Everyone is feeling the unexpected tragic loss of Kobe Bryant, especially those who attended the 62nd Annual GRAMMY Awards last night (Jan 26) at Los Angeles’ Staples Center, otherwise known as the Black Mamba’s former stomping grounds as a loyal Lakers legend. For Meek Mill, who was tasked with paying tribute onstage to another fallen Cali legend, Nipsey Hussle, the feeling was almost too much to maintain. However, along with fellow hitmakers John Legend, Kirk Franklin, DJ Khaled and Roddy Ricch, he pulled through to perform one unforgettable tribute to both of them that won’t soon be forgotten.

Reflecting back on the moment Instagram (seen above), Meek shared a touching flick of all five men looking up at a monitor that broadcasted an image of Nip and Kobe side by side. The fact they were able to add in Bryant at the last minute was a miracle in itself, although it never will truly feel right knowing that we lost two of arguably the most influential people in today’s pop culture to unexplainable fates that still don’t seem real. We can only agree wholeheartedly in regards to Meek’s caption that reads, “NIPSEY X KOBE FOREVER! Even tho this will never look right to me.[sic]” Our sentiments exactly. 

Watch a fan-recorded clip of Meek’s tribute performance to Nipsey at the 2020 GRAMMYs below, and keep both of these men and their families in your prayers: 

Grammy Week has set Los Angeles into a tizzy as the city is overrun with industry parties. People are reuniting, rubbing elbows, and getting downright wild in L.A. leading up to the coveted music ceremony this weekend. The Grammys have announced that they’re set to honor slain rapper Nipsey Hussle during the ceremony with a performance that includes Kirk Franklin, DJ Khaled, John Legend, Meek Mill, Roddy Ricch and YG.

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“An activist, entrepreneur and rapper, Nipsey Hussle had a lasting impact on not just his community, but also the culture at large,” said Ken Ehrlich, GRAMMY Awards executive producer. “There is no denying the influence he had and his legacy will be felt for generations to come. We are honored to bring together this amazing group of artists to celebrate Nipsey’s life and pay tribute to his many contributions to music. It’s sure to be a memorable performance.”

Just ahead of the award show, Lauren London and a handful of Nipsey’s loved ones attended an event where they were presented with the late rapper’s newly certified plaques. The images were initially shared by Karen Civil on her Instagram Story but have since circulated through social media. In one photo, Lauren London is shown posing next to her soulmate’s latest accomplishment.

It’s reported that Nipsey has earned 10 new RIAA certifications including Victory Lap and his Roddy Ricch-assisted “Racks in the Middle” which have both gone platinum. Nipsey is also nominated for three Grammys this year including two for ‘Racks in the Middle” for Best Rap Song and Best Rap Performance, and “Higher” with DJ Khaled and John Legend for Best Rap/Sung Performance. Check out a few flicks below.

The biggest night in music is rapidly approaching as, this Sunday, we will be glued to our television screens to see who will be honored as the biggest movers and shakers of the previous year. We’ve been celebrating music’s most promising young acts, highlighting up-and-coming stars in the industry as they look to make their dreams come true, hopping on stage and accepting a Grammy Award in front of their hard-working peers. It’s a lifelong goal for many to earn the opportunity to thank their families, collaborators, and a higher spirit for an audience of millions watching around the world. Nipsey Hussle, unfortunately, never got the chance to experience that, being celebrated last year for his Victory Lap album but being outmatched by Cardi B‘s strong debut. After sleeping on Nip for years, the Recording Academy is putting on a major celebration of Hussle’s being, enlisting some of his most frequent collaborators and friends to issue what will surely be an unforgettable tribute to his life and legacy.

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According to a press release by the Recording Academy, the Nipsey Hussle Grammy tribute will include performances and appearances from the rapper’s close friend YG, his “Higher” teammates John Legend and DJ Khaled, his boy Meek Mill, breakout star Roddy Ricch, and the ultra-powerful Kirk Franklin. With a line-up like that, you can rest assured the late, great Nipsey Hussle will be smiling down from above.

The Grammy Awards will air this weekend on Sunday, January 26. Performances have been confirmed by Lizzo, Billie Eilish, Camila Cabello, Tyler, The Creator, and many more. Will you be tuning in?

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