Chad Hugo Takes You To The Gold Gala 2023 In This Photo Diary |

Follow the Grammy Award-winning Filipino-American songwriter as he gets ready to attend one of the biggest events for AAPI recognition.

Now in its second year, the Gold Gala celebrates the A100 list, which recognizes 100 personalities of Asian Pacific descent who have made an impact on culture and society. As one of the biggest events celebrating Asian-American Pacific Islander (AAPI) heritage, the Gold Gala sees prominent Asian Pacific names in industries such as entertainment, design, fashion and beauty, sports, commerce, and politics come together for a night of celebrating AAPI achievement and excellence.

Among the event’s esteemed attendees, this year is Grammy-Award-winning, multi-platinum producer and multi-instrumentalist Chad Hugo. The Filipino-American songwriter is best known as the man behind the scenes of the duo The Neptunes, the powerhouse producer behind the artists such as Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Kelis, and Britney Spears. Hugo is also one of the founding members of N.E.R.D. along with Williams and Shay Haley. Most recently, Hugo was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame along with Williams for their production work over the years.

Hugo gave Vogue Philippines an exclusive look into his preparation for the Gold Gala this year. From the importance of wearing AAPI-designed clothing to the event, to his pre-red carpet rituals and even a moment with Filipino actress Lea Salonga, Hugo shares his favorite moments from the Gold Gala through this photo diary.

Photo by Jake Cloobeck
1/9
Quick session of Zumba with the pupils before I head out.
Photo by Jake Cloobeck
2/9
The full look! It was really important for me to wear a look to the event designed by someone in the AAPI community. This Yuki Hashimoto suit picked by Toreno was an easy choice.
Photo by Jake Cloobeck
3/9
So many great choices here! Which one to pick?
Photo by Jake Cloobeck
4/9
Taking a moment to take in the LA view before I leave for the event. Being born and raised on the East Coast, I always love coming to visit this energetic city.
Photo by Jake Cloobeck
5/9
Breathing in on a second tier. LA views are the best. Especially at sunset.
Photo by Monica Schipper/Getty
6/9
On the gold carpet! So happy to be here and to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month and everyone being honored.
Photo by Jake Cloobeck
7/9
Takin’ a breather moment before the Gold Gala. Usually I’m in a studio so these red carpet events are always nice to come out to whenever possible.
Photo by Jake Cloobeck
8/9
Randall Park keeps it lit. I’m a fan of his and all of the work he has done. Happy I got to see him tonight.
Photo by Jake Cloobeck
9/9
It’s been Salonga time since I last heard that song. Love any opportunities to see the amazing Lea Salonga, a household name since I was a kid. Lil mermaid, Jasmine magical tunes magical voice.