News Summary
The Los Angeles Metro is celebrating the legacy of Nipsey Hussle with limited edition TAP cards and the renaming of a station in his honor. Collaborating with Hussle’s estate, Metro has unveiled two unique TAP card designs and renamed Hyde Park station to Nipsey Hussle Station until August 2025. These initiatives are part of Metro’s commitment to community empowerment and honor Hussle’s impact on Los Angeles culture. Additionally, plans for a posthumous album and new business ventures continue to keep Hussle’s legacy alive.
Los Angeles, CA – The Los Angeles Metro is celebrating what would have been the 40th birthday of the late rapper Nipsey Hussle with significant tributes, including the release of limited edition TAP cards and the renaming of a station in his honor. The initiatives aim to honor Hussle’s lasting impact on the culture of Los Angeles and are part of Metro’s broader campaign, “Metro x Culture,” which highlights influential Angelenos who have shaped the city’s identity.
In collaboration with Nipsey Hussle’s estate, Metro has launched two exclusive TAP card designs featuring the rapper. One card, titled “Crenshaw & Slauson,” displays a striking black-and-white portrait of Hussle taken by renowned hip-hop photographer Jonathan Mannion. The second card, simply called “Watts,” features a vibrant color portrait of Hussle on a Metro bus. A total of 12,000 of these commemorative cards will be made available at ticket vending machines located in select Metro stations, including Hyde Park, Crenshaw, Compton, Hollywood/Vine, and Expo/Crenshaw.
Additionally, the Hyde Park station has been temporarily renamed “Nipsey Hussle Station” in remembrance of the rapper, a change which will remain in effect until August 31, 2025. This rename serves as a prominent reminder of Hussle’s legacy in the community.
Legacy of Community Advocacy
Nipsey Hussle, born Ermias Joseph Asghedom, tragically lost his life in March 2019 due to gun violence outside his clothing store, The Marathon Clothing. Beyond his musical accomplishments, Hussle was a noteworthy community advocate focused on gang prevention and empowerment initiatives aimed at uplifting local youth and providing resources for self-development.
The release of the TAP cards coincides with Metro’s Low-Income Fare is Easy (LIFE) Program, which aims to make public transportation more affordable for families. By commemorating Hussle through these TAP cards, Metro reinforces its commitment to enhancing opportunities for residents, particularly those in underserved neighborhoods.
Ongoing Honors and Future Plans
Metro Chief Executive Officer Stephanie Wiggins emphasized that Nipsey Hussle’s legacy extends beyond his musical career to embody values of community and connection. In addition to the TAP card initiative, his brother, Blacc Sam, has announced plans for a posthumous album featuring unreleased music recorded prior to Nipsey’s death. This new musical project aims to keep Hussle’s artistic voice alive and continues to inspire fans.
Blacc Sam is also expanding the Marathon brand with the recent opening of two new Marathon Burger locations this year. These new restaurants are aligned with his vision to build and grow the brand established by his late brother, further demonstrating Nipsey Hussle’s commitment to both community engagement and entrepreneurship.
Importance of Public Transportation
Metro officials assert that public transportation plays a crucial role in connecting neighborhoods and providing opportunities for Angelenos. By launching initiatives such as the limited edition TAP cards and actively recognizing local figures like Nipsey Hussle, Metro aims to foster a sense of unity among the diverse communities in Los Angeles.
The combination of these commemorative efforts serves as a poignant reminder of Nipsey Hussle’s influence and dedication to his community. As Los Angeles continues to honor his memory, initiatives such as these are crucial for both preserving his legacy and promoting a culture of empowerment within the city.
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Additional Resources
- CBS News
- Wikipedia: Nipsey Hussle
- Okayplayer
- Google Search: Nipsey Hussle LA Metro
- TMZ
- Google Scholar: Nipsey Hussle
- HotNewHipHop
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nipsey Hussle
- Fox 11 Los Angeles
- Google News: Nipsey Hussle
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
