When news broke of Nipsey Hussle's passing, friends, peers, and community members offered their love and condolences for the West Coast rapper. One of those who paid tribute is fellow Los Angeles native Jhené Aiko, who worked with Nipsey on the video for her song "Never Call Me." In light of Hussle's death, Aiko confirmed that she is delaying the release of new music in honor of her late friend and collaborator.
Aiko took to Instagram to reply to a fan's comment on Monday, who asked when to expect new music from the singer. In a response captured by The Shade Room, Jhené explained that "out of respect for Nipsey" she will be suspending upcoming rollouts.
"Out of respect for Nipsey, I will be postponing the release of the new music I planned on releasing this month, until I feel the time is right," Aiko wrote. "I want to take this time to remember and reflect on the life of the legendary Nipsey Hussle."
Aiko is one of many artists to pay tribute to Nipsey since his death. Rappers J. Cole and Big Sean dedicated portions of their sets at Dreamville Fest on April 7 to Hussle. Additionally, the Game brought Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre to his studio where the three were recorded listening to Nipsey's vocals, suggesting the late rapper will be featured on the Game's upcoming album Born to Rap.
According to TMZ, Nipsey's funeral procession will span 25 miles of South Los Angeles, passing his Marathon Clothing store on the corner of Slauson and Crenshaw, where he ultimately lost his life. The rapper's casket will be present for the Celebration of Life memorial service taking place at the Staples Center on Thursday, and will travel across various neighborhoods in his home town once the service concludes. The procession is expected to last an hour and a half, and will end at a funeral home in the Crenshaw district.
