Nipsey Hussle

I’ll be honest. I listened to Nipsey Hussle before he was shot and murdered. But, I wasn’t a fan. I think he has skills as a rapper. But, he has too many songs with auto tune for my taste. I’d rather you keep it raw and real. I’m not hating though, because it’s popular these days. Although I do think he has great lyrics and is one of those next level writers. He didn't rap about the normal stuff, he kept it real and wrote about life. 

I’m not writing because of his rapping skills though. As a 42 year old man, I remember every rapper since the mid 80s. Kool Moe Dee was the first rapper I remember, besides rapper’s delight. With Wild Wild West and How you Like me Now he was a pioneer, trust me. Run DMC, LL Cool J, Eazy E, Cube, Dre, Tupac, Biggie, Wutang, Eminem, etc. I have experienced the entire revolution. What I have found is that there are leaders and there are followers. There are also specific pockets of time with multiple legendary rappers. While there are also gaps of talent through other periods. Why is that?

Nipsey was special though. I can only remember a few times when an rap artist had this impact when he died. Of course Eazy E, Pac and Biggie are the most famous. But, there have been others. Nipsey’s impact on people seem to have eclipsed everyone except Tupac. Look, there are YouTube videos of Biggies memorial, Epic! As they should have been. What a gifted man. But, his work in the community or society is limited compared to Tupac. Tupac to manly didn’t represent peace. But, he did speak to a generation and make an impact on society.

I drove down Slauson the day after Nipsey’s death. As I exited the 110 freeway it’s sad. Abandoned buildings and homeless. Graffiti everywhere. For Nipsey Hussle to be hanging out at his clothing store where he was shot? Nothing short of extreme courage. I give him extra credit for that courage. It border lines epic proportions to past leaders. All because he wanted to help his community. He’s the first artist thatI can remember that had everyone’s endorsement. Unanimous! Rappers, athletes, hollywood, fans, and the police department! Yes, unheard of. Especially for a former LA Crip.

Being a former crip, he should have been more careful. There is a lot of pride out there. Some find satisfaction being haters. Nipsey should have protected himself better. But, that wouldn’t be real. As a rap fan, it brings back bad memories of the past. It also robs society of someone special. From what I’ve learned? Nipsey Hussle was a special man. I don’t known that much. He could have committed crime I would consider unforgivable. But, if he didn’t murder anyone? He still can be a leader. All indications I’ve seen are that Nipsey was determined to right his wrongs. I can’t criticize that. I just wish that we didn’t have to deal with this again.