Talk with Nipsey Hussle

Nipsey Hussle, born Ermias Joseph Asghedom on August 15, 1985, was an American rapper, entrepreneur, and community activist. He emerged from the West Coast hip hop scene in the mid-2000s and was best known for his mixtapes, particularly his 'Bullets Ain't Got No Name' series, 'The Marathon,' 'The Marathon Continues,' and 'Crenshaw.' His 2018 debut studio album, "Victory Lap," received critical acclaim and was nominated for Best Rap Album at the 2019 Grammy Awards.

Beyond music, Nipsey was notable for his efforts to invest in his community. Born and raised in the Crenshaw neighborhood of South Los Angeles, he was deeply involved in local development projects. In 2017, he opened the Marathon Clothing store, which was not only a business venture but also an innovative technology-friendly space for community gatherings. He was also involved in create community-based entrepreneurial opportunities and had plans for residential developments to combat homelessness.

Tragically, Nipsey Hussle was shot and killed on March 31, 2019, outside his Marathon Clothing store. His death was widely mourned both in his community and internationally, highlighting his impact not only as a musician but as a community leader and activist. His legacy continues to influence and inspire many, particularly in terms of community engagement and empowerment.

Nipsey Hussle was not only a rapper but also a shrewd entrepreneur who owned and invested in several businesses. One of his most notable business ventures was the Marathon Clothing store, which he founded in 2017. Located at the intersection of Slauson Avenue and Crenshaw Boulevard in South Los Angeles, the store was more than just a retail outlet; it was a community hub and a symbol of Hussle's commitment to his neighborhood.

Besides Marathon Clothing, Nipsey was involved in other entrepreneurial endeavors. He had investments in the local real estate market, including a co-ownership in the strip mall where The Marathon Clothing store was located. He had plans to redevelop this strip mall into a mixed-use commercial and residential complex.

Additionally, Nipsey Hussle was passionate about the tech world. He was an early investor in the co-working space Vector 90, which aimed to link young talent from impoverished neighborhoods with opportunities in Silicon Valley. His vision included fostering a bridge between the inner cities and the booming tech industries.

Through these ventures and his strategic partnerships, Nipsey Hussle demonstrated a keen interest in lifting up his community economically and providing opportunities for others.

Nipsey Hussle was influenced by a mix of classic soul, funk, and hip-hop artists. He frequently cited Snoop Dogg as a significant influence, both musically and in terms of persona. Other major influences included Tupac Shakur, for his raw emotional energy and powerful lyrics dealing with social issues, and Ice Cube, whose storytelling and boldness had a big impact on Nipsey's approach to music.

He also drew inspiration from the music of the 1970s and 1980s, including artists like Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder, which influenced the soulful elements in his music. Additionally, Nipsey looked up to Jay-Z as a business model and artist, admiring his evolution from a street-savvy rapper to a global business mogul, which resonated with Nipsey's own aspirations in the music industry and his entrepreneurial ventures.

Nipsey Hussle died from gunshot wounds on March 31, 2019. He was shot outside his store, Marathon Clothing, in South Los Angeles. His untimely death at the age of 33 was widely mourned and had a significant impact on his community and fans around the world.

Nipsey Hussle's father, Dawit Asghedom, played a significant role in his life, shaping his values and perspective in vital ways. Dawit, an Eritrean immigrant to the United States, instilled in Nipsey a strong sense of cultural identity and heritage. This influence was evident in Nipsey's music and public persona, where he often highlighted his Eritrean roots and the broader African diaspora.

Moreover, by sharing his experiences and the history of Eritrea, Dawit helped Nipsey understand the importance of resilience and the value of hard work. These teachings likely influenced Nipsey's entrepreneurial spirit and his community-focused initiatives, as he frequently used his platform to uplift his community and promote economic empowerment. Nipsey's visit to Eritrea with his father in 2004 was a pivotal experience for him, deepening his connections to his heritage and reinforcing the values his father had taught him. This trip also provided inspiration for many aspects of his career and humanitarian outlook.

Nipsey Hussle was very proud of his Eritrean heritage, as his father emigrated from Eritrea to the United States. He often expressed pride in his roots and connected with his culture in various ways, which included visiting Eritrea. It's not specifically documented if he owned an Eritrean flag, but given his deep connection and pride in his heritage, it would not be surprising if he did.

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