WASHINGTON (FinalCall.com)—Put charismatic congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), hip hop guru Russell Simmons (founder, Def Jam Records), Master P. (New No Limit/Universal Records), Sylvia Rhone (chairman and CEO, Elecktra Entertainment Group), Andre Harrell (Uptown Records), rapper Dougie E. Fresh and actor Wesley Snipes in the same room and you’ve got a creative force that could help produce global economic and social change.

The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) braintrust, "Young, Gifted and Black: The Hip Hop Economy—How Hip Hop Has Influenced the Arts, Culture and Wall Street," filled the room with hundreds of people ages 7-75 who were interested in the future of hip hop. Parents age 40 and above reached back to 1982 and shared stories of the birth of urban street pain and poverty that gave rise to this new form of cultural expression. New York became the haven for break dancing, dee-jaying and battling over the microphone; and young people began to mix their feelings with music.

For many, Russell Simmons is viewed as the foremost person in the development of hip hop with the global economy. A savvy businessman, his music investments have reached into the fashion industry, advertising and, most recently, Motorola mobile communications.

Wall Street executives and Hollywood producers are beating down rap artists’ doors to get in on this new million-dollar industry. Many rap artists at the workshop initially said that they viewed themselves as limited, however, because of the global impact of rap music, this has changed their perception and understanding of the dynamics of a diversified global economy.

"Hip hop artists have boosted the American and world economies which represents a tremendous return on the investment dollar," said 27-year-old Jonathan Greer from Gary, Ind. "For some, it has created a problem because young people everywhere, Africa, Europe, Asia and America, are all connected to this one art form. We’ve selected the voice that will speak for us, and for some, this poses a threat," he added.

Russell Simmons, Sylvia Rhone and Master P. were recognized for their contribution to this free form of music and brilliant business ventures; however, many young people questioned the panel’s responsibility on morality, the mistreatment of women, profanity and nudity.

"As a parent, I place restrictions on my son," said Master P. "And, while creativity is a must for this industry, we have to keep it real," he added.

Just recently, it was reported that Bill O’Reilly of Fox’s "The O’Reilly Factor" questioned Pepsi airing commercials that included rapper Ludacris. O’Reilly called Ludacris "a rap thug," and Pepsi dropped him. This type of activity is viewed by many as a potential political attack on young people because of their global social, political and cultural appeal. A raging debate is ongoing with some members of Congress who are suggesting censorship, which could eliminate an entertainer’s the right to earn a living.

Panelists allowed several young people to audition and told them to set high standards for themselves and to set individual goals.

"Remember, think investment, think future, think entrepreneurship and work hard. Take ownership in the company that you work with and be creative. You’ll find that not only will you grow as an individual, but your company will, too," said Russell Simmons.