Revered Cinematic Music hip-hop manager Jonathan ‘Hovain’ Hylton passed away at his home on Friday, November 25th. Hylton’s estate shared the news of his death through his social media accounts this Saturday.
“It is with deep regret that we message to all family, friends, and colleagues that Jonathan “Hovain” Hylton passed away while at his home on Friday, Nov. 25. He was a beloved and devoted father, husband, son, brother, and a proud Brooklyn representative.
We’d like to thank all of his close friends for all of the love and support that you have shown during this difficult time. We ask that you all continue to keep his family in your prayers and respect their privacy at this time.”
— Hovain (@Hovain) November 26, 2022
Artists from T.I. to Curren$y, Lloyd Banks to Hit-Boy took to twitter to memorialize the legendary career of a music industry exec who not only excelled at his job, but moved with class respect.
Can’t believe Hovain passed, wtf. He was one of the good ones. Everyone loved him. A pillar of New York hip hop, of hip hop in general, just a good guy. Damn.
— Nappin 4Tay (@atrak) November 26, 2022
Hovain was one of the last of a certain breed in this game. Hip hop just took a major L. 💔🙏🏻
— Statik Selektah (@StatikSelekt) November 26, 2022
Finally got some time to sit 🙏🏾.
RIP @Hovain 🖤. You're already missed dawg. What a beautiful legacy left behind. The list of achievements and dots connected is endless. Your contributions changed hip hop and music forever 🙏🏾
"Be of service" pic.twitter.com/vK8vLT07Ey
— LaRussell (@LaRussellGC) November 27, 2022
Jonathan ‘Hovain’ Hylton “The Great Connector”
Brooklyn born ‘Hovain’ Hylton’s career began under the wing of legendary boxing promoter Butch Lewis. “Working with Butch showed me how to be self-made,” Hovain shared. “Butch was the ultimate businessman, he always closed the deal and never made any excuses.”
Consequently, Hylton put those lessons to work in the music industry, managing Tommy Hilfiger’s son Rich Hil, and forming the Famous Factory live concert series with XXL. Hovain went on to manage and consult with some of New York’s most renowned acts. Lloyd Banks, Styles P and Cam’ron all trusted his sage advice and trustworthy coaching . Also, as a VP at Cinematic, Hylton worked closely with Flipp Dinero and T-Pain.
Throughout his career, Hylton showed a knack for executing top-tier sponsorship deals, including work with brands such as Adidas, Sean John, Avion Tequila and more.
Aside from his industry endeavors, Hylton was a professor of “The Business of Music” at Kingsborough Community College in Brooklyn. As a result, his course provided students with his first hand experience of navigating the music industry – from signing deals, obtaining sponsorships, and artist development.
Recently, Hylton was recognized as a top hip-hop executive by Billboard. “I think the biggest lesson is that you don’t have to be a sucka or do corny s**t to be recognized,” he shared. “Just be a good person and do your job, and God will make the rest happen on his time.”
Today’s Hop Hop share our condolences with Hylton’s family, friends and associates at this challenging time.
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