Long live Kobe.
In the wake of Kobe Bryant’s death, Big Sean and The Game have recorded a tribute to the NBA legend. A preview of the track has surfaced via Los Angeles Leakers’ Justin Credible, which finds Sean and Game paying their respects to the Black Mamba over a Hit-Boy production, which samples The Marvelettes’ “I’ll Keep Holding On.”
“Fuck 24/7, I’m going 24/8 / That’s magic and he knew what it took to be great,” raps Sean. “Was in L.A. when it happened / Hit-Boy, track it up / God, send me a sign / I’m outside looking up.”
An emotional Game also mourns the loss (“We lost a legend but Vanessa lost a husband and a daughter”) and remembers Nipsey Hussle (“I was courtside when you scored 60 / Now you in heaven with my ni**a from the ’60s / Black Mamba, Neighborhood Nipsey”). He adds, “As I shed tears chugging this Hennessy back / What you do when people die and God ain’t sendin’ ’em back / Question everything.”
It’s unclear when the full song will drop. Upon hearing the devastating news on Sunday, both Sean and Game reacted on Twitter. “Mamba Mentality 4 life! Thank you for everything Kobe,” tweeted Sean, while Game added, “I’m sick !!!!! I love you bro. Thank you for everything. You & GiGi rest well.”
Meanwhile, other artists are also turning to music to honor the five-time NBA champ. Tinashe and Bad Bunny have released tributes in memory of the Black Mamba.