Justin Tinsley

Justin Tinsley, a sports and culture writer for ESPN, dives deep into the NFL’s troubling diversity issues. He discusses the stark contrast between the predominantly Black player base and its overwhelmingly white leadership. Tinsley critiques the Rooney Rule, highlighting its ineffectiveness in fostering true diversity. With recent hires like DeMeco Ryans, he questions whether these changes signify progress or merely cosmetic adjustments. The conversation also reflects on the significance of having two Black quarterbacks in the upcoming Super Bowl amid ongoing disparities.

Five years ago, Los Angeles rapper Nipsey Hussle released Victory Lap, his only full length album. It was the high point of a career stretching back to the mid 2000s, when Hussle started releasing mixtapes on his own record label — mixtapes that brought him respect from artists like Jay-Z and Kendrick Lamar, but were not widely heard. Victory Lap brought him both the critical acclaim and commercial success he deserved — It hit #2 on the Billboard 200, and was nominated for a Grammy for Best Rap Album. But only a little over a year after its release, Hussle was shot to death outside his clothing store and community center in Crenshaw. In some ways, Hussle’s tragic end has overshadowed his incredible life as a musician and community activist.In this conversation with Justin Tinsley, host of the podcast King of Crenshaw, we listen deeply to Victory Lap to hear Nipsey’s identity as an artist and consider the legacy of his debut album on its 5th anniversary.Songs DiscussedNipsey Hussle - Victory Lap, Dedication, Hussle and Motivate, Last Time That I Checc'd, Real BigArctic Monkeys - Knee SocksJay-Z - Hard Knock LifeSnoop Dogg - Y'all Gone Miss MeMoreListen to the King of Crenshaw podcast.Check out more of Justin's work Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices