Victory Lap Archives - New Hip Hop News

What Is Nipsey Hussle’s Best-Selling Song?

November 13, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Nipsey Hussle left an indelible mark on the hip-hop industry. The revered West Coast MC’s legacy is carried through his profound lyricism, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to his community. Among his many accomplishments, “Double Up,” featuring Belly and Dom Kennedy, stands out as one of his best-selling songs, achieving an impressive 3x platinum status. This article delves into the success of “Double Up” and the broader context of Nipsey Hussle’s acclaimed album, Victory Lap.

The Journey To Platinum: Decoding The Success Of “Double Up”

Released as part of Nipsey Hussle’s critically acclaimed album Victory Lap in 2018, “Double Up” quickly became a fan favorite. The track’s success can be attributed to a combination of factors. These include its catchy production, Hussle’s charismatic delivery, and the collaborative efforts of featured artists Belly and Dom Kennedy. The song’s infectious beat, produced by heavyweights DJ Mustard and Murda Beatz, provided the perfect backdrop for Nipsey Hussle’s introspective lyrics.

“Double Up” showcased Hussle’s storytelling prowess, recounting his journey from humble beginnings to success in the rap game. The inclusion of Belly and Dom Kennedy added depth to the track, creating a synergy that resonated with listeners. The chemistry between the artists and the authenticity of their verses contributed to the song’s widespread acclaim.

The music video for “Double Up” further fueled its success. Directed by Sergio, the video featured a cinematic narrative that complemented the song’s theme, offering a visual representation of Nipsey Hussle’s hustle and grind. The video, which included a cameo from the late rapper’s partner, Lauren London, struck a chord with fans and added a poignant layer to the song’s narrative.

The platinum certification of “Double Up” underscored its mainstream appeal and the enduring impact of Nipsey Hussle’s artistry and the catalog of songs he left behind. Achieving 3x platinum status is a testament to the song’s longevity and its ability to resonate with a broad audience. Even beyond the numbers, “Double Up” became a cultural touchstone, solidifying Nipsey Hussle’s legacy as a visionary artist.

Victory Lap: A Culmination Of Excellence

LOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 07: Nipsey Hussle performs onstage at the Warner Music Pre-Grammy Party at the NoMad Hotel on February 7, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for Warner Music)

“Double Up” was not an isolated success but rather a jewel in the crown of Nipsey Hussle’s Grammy-nominated album, Victory Lap. Released in February 2018, the album marked a significant milestone in Hussle’s career. It not only garnered critical acclaim but also earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album.

The album served as a culmination of Hussle’s years of dedication to his craft. With features from notable artists like YG, Kendrick Lamar, and Puff Daddy, Victory Lap showcased Hussle’s ability to seamlessly blend street narratives with insightful commentary on life and success. The album’s production, handled by a roster of top-tier producers, contributed to its polished and cohesive sound.

Victory Lap was more than just a musical project; it was a declaration of triumph over adversity. Hussle’s journey from the streets of South Los Angeles to Grammy recognition was a testament to his resilience and determination. The album’s success and critical acclaim elevated Nipsey Hussle to a new echelon within the rap industry. Through this, he solidified his status as a revered figure.

Legacy Beyond Platinum: Nipsey Hussle’s Impact

The success of “Double Up” and the broader acclaim of Victory Lap underscored Nipsey Hussle’s enduring impact on the hip-hop landscape. His commitment to authenticity, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment resonated with fans and fellow artists alike. In the wake of his tragic passing in March 2019, Nipsey Hussle’s legacy continued to grow. “Double Up” remains a poignant reminder of his artistic brilliance.

“Double Up” not only achieved platinum status but became a symbol of Nipsey Hussle’s unwavering dedication to his craft. As fans continue to celebrate his life and contributions, the song stands as a testament to the timeless nature of his art. Nipsey Hussle may have left this world, but his influence endures through the music, messages, and impact he left behind. “Double Up” remains a shining example of the triumphs that can arise from talent, hard work, and an unyielding commitment to one’s principles.

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Nipsey Hussle’s 7 Underrated Songs

November 7, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Nipsey Hussle came onto the scene prepared to dominate when he released his debut mixtape in 2005, Slauson Boy Volume 1. From that moment up until his untimely demise in 2019, the rapper was unyielding in the quality of the music he released. Nipsey Hussle is certainly remembered for iconic songs like “Hussle & Motivate” and “Blue Laces 2.” However, more attention should be paid to mixtape cuts and non-single releases. There lies a treasure trove of hidden gems deep inside his discography. With one studio album and over a dozen mixtapes to his name, Nip built an extensive music catalog. As his legacy continues to live on, here’s a list of seven of his most underrated songs that deserve more shine.

7. “Succa Proof” Ft. Koshens & J. Black (2018)

Nipsey Hussle released his critically acclaimed debut album, Victory Lap, in 2018, and it’s songs like “Succa Proof” that make it so great. While the song is mostly overshadowed by bigger songs like “Hussle & Motivate” and “Dedication,” its contribution to the overall listening experience of Victory Lap cannot be overstated. In fact, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that the double-platinum album wouldn’t be the same without “Succa Proof.” Jamaican dancehall artist Koshens adds an interesting flavor to the song. Alongside the hard-hitting beat, Koshens’ verse is one of the highlights of the song, despite how short it is.

6. “Go Long” Ft. Z-Ro & Slim Thug (2013)

“Go Long” appears on one of the MC’s most lauded mixtapes, Crenshaw. It is one of the underrated tracks on the 21-track project and showcases Nip’s lyrical prowess greatly. He rode the beat effortlessly, spitting clever bars with confidence and bravado. Admittedly, the production on the track is not as refined as those of his later works. However, Nip and his two collaborators, Houston legends Z-Ro and Slim Thug, made up for it by delivering stellar verses and hooks. Overall, “Go Long” stands as an integral song in Nipsey Hussle’s catalog.

5. “Mr. Untouchable” Ft. Kokane (2010)

Featured on his fifth mixtape The Marathon, “Mr. Untouchable” is Nipsey Hussle at his most confident. However, the song also sees the MC being quite vulnerable, albeit stoically. Like on many of his songs, Nipsey Hussle featured an artist yet again on “Mr. Untouchable.” This time, it’s rapper/singer Kokane who lays his smooth vocals on the hook of the song. Notwithstanding, “Mr. Untouchable” deserves more attention, and this is your cue to check it out.

4. “Basic Instinct” Ft. G Perico (2016)

With a runtime of 1:36, this track is the shortest on the Slauson Boy 2 mixtape. Its length is not a determinant of its quality though. Still, it’s surprisingly one of the standout tracks on the entire 17-track project. On “Basic Instinct,” Nipsey Hussle and G Perico don’t disappoint. Within a little over a minute and a half, both rappers go as hard as they can and successfully deliver memorable verses. “Basic Instinct” is a deep cut that certainly deserves more love.

3. “Status Symbol 2” Ft. Buddy (2016)

Also featured on Slauson Boy 2, “Status Symbol 2” is the 2-minute gem that comes right before “Basic Instinct” on the tracklist. On the song, Nipsey Hussle matched the energy of the gritty beat and didn’t spare a single bar in his verse. Following Nipsey’s rap verse, Buddy, with about 30 seconds left, sings the hook, layered with lush harmonies. The only problem with “Status Symbol 2” is that we wish it were longer.

2. “Face The World” (2013)

When Nipsey Hussle released the Crenshaw mixtape in October 2013, it was songs like “Face The World” that made it unforgettable. The track was initially released on May 23, 2013, as the lead single from the project, although it subsequently became a minor hit. However, OG fans of Nipsey Hussle cherish “Face The World.” However, it is still underrated compared to other of the rapper’s hit songs. Without a doubt, “Face the World” is one of Nipsey Hussle’s most iconic songs, and it should be widely known.

1. “The Field” Ft. Bino Rideaux And Young Dolph (2016)

Slauson Boy 2 is unquestionably one of Nipsey Hussle’s greatest works. While “The Field” is recognized as a standout track from the mixtape, it’s often buried when Nip’s entire discography is considered. Regardless, it is important to give it the spotlight it deserves. Nipsey, alongside Bino Rideaux and Young Dolph, brought their A-game for sure. In summary, when great songs by Nipsey Hussle are mentioned, “The Field” should make the cut every time.

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The post Nipsey Hussle’s 7 Underrated Songs appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Nipsey Hussle’s “Victory Lap” Almost Didn’t Get Released, MyGuyMars Recalls

April 4, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Nipsey Hussle‘s 2018 album Victory Lap almost didn’t happen, according to MyGuyMars. The producer reflected on the making of Nipsey’s iconic album during a recent interview with HipHopDX. He explained to the outlet that almost everyone working on it was unsure it would ever be finished.

“I definitely remember the conversations [about Victory Lap] from Nip, but I remember more-so the conversations from everybody else saying it’s not coming out,” MyGuyMars told interviewer Jeremy Hecht. “It was crazy because he had an era where he was low-key blackballed and then you know, a gangsta from L.A. is not the most accepted internationally. So it was like the odds were really against us so we had to do more than anybody else to break these records, to break him.”

Nipsey Hussle Performing At The BET Awards

LOS ANGELES, CA – JUNE 24: Nipsey Hussle performs onstage at Live! Red! Ready! Pre-Show, sponsored by Nissan, at the 2018 BET Awards at Microsoft Theater on June 24, 2018, in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for BET)

He continued: “It was even songs like the songs that y’all hear now. We had to go in and really treat ourselves like if we were the other producers. We were competing with ourselves. Like take the beat out and do another beat or take the vocal and try something else. So I think with Nipsey having that energy and us challenging each other, that’s what made the songs the greatest songs and the greatest stories and people feel like, ‘Dang, I’m riding on Crenshaw right now,’ or, ‘I could see the songs and it sound like it look!’ Because he was very intentional like you said about how he wanted to convey the things and because we knew that info we were able to convey it sonically.”

He also explained that there was pressure to “create the best that you can” while in the studio for the project. From there, MyGuyMars revealed that the team took influence from Dr. Dre and his work on Doggystyle and The Chronic. “We studied what Dre was doing with Doggystyle, The Chronic. These are classic projects and we wanted to do a classic project and that was Nip’s whole thing. He was like, ‘In order to do a classic project, I have to have my main producers and establish a sound.’ So like anything that happened, it came through us. Even if it was outside producers – if we had to retouch the beats, if we had to remake the beats. But that’s why I feel like the energy was so fire because you had to come with your A-game or don’t come in the studio.”

MyGuyMars On The Making Of “Victory Lap”

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Nipsey Hussle’s ‘Victory Lap’ Tallies 100 Overall Weeks On The ‘Billboard’ Albums Chart

July 7, 2021 by newhiphopnews

More than three years ago, Nipsey Hussle released his official debut album, Victory Lap, which arrived after years of critically acclaimed mixtapes including The Marathon Continues, Crenshaw, and Mailbox Money. The 16-track effort would become of the best hip-hop releases of that year and it later earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album. Now it’s earned a new milestone: Its 100th overall week on the Billboard album chart.

It’s a feat few artists today have achieved, and it demonstrates the power Nipsey has continued to exude well after his untimely death. The album’s success started with its release, as it debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200. It was later certified Platinum at the beginning of 2020.

The news comes after an announcement that revealed Nipsey would receive a posthumous star on Hollywood’s Walk Of Fame in 2022. Next year’s class of inductees also includes Ashanti, Black Eyed Peas, DJ Khaled, and late actress, producer, and writer Carrie Fisher. Nipsey’s star joins previous hip-hop inductees like Snoop Dogg, Missy Elliott, and 50 Cent.

Nipsey’s alleged killer, Eric Holder, still remains behind bars on a murder charge. Despite it being more than two years since the shooting, a trail for the murder has not begun.

Nipsey Hussle is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.