Nipsey Hu$$le
by: Dillon Leung
The late rapper Nipsey Hussle influenced many people through his platform as a songwriter and touched many through his art. Born in the Crenshaw neighborhood of South Los Angeles on August 15, 1985 under the name of Ermias Davidson Asghedom, he was raised by his parents in L.A. Nipsey began working on music throughout his teenage years and in 2005, he released his first mixtape: Slauson Boy Volume 1. He took on his stage name after a friend used the comic name Nipsey Russell as inspiration for a new nickname. As Hussle began to grow in fame, he collaborated with a number of well known artists throughout his career including Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and Meek Mill, and Rick Ross. In late 2010, Hussle founded his own record label, All Money In, and released “The Marathon,” the record’s first mixtape. In 2013, Hussle released “Crenshaw” which he sold at $100 per cassette. Due to his talent and first studio album, Victory Lap, Hussle was nominated earlier this year for best rap album at the Grammys, but lost to Cardi B.
Unpredictably, Hussle’s life was cut short on March 31st, 2019 when he was shot down in front of one of his clothing stores near Slauson Avenue and Crenshaw Boulevard. He was 33-years old. He was one of three victims and was pronounced dead upon arrival to the hospital. The other two victims are currently in stable condition according to authorities. The police have identified Eric Holder, a suspected gang member, as a suspect and arrested him in connection to the violent attack. The 29-year old was said to have connections with Hussle and had engaged in conversation with him previously that same day so the shooting may have been personally motivated. The police are currently investigating and have yet to release any new results.
Hussle leaves behind his son, Kross, and his daughter, Emani, as well as his longtime girlfriend Lauren London. His death has sent waves across social media, causing many famous celebrities such as Steph Curry, Rihanna, and Lebron James to comment on the impact he had on their lives and those around him. Fans from around the world have come together to commemorate his life through murals, vigils, and other artwork.
Hussle’s death has also brought the issue of gun control into the spotlight and the LAPD has stated that an office of violence prevention would be established in order to crackdown on gun violence and help support affected families. Many have already used this tragic incident to support stricter gun laws and increase pressure on Congress and the President.
Hussle’s untimely death has affected thousands of people from around the globe, many of them saddened to lose their hero. Hussle’s legacy will continue in the form of his music and the significant impact it has on its audience.