in College Park, Georgia.
The show—powered by the streaming platform Now That’s TV—will highlight major artists, indie talent, and digital creators making an impact across music, entertainment, and media.
For Kemp, stepping into this role marks a defining moment. “I think it’s very important to celebrate people who are moving our culture forward,” she said ahead of the event. “With everything going on in our country, we need something positive to uplift people who are out here trying to make an impact.”
Kemp first rose to prominence years ago through her connection to rapper Rick Ross, with whom she shares a son, but her own voice has kept her in the spotlight. Viral clips of her social media rants regularly take off, with one in particular catching the attention of 50 Cent earlier this year.
After Kemp shut down rumors about chasing younger men, 50 reposted the clip and wrote: “Yo, I like Tia, I think she should replace Wendy Williams. LET’S MAKE A DEAL!”
The shoutout sparked speculation about whether Kemp was on the verge of her own talk show. Now, her latest move only strengthens the case that she’s on track for a real career in front of the camera.
“I want people to take me seriously as a host and TV personality, not just from social media,” she explained. “Booking gigs like this helps people know that I’m not a one-trick pony.”
Founded by Teleau Belton, Now That’s TV has become one of the fastest-growing Black-owned streaming networks in the U.S., with millions of monthly viewers and a focus on both independent and mainstream talent. The NXT Awards reflect that mission, offering categories that stretch far beyond just music.
Awards will be presented for DJ of the Year, Breakout Artist of the Year, Indie Movie of the Year, and Entrepreneur of the Year, as well as recognition for publicists, bloggers, and media outlets that help drive culture forward. For Kemp, recognizing those behind the scenes is just as crucial as spotlighting the stars on stage. “When you acknowledge people for their hard work, they go even harder for you,” she said.
The choice of College Park’s Gateway Arena also feels deliberate. As Kemp put it, “College Park is Black. It’s Black excellence. It’s the epitome of Black legacy, so it’s only right we pull up here.”
Between the city’s deep roots in music and its current influence across business and media, Atlanta stands as the perfect backdrop for a new kind of award show—one that promises a mix of entertainment, recognition, and community.
And at the center of it all will be Kemp, who will turn her raw authenticity into a role that could open the door to even more opportunities in television. As she summed it up herself: “I want them to know that I was the first. That’s history right there.”