Nipsey Hussle, a Los Angeles icon from South Crenshaw, shares his journey of growing up in a vibrant community shaped by gang culture. It explores his music career, grassroots promotion, and creating resonating music.
Nipsey Hustle learned the importance of inclusivity in his music after community criticism for romanticizing gang culture in his song 'Hustle in the House'.
Growing up in Crenshaw, Nipsey Hustle found a sense of community and a pathway to success through basketball in his neighborhood, despite the presence of gang activity.
Deep dives
Nipsey Hustle's excitement about hearing his song on the radio
Nipsey Hustle was thrilled to hear his song 'Hustle in the House' played on the radio in his hometown. It was a major moment for him as he eagerly called to check on its reception. However, due to references to the Rollin' 60s Crips gang in the lyrics, community leaders criticized the song for romanticizing gang culture. Consequently, the decision was made to remove the record, which was a difficult choice for Nipsey's colleague, Debbie Brown, who had to deliver the news to him. The experience taught Nipsey the importance of inclusivity in his music and that he couldn't exclude others with his lyrics.
Nipsey Hustle's upbringing in Crenshaw
Nipsey Hustle grew up in Crenshaw, a historic heart of Black Los Angeles. He lived with his mother, brother, and grandmother in a two-bedroom house. Nipsey's father, originally from East Africa, emphasized educating his sons about their heritage and African history. Nipsey learned about his neighborhood, its gang activity, and the sense of community that existed alongside it. Basketball was a major part of his childhood, providing camaraderie and a pathway to success.
The allure and complexities of gang culture in South LA
Nipsey Hustle, his brother, and their friends found themselves drawn to gang culture in South LA, seeking protection, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging. They recognized that gang life had both negative and positive aspects. It offered support within the community while also perpetuating violence and territorial conflicts. Nipsey's involvement in the Rollin' 60s Crips provided him with lifelong friends, collaborators in music and business. However, the dangers and potential consequences of gang life were never far from their minds.
Nipsey Hustle's journey into music and the importance of his lyrics
Nipsey Hustle and his brother Sam made a pivotal decision to invest in music equipment by selling a car. They formed Slauson Boy Records and began promoting Nipsey's music through business cards, flyers, and posters. Nipsey's lyrics were raw and authentic, often centered around his experiences with gang culture. He aimed to impact listeners by offering a perspective on their own lives and aspirations, and he saw music as a way to inspire others to rise above their circumstances.
Nipsey Hussle is a Los Angeles icon, but what’s the story behind that? Before the fame, he was Ermias Asghedom, a young kid coming of age in the South Crenshaw district. Life in South LA was beautiful, but it wasn’t for the weak of heart either. This episode is a look into the world that raised, bruised, and ultimately made Nipsey Hussle the man he became.