Nipsey Hussle was only 33 when he was shot and killed on March 31.
Photo courtesy of GQ Magazine.
His death has left a sour taste in the mouths of many in the hip-hop and Black communities.
Although Hussle was able to reach the masses with his lyrical pieces, it was his Good Samaritan work outside of the music industry that touched and left such a long lasting impact among all who encountered him.
Hussle was a philanthropist who wanted to do no more than uplift his community and the world around him. He had many business ventures that were based out of his own community, and he was also working on a documentary that would tell the story of the late Dr. Sebi.
His businesses included a clothing store, barbershop, learning center for kids and more.
The impact that the rapper left on his community was monumental.
“I’m a young black man from L.A so for some reason this is hitting closer to home because it is home,” said Isaac Ryals III. “It’s the people that are not from the city and culture that place this weird vacation label on my county of L.A but it isn’t to be glorified whatsoever.”
Murals and memorials have been painted throughout L.A. to remember Hussle and all that he had done for the city.
“His music/artistry will live on and be an anthem to individuals on this daily marathon called life,” said Ryals III. “Me being a single father, raising my daughter and everything else that life could/would/did throw, his music was motivation every morning.”
Hussle was able to engrave his legacy in the hearts of cities all over the nation.
“Nipsey obviously had a huge impact on L.A. and his local community, but it is amazing to see his impact on the world as a whole,” said Houston native Marsae Johnson.
Recently, vigils have been hosted by rapper, Dave East in New York City, and rapper Trae the Truth in Houston.
“There were vigils across the nation even in my hometown of Houston hosted by rapper Trae the Truth. So many people came out to mourn his loss and remember his legacy. It just goes to show that you may not be able to change the world at once but you can ignite a spark in others,” said Johnson.
A spark was certainly ignited in others as many celebrities and fans took to the internet to voice their sorrows and reminisce on the late rapper.
Fellow Compton rapper, YG, was one of the many celebrities who voiced his feelings about the death of Hussle.
“We went thru so much s*** together tryna make it out of L.A with this rap sh—, But we always got thru it then talked about it & after we talked. We laughed! You was a real big bro to me no kap. YOU1 of a kind!” said YG in an instagram post.
Though Hussle, a Crip, and YG, a Blood, were members of rival gangs, that did not stop them from developing a close bond.
Prior to his death, Hussle was set to meet with the LAPD to put an end to gang violence.
It is enlightening to know that his untimely death did not prevent the peace of gangs in his community.
On Sunday, April 7 the Bloods and the Crips decided to call a peace truce, the first one to take place since 1992.
The life of Hussle was nothing short of influential and his legacy will be remembered by many.
Hussle’s memorial service is set for Thursday, April 11 at the Staples Center in L.A from 10 a.m. to noon.
Free tickets are available to fans who wish to attend the ‘Celebration of the Life & Legacy of Nipsey Hussle.”