Ermias Joseph Asghedom, better known as Nipsey Hussle, wasn’t just a rapper; he was a role model, an entrepreneur and an influence on all ages. His life, from the streets of LA to mass fame due to his dedication and talent, will influence generations to come.
Born on August 15, 1985, in the Crenshaw District of Los Angeles, Hussle grew up around gangs and street life, joining the Rollin 60 Crips, when he was younger. But after being inspired by artists like Snoop Dogg and Jay Z, he saw music as a way out. This led Hussle to start his rap career in the mid 2000’s.
In 2005, Hussle’s mixtape Slauson Boy Volume 1 gained a lot of notice locally, but it was not until Bullets Ain’t Got No Name that he blew up with recognition in the West Coast rap scene.
In his career, Hussle always focused on independence and didn’t look for a deal with a major label. His groundbreaking Crenshaw mixtape in 2013, which he had sold for $100 per copy, caught the attention of Jay Z, who was someone that Hussle always looked up to. Jay Z ended up buying one hundred copies of the mixtape in support.
Beyond music, Hussle was an entrepreneur. He invested in real estate, opened his clothing business, The Marathon Clothing Store, and launched STEM education programs for the inner city youth in his neighborhood. His “buy back the block” mentality promoted financial literacy for other Black entrepreneurs.
In 2018, Hussle released his studio album, Victory Lap, which was critically acclaimed and earned him a Grammy nomination. During this time, he was in a public relationship with the actress Lauren London, and the couple shared a son, Kross Ermias Asghedom, who they welcomed into the world in 2016. But despite all of Hussle’s success, he never pulled his heart away from Crenshaw and always looked to bring people up.
But sadly, on March 31, 2019, Nipsey Hussle was fatally shot outside of his clothing store at just 33 years of age. News of his death spread like wildfire and broke the hearts of millions worldwide. This death was especially painful for the members of his community, because he was so widely respected for his contributions, motivation and heart. They held his funeral at Staples Center (now known as Crypto.com Arena), with thousands of people attending, including celebrities, community leaders, friends and family.
Hussle’s legacy will live on through his music, his business ventures and the programs he started. His life and his influence will inspire future generations to chase their dreams, and not to forget to give back to their communities, because they help shape the person you will become.
