Ballin to the Beat

Hip-hop shows up heavy during the NBA Finals.

by Rodney D. King / @mehkavelli

Hip-Hop and basketball are like a beat and a snare—they just go together. Since Kurtis Blow dropped his classic ode to hoops ‘Basketball‘ in 1984 the players and playerz have been synonymous with each other. From artists at games to players in music videos, hip-hop and basketball go hand in hand.

While emcees making songs about specific players in the NBA is nothing new, something is different about this year. As the season comes to a close, more artists begin to represent for their favorite teams and players through song. The city of Chicago was on fire when hometown hero and hip-pop star Yung Berg released his viral hit “Derrick Rose“ during the Bulls’ recent run to through this year’s the Playoffs. Atlanta native Waka Flocka Flame named his new mixtape DuFlocka Rant showing love to the League’s youngest star Kevin Durant and the Oklahoma Thunder. Not to mention the Lil Wayne hit “Kobe Bryant” released in 2009 to coincide with the Lakers legend march toward the chip.

This year, as the Heat and the Mavericks prepare to battle, two of hip-hop’s most respected acts dedicate songs to the last two teams standing.

Dallas Texas native and platinum recording artist Dorrough re-released his hit “Bounce Dat” to reflect his affection for home team turning it into “Dallas Mavs Anthem (Bounce that).” “I’m a huge Mavs fan,” said Dorrough. “My current single ‘Bounce Dat’ has a video with a basketball theme. It just made sense to do an anthem.”

Not to be out matched, former Shady records artist and Detroit native Obie Trice dropped “LeBron On” giving praise to King James, his leadership ability and clutch play. “‘LeBron On’ was inspired by watching LeBron persevere amidst all of the hate from once fans and critics who were upset about his move to Miami,” said Obie via phone about his new song.

The Pistons will always be in the motor city natives’ heart, but he does admire the Heatles for their focus to push past the drama and toward the goal of an NBA championship. “I am a fan of their movement and the way they’ve carried themselves this season. They’ve played a lot of great clutch basketball for a great Playoff run, and LeBron has played a major role in why they’ve come this far.”

Dorrough is straight forward when he speaks about who he’s pulling for in the Finals. “I believe the Mavs will win. They’re not only seeking revenge from the ’06 series, but they are also a much better and experienced team from five years ago. They are playing their best ball right now.”

Whoever wins the chip this year, one thing is for certain. When the champagne gets popped hip-hop’s favorites will be the one’s providing the soundtrack.