Photo Credit: Verzuz
TikTok and its viral moments have dominated the social aspect of the music industry. But Jadakiss highlights how important other moments can be with his Verzuz win in 2021.
The rapper is speaking about The Lox’s Verzuz battle against Dipset. The Lox is a rap group consisting of Jadakiss, Styles P, and Sheek Louch. The group got their start as high school students in Yonkers but managed to make a name for themselves in the NYC rap scene. The group signed with Bad Boy Records and released their debut album, Money, Power, Respect, in 1998.
The Lox delivered an energetic and professional performance in their Verzuz battle against Dipset. In fact, the performance was so good that Jadakiss says he was able to renegotiate his contract with Def Jam. “My numbers went up for hostings and walk throughs, for shows, and TV cameos,” Jadakiss told Complex in a recent interview. “Just in general my numbers went up. It also showed Def Jam that they got to do the right thing and restructure my contract. It really showed the world my true worth, what I can do.”
Verzuz rap battles often provide participating rappers with a boost in streaming numbers for weeks after their appearance. According to Alpha Data, artists’ streaming numbers jumped on average 88% in the three days after a Verzuz battle compared to the three days before. Jadakiss says more artists should be looking to participate and come prepared.
“More artists should prep for Verzuz, and take it serious,” Jadakiss continues. “It’s a celebration. It’s somewhat of a battle. And you’ve got to take it serious. You show your craftsmanship, as well as display your catalog. With me already doing Verzuz against Fab, I already had a little bit of tactics, and a little preparation.”
Jadakiss even confirms that Triller has approached him for another Verzuz battle. “They came at me and asked me if I would be willing to do one more,” the rapper confirms. “I don’t really know, though. I got more songs that I didn’t use. A lot more. But I don’t know. Maybe if the money was undeniable.”