ShareWe have witnessed the meteoric rise of the gambling industry in the past few years. It is not only land-based casinos that have attained incredible success. Online gambling markets are also growing exponentially. But their success has a direct effect on land-based gambling as well.
Another way in which the industry has changed is that it has attracted big names in the entertainment industry. Rock bands once had a monopoly on the musical connection to gambling. But the rise of hip hop has precipitated a bit of a change. Legendary rappers Jay Z and Nas are now delving into the gambling market.
Jay-Z Group Gets Shut Down
Hip hop fans must know about the beef between superstars Jay Z and Nas. The two rappers have had nothing but bad things to say about one another. Each of them has released a diss track about the other. The beef has luckily not progressed past the lyrical realm as so many other rap feuds tend to.
But what do Nas and Jay have to do with casinos? Rap and gambling are not as far removed as one would imagine. There are many slot games cataloged on First.com that show how hip hop music influences the gambling market. Casinos themselves have influenced many rappers to write lyrics and music about their experiences with the industry. Perhaps that is why these two titans of rap are looking to break into the gambling industry.
It was a mere month ago that a group affiliated with Jay Z attempted to open a casino in Times Square. The idea seemed to be brilliant; a high-end gambling establishment in one of the most visited places in America would surely be a huge draw for both locals and tourists. The pitch was shut down by city officials however. Fans following the news were shocked to hear of it; considering the drastic success of the gambling industry overseas.
Nas Comes out on Top
Rap fans have their own interpretations of the beef; and who comes out on top. Many would argue that Jay Z’s success is a victory in and of itself. Others believe that Nas’ unwillingness to change or “mellow” his sound have shown him to be the clear victor. Debates on who has won the musical side of the beef are certainly going to rage on for years to come. Both musicians are incredibly talented after all.
But when it comes to the casino side of things there is a clear winner. A Nas-backed casino proposal in New York city moved forward a mere week after Jay Z’s proposal was shut down. It was hard for Nas and his fans not to gloat a bit on social media and in public. Those in the Nas corner took to various online platforms repeating the phrase “we win again.”
Nasty Nas has partnered with Genting Resorts World in an attempt to acquire a state gaming license. The resort is set to offer all of the classic table games that many gamblers are so fond of. Blackjack and poker are sure to be the main draws here. But the resort has a lot more to offer. The establishment is set to have a concert hall and sports academy. Rumors have it that Kenny Smith will be involved with that side of the business.
Final Thoughts
It is hard for Nas fans not to celebrate another monumental victory in their favorite rapper’s most prominent feud. But a lot of the fans are only taking this achievement in good fun. It says little about the musical achievements or poetic talents of those involved. Nas just happened to maneuver the business world a lot better this time around.
