Does New Zealand truly appreciate the man behind the rap name Nipsey Hussle, or understand the impact of his death?
I don't think we do.
Nipsey Hussle, aka Nip, aka Hussle, aka Ermias Asghedom, was more than a Grammy-nominated, American rapper, who claimed a gang.
He was an entrepreneur who sold a mixtape ahead of the release of his debut album for $100, he was a businessman, he was a partner to long-time actress and model girlfriend, Lauren London and he was a father. Even further to that, Nipsey Hussle was an activist, a visionary, a peace advocate respected by many, even those from rival gangs, and his death has reignited the conversation around the need for tighter gun controls. He was a movement!
Nipsey Hussle was gunned down outside his clothing store, The Marathon Clothing, in south Los Angeles on March 31. Ever since that day tributes have consistently flowed from his music industry peers highlighting his talents, loyalty, his love of his family, his authenticity and his passion for peace. NBA stars James Harden, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Russell Westbrook are just a few of the names in the game to also pay tribute to the slain rapper.