Since Nipsey Hussle's tragic murder yesterday, the hip-hop community has been left reeling. While Nip's death has had a profound effect on many, his friend The Game has been left particularly shaken, and understandably so. Not long after the rapper was shot outside his place of business, Game took to the streets of Los Angeles to clear his head from a grief-riddled bout of insomnia.
He proceeded to document his thoughts, voice thick with emotion. "Driving down Slauson, four in the morning," says Game. "Cause I can't sleep behind what happened to Nip, man! Why n***as do the homie like that man? On his own motherfuckin stop. I'm in own fuckin hood, man. He's trying to do good for n***as man. Shit crazy man, I can't even fucking sleep, I'm disgusted by this shit! That's how ya'll do the homie?! In his own city, in his own hood, in his own place of business!? That's how n***as do n***as man?! LA on some bullshit, on ME!"
The video, which Game posted via his Instagram story late last night (and TMZ since captured), is a difficult listen. Between Game's tear-choked cadence and the bleak reality of his words, it's clear Nipsey's death has left many of his friends and collaborators feeling helpless. It's made especially difficult given that Game and Nipsey checked off both of those boxes, having previously linked up in the studio for Game's own Born To Rap album; though Nip may be gone, it's likely that we'll hear his voice once again, should Game choose to release their collaborations.
Earlier this morning, Game posted another heartfelt tribute to his friend. Drawing back to the time Nipsey originally gave him a demo tape, The Game opened up about their friendship, citing experiences on tour together and shared ambitions for a fruitful 2019. "I keep seeing your name in these headlines bro, but it seems unreal to me.... like, I just cannot believe you gone !!!!" he writes, via IG. "I love you..... I’m really broken & saddened by the fact they did this to you SMMFH !!!!! I can only imagine what your family is going through right now... This was not how your life on earth was supposed to end !!!!!!!!"
Rest in peace, Nipsey. Keep your head up, Game.