'Nipsey Hussle Station' Open for Business at Los Angeles Metro

Published in Business and Finance on Friday, August 15th 2025 at 20:37 GMT by tmz.com
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Nipsey Hussle would've turned 40 today, August 15, but the late rap star's presence is still looming in his beloved neighborhood ... Los Angeles Metro is honoring him at one its stations with a full "Marathon" makeover.

Los Angeles Metro Unveils Nipsey Hussle Station: A Tribute to the Late Rapper's Legacy in South LA

In a heartfelt ceremony that blended community pride, musical homage, and urban development, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) officially opened the Nipsey Hussle Station on Friday, August 15, 2025. Located in the heart of South Los Angeles, along the bustling Crenshaw/LAX Line, this new transit hub stands as a permanent memorial to Ermias Joseph Asghedom, better known as Nipsey Hussle, the Grammy-nominated rapper, entrepreneur, and community activist who was tragically gunned down in 2019 outside his Marathon Clothing store.

The station's naming comes after years of advocacy from local residents, city officials, and Hussle's family, who pushed for a lasting tribute that reflects his deep roots in the Crenshaw neighborhood. Hussle, born and raised in the area, was more than just a musician; he was a symbol of empowerment, economic independence, and resilience for Black communities in Los Angeles. His philosophy of "The Marathon Continues" – a mantra that emphasized long-term vision and self-reliance – has inspired countless initiatives since his passing, and now it's etched into the fabric of the city's public transportation system.

The unveiling event drew a massive crowd, including celebrities, politicians, and everyday Angelenos who gathered under the station's gleaming blue-and-white signage, adorned with murals depicting Hussle's likeness and motivational quotes. Lauren London, Hussle's longtime partner and mother of his son, was among the key speakers, delivering an emotional address. "Nipsey always dreamed of uplifting this community, of creating opportunities where there were none," she said, her voice steady but laced with emotion. "This station isn't just about getting from point A to B; it's about continuing the journey he started, making sure his light keeps shining on the streets that raised him."

Metro CEO Stephanie Wiggins highlighted the station's role in fostering economic growth in underserved areas. "Nipsey Hussle represented the spirit of innovation and community investment," Wiggins stated during the ribbon-cutting. "By naming this station after him, we're not only honoring his memory but also committing to the kind of progress he championed – better access to jobs, education, and resources for South LA residents." The station itself is a modern marvel, featuring state-of-the-art amenities like solar-powered lighting, free Wi-Fi hotspots, and integrated bike-sharing stations. Art installations throughout the platform pay homage to Hussle's life: a massive timeline mural chronicles his rise from mixtapes to mainstream success, while interactive digital displays allow riders to listen to snippets of his music and learn about his philanthropic efforts, such as the Vector90 STEM center he co-founded.

The push for the Nipsey Hussle Station began shortly after his death on March 31, 2019, when he was shot and killed at age 33 in a senseless act of violence. The incident sparked global outrage and mourning, with tributes pouring in from figures like Barack Obama, who praised Hussle's "message of hope and empowerment." In the years following, community leaders petitioned the city to rename landmarks in his honor. Initial efforts included renaming the intersection of Crenshaw Boulevard and Slauson Avenue as "Nipsey Hussle Square" in 2019, but advocates argued for something more impactful – a functional space that would serve the public daily.

The Metro board approved the naming in late 2024 after a unanimous vote, citing Hussle's contributions to local entrepreneurship and his advocacy for anti-gentrification measures. Critics, however, raised concerns about the cost and whether public funds should be used for such tributes. One local resident, speaking anonymously to TMZ, questioned, "It's great to honor Nipsey, but we need more trains running on time before we start naming stations." Supporters countered that the station symbolizes investment in the community, potentially boosting ridership and tourism. Indeed, early projections suggest the station could see up to 10,000 daily passengers, connecting riders to key destinations like LAX Airport and downtown LA.

Musical performances at the event amplified the celebratory atmosphere. Artists like YG, Dom Kennedy, and emerging South LA rappers took the stage, performing Hussle's hits such as "Victory Lap" and "Hussle in the House." A surprise appearance by Kendrick Lamar, a fellow Compton native and admirer of Hussle's work, brought the crowd to its feet as he freestyled verses about legacy and perseverance. "Nipsey taught us that the marathon ain't a sprint," Lamar rapped, echoing the sentiment that has become synonymous with Hussle's enduring influence.

Beyond the glitz, the station incorporates practical elements tied to Hussle's vision. A portion of the adjacent plaza has been designated for pop-up markets, allowing local vendors – much like those Hussle supported through his store – to sell goods without high overhead costs. Educational kiosks provide information on financial literacy programs, inspired by Hussle's own investments in real estate and tech startups. Metro has also partnered with the Nipsey Hussle Foundation to offer scholarships for youth pursuing careers in music, business, or urban planning, with applications available right at the station.

Reactions from the hip-hop community have been overwhelmingly positive. Diddy, who collaborated with Hussle on tracks, posted on social media: "This is what legacy looks like. Proud of LA for making it happen. #TheMarathonContinues." Meanwhile, fans have already begun flocking to the site, leaving flowers, custom sneakers, and notes at a makeshift memorial wall. One fan, 25-year-old Maria Gonzalez from Inglewood, told reporters, "I ride the Metro every day to work. Now, every time I pass through here, I'll think of Nipsey and how he believed in us. It's motivating."

As Los Angeles continues to grapple with issues like homelessness, inequality, and urban sprawl, the Nipsey Hussle Station serves as a beacon of hope. It's a reminder that public spaces can honor cultural icons while addressing real-world needs. Metro plans to expand similar tributes, with discussions underway for stations honoring other LA legends like Kobe Bryant and Selena Quintanilla. For now, though, this station stands tall in South LA, ensuring that Nipsey Hussle's marathon indeed continues, one train ride at a time.

The opening marks a significant chapter in the ongoing story of Hussle's impact. From his early days hustling mixtapes on Crenshaw to his posthumous Grammy wins, his life was a testament to turning obstacles into opportunities. Community organizers hope the station will inspire a new generation to invest in their neighborhoods, much like Hussle did with projects like buying back the block and revitalizing local businesses. As riders board trains emblazoned with his image, the message is clear: Nipsey's spirit rides on, connecting people not just physically, but spiritually, across the city he loved.

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[ https://www.tmz.com/2025/08/15/nipsey-hussle-station-los-angeles-metro-train/ ]

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'Nipsey Hussle Station' Open for Business at Los Angeles Metro

Los Angeles Metro Unveils Nipsey Hussle Station: A Tribute to the Late Rapper's Legacy in South LA