Angelique Smith, the mother of Nipsey Hussle, shared a powerful message to those grieving the untimely passing of the Los Angeles-born rapper on Tuesday.
“I have perfect peace, and I have strength and I want to lift you up,” she said in a video uploaded to Jai Yew’s Facebook. “Please do not stay down, do not stay stuck, do not mourn, because Nipsey is great … and now he’s even greater because he has no bounds and limits. His energy is everywhere. He’s there with you now, and he’s here with me now. And please be encouraged.”
Hussle, born Ermias Joseph Asghedom, was shot and killed March 31 in front of his store, Marathon Clothing, in South Los Angeles. The rapper, 33, was a prominent figure in the community not only for his music but also for his charitable efforts and outreach programs.
Since his passing, the magnitude of his loss has been felt by many. Several celebrities, including Drake, Issa Rae and Lena Waithe, have shared heartfelt stories about Hussle all over social media.
Despite the pain, his mother told fans not to fear death and focus on the energy her son exuded because that's most important in both life and death.
"When you walk this earth and you do good deeds for people, and you are loving and kind, those are the things that will show on your face. You will look more beautiful," Smith said about viewing her son’s corpse. “Ermias looked healthy, he looked clean, he had a glow, he was radiant. And he was so perfect, he had a sweet aroma. He even smelled good."
'She continued, "Death is just the beginning of a wonderful world. And I tell myself, Ermias liked thrilling things. And now my son knows the mystery—the secret, rather, to the mystery of life.'"
Even in death, Hussle’s spirit is still reigning over his community. South LA City Councilman Marqueece Harris-Dawson announced Tuesday that the intersection of Crenshaw Boulevard and West Slauson Avenue, which is around the corner from the rapper’s flagship store, would be named Nipsey Hussle Square.
"Ermias Asghedom known as “Nipsey Hussle” was an icon and West Coast hero,” Harris-Dawson said in a press release obtained by EBONY. “Nipsey’s genuine nature allowed him to be a light to everyone he interacted with from family, friends, fans, and his larger community. As a father, brother, and son, Nipsey was a rock helping to build an empire that will continue through generations. Nipsey will always be remembered for delivering a pure, authentic Los Angeles sound, his numerous philanthropic efforts, his innovative, community-focused business mindset, and his humble heart. "
The slain rapper’s funeral service will be held at Staples Center on Thursday.
