Nas and Hit-Boy’s remarkable collaboration has been immortalized through a painting that draws parallels between their achievements and the glory days of the ’90s Chicago Bulls.
On Tuesday, September 19, Atlanta-based artist Jerell Gantt made good on a promise he had left in a comment under Nas’s original Instagram post. He had previously teased, “Don’t make me paint this!!!!!” and now revealed the artwork he had hinted at creating.
The artwork features Nas in a pose reminiscent of Michael Jordan’s iconic photo with his six NBA Championship rings. However, in this version, each of Nas’ rings showcases one of his Hit-Boy-produced albums, hinting at the duo’s legendary streak in the Hip Hop realm.
Gnatt’s post plays a snippet from Nas’ track with Lil Wayne from Magic 3, where Nas raps about being clutch in critical moments, referencing basketball greats.
“I always hit the last shot when it’s game time/ The Jordan, Kobe, ‘Bron talk, take a long walk.”
The dynamic partnership of Nas and Hit-Boy began in 2020 and quickly made a mark. With their recent album drop, they’ve wrapped up their collaboration, delivering six albums over four years, resulting in two trilogies and a Grammy for Best Rap Album in 2020 for “King’s Disease.”
In the world of hip hop, drawing parallels to sports legends is not uncommon. Just as athletes set records, dominate fields, and become iconic figures in sports, rappers aim for a similar stature in the music industry.
The reverence for athletes like Michael Jordan symbolizes the pinnacle of success and serves as a benchmark for artists striving for greatness in their respective domains. Jerell Gnatt’s artwork, highlighting the partnership of Nas and Hit-Boy and its comparison to Jordan’s dynasty, further underscores the intertwined admiration and aspiration that exists between the realms of sports and music. It’s a testament to the universal language of excellence and legacy.
Here’s the original photo of Michael Jordan proudly displaying his six championship rings.
