August 15, 1985 – March 31, 2019
Today marks the birth of one of hip-hop’s most influential figures, Ermias Joseph Asghedom, known to the world as Nipsey Hussle. Born on August 15, 1985, in the Crenshaw district of South Central Los Angeles, Nipsey Hussle was more than just a rapper; he was a visionary, an entrepreneur, and a community activist whose impact transcended music.
Nipsey’s journey began in the tough streets of Crenshaw, where he was raised by his African-American mother, Angelique Smith, and his Eritrean father, Dawit Asghedom, who fled to the United States to escape the Eritrean War of Independence. Nipsey, whose birth name was Airmiess Joseph Asghedom, grew up alongside his brother Samiel and sister Samantha. The challenges of his upbringing, including his involvement with the Rollin’ 60s Neighborhood Crips at a young age, would shape his music and his relentless drive to uplift his community.
At 14, Nipsey left home to embrace the street life but also found solace in music, which eventually led him to release his first mixtape, Slauson Boy Volume 1, in 2005. This project marked the beginning of a prolific career that would see him become one of the West Coast’s most respected artists.
Nipsey Hussle’s music career took off with the release of his Bullets Ain’t Got No Name mixtape series, which solidified his presence in the hip-hop scene. He gained further recognition with his mixtapes The Marathon and The Marathon Continues, but it was his 2013 mixtape, Crenshaw, that made headlines. Nipsey famously sold 1,000 hard copies of Crenshaw for $100 each, a move that caught the attention of Jay-Z, who bought 100 copies himself. This unconventional approach was emblematic of Nipsey’s entrepreneurial spirit and his commitment to maintaining control over his music.
After years of anticipation, Nipsey released his debut studio album, Victory Lap, in 2018. The album was met with critical acclaim, earning him a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album. Songs like “Last Time That I Checc’d” and “Dedication” showcased Nipsey’s ability to blend motivational lyrics with West Coast beats, creating an album that was both a celebration of his success and a call to action for his listeners.
Nipsey’s influence extended far beyond the recording studio. In 2017, he opened The Marathon Clothing store at the intersection of Slauson Avenue and Crenshaw Boulevard, in the heart of his neighborhood. The store, described as a “smart store,” combined retail with technology, allowing customers to access exclusive content through an app. More than just a business, The Marathon Clothing store was a symbol of Nipsey’s commitment to reinvesting in his community.
Nipsey also co-founded Vector 90, a co-working space and STEM center aimed at providing opportunities for young people in South Los Angeles. His entrepreneurial ventures were not just about making money; they were about creating a legacy of self-sufficiency and empowerment for his community.
On March 31, 2019, the world was shocked and saddened by the news of Nipsey Hussle’s tragic death. He was fatally shot outside The Marathon Clothing store, a devastating loss for his family, friends, and the countless lives he had touched through his music and activism. Nipsey was only 33 years old, but his impact was immense.
His death sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans, fellow artists, and community leaders. In 2020, Nipsey was posthumously awarded two Grammy Awards for his songs “Racks in the Middle” and “Higher,” further cementing his legacy as a hip-hop icon.
Nipsey Hussle’s legacy is a testament to the power of music, entrepreneurship, and community activism. His message of empowerment and self-determination continues to inspire new generations of artists and entrepreneurs. As we celebrate what would have been his 39th birthday, we remember Nipsey Hussle not just for his music, but for the positive change he brought to his community and the world.
In the words of Nipsey himself, “The Marathon Continues.” His life’s work remains a blueprint for anyone striving to make a difference, proving that while his life was tragically cut short, his influence will endure for years to come.
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