With Nipsey Hussle's untimely and tragic passing so fresh in the collective consciousness of every individual touched by his light and his life, it's important to step back and formally acknowledge the numerous contributions he made to both hip-hop and his community as a whole. A multi-hyphenate success whose resume boasted titles such as philanthropist, community activist, rapper, father, businessman and entrepreneur, Nipsey's intelligence and formidable work ethic transported him to the top of whatever grind he threw himself into. With his generous spirit now reaching far beyond the streets of Los Angeles that he once loved so dearly, it's time for the supporters of Nipsey's impressive discography and public works to appreciate the lasting impact left behind by the "Grindin' All My Life" rapper.
With countless prayer calls and social media posts offered up in the wake of Nipsey's death from the public and A-listers alike, it's evident that the 33-year-old will be mourned in passing just as fiercely as he was loved in life. Whether you're a longtime fan of Nipsey's climb to the top or a newcomer eager to offer respect for the man's legacy and the honorable way in which he carried himself, set aside a moment to reflect on the good that Nipsey so selflessly gave to those around him.
"That's what it's about," Nipsey once said of his drive to better his community triumphing over money, luxury and fast cars. "Adding something to the game that people can take from. More than a lot of the things that we considered a success. I know in my heart that it’s a higher power and a higher value to what we can do," he continued. "The times we do it right and it connects and it has that effect on people; that's really, really fulfilling.”
Keep reading below for ten examples of Nipsey's impact on his community as well as those who were privileged to have met and worked with the Hussle.
Doing It For The Kids
Pictured here, Nipsey stands proud with his brother in celebration of their philanthropic efforts at 59th Street Elementary School. Nipsey helped to refurbish and repaint basketball courts at the school, that will have a lasting impact on the children.
Grind
Although he enjoyed the luxuries of fame, money and influence, Nipsey never abandoned the grind and forgot where he came from. In this Instagram post, Nipsey reminded his followers that while you can always make excuses for your lack of success, if you're dedicated enough-- you will find a way to turn your dreams into reality.
Cut From A Different Cloth
In this video clip shared by Colin Kaepernick, it's clear that Nipsey Hussle was one of the few celebrities willing to turn a blind eye to the trappings of wealth in exchange for long-lasting prosperity.
Obama
"Nipsey saw potential. He saw hope," wrote President Obama in a letter dedicated to uplifting Nipsey's legacy. "He saw a community that, even through its flaws, taught him to always keep going."
Community
After he hit it big, Nipsey refused to "ride off into the sunset." Instead, he put down roots in the streets that he called home and focused on the ways in which he could make them better.
A Man of Truth
"Thank you for always speaking your TRUTH!!!!" wrote Sza in remembrance of Nip. "I’m so grateful for everything you’ve ever taught me and ppl like me from just watching you speak and listening to ur music."
True King
"God just lost a Son, a son just lost his father, a family just lost their king & hip hop just lost one of their elite," wrote Luda in an Instagram post dedicated to remembering Nipsey's legacy. "One of the Greatest overall MEN I’ve ever encountered in my life. He was always Leading by example by rebuilding his community. The entire Hip hop community and the World 🌎 is Numb. 🙏🏽🙏🏽"
Partner
Lauren London, Nipsey's longtime love with whom he shared a child had nothing but great things to say about the man who served as her protector, partner, and sanctuary.
"I am completely lost I’ve lost my best friend My sanctuary My protector My soul.... I’m lost without you We are lost without you babe I have no words," she wrote on Instagram.
Legend
"You took that Victory Lap here on earth...spreading knowledge, truth, sparking inspiration...creating opportunity & advancing our community and its youth’s minds in your music and most importantly—outside of it," wrote Keri Hilson in tribute to Nip. "You took it upon your shoulders and walked your talk. Now it’s time we carry the torch for you in this Marathon of cyclical damage you were living to undo. You are a legend, and we will never forget your affect."
Rest In Peace
"The world loses a true king," wrote The Game in a lengthy post dedicated to his longtime friend. "A man that was truly about everything he spoke & stood up for all that he believed in."