It was just a year ago that the world tragically lost Nipsey Hussle. Born Ermias Joseph Asghedom on this day, the hip hop community is taking the time to wish the Grammy Award-winning rapper a happy birthday. He would have turned 35.

Nip had an undeniable impact within the music industry as an independent artist and an even greater impact within his hometown of Los Angeles.

In 2017, he opened the Marathon Clothing store as a way to inspire the youth and give back to the place where he grew up. Additionally, as a staunch advocate for diversity in the technology space Nip opened up Vector 90, a co-working office STEM education center in his neighborhood, right before the release of his platinum-selling debut album Victory Lap.

His music was nothing less than motivational. He provided a crucial blueprint for burgeoning artists to take after when he priced his Crenshaw mixtape for $100 and later, his Mailbox Money tape at $1000.

Though Nipsey Hussle has made his ascension, hip hop is remembering him on the day he was born with heartfelt social media posts.

“Happy C-Day to the Legend @NipseyHussle ‘Tha Great’ No-one did it Better,” His long-time producers Mike & Keys tweeted. “Love You Brother! Stayed Down when they counted us out!”

Mike and Keys were responsible for crafting the sound Nipsey is known for and had a major role in the creation of Victory Lap, producing songs such as “Last Time That I Checc’d” and “Real Big,” while working closely with fellow producers My Guy Mars and Rance of 1500 or Nothin’, Kacey Khaliel and Axel Folie.

Yesterday, Snoop Dogg released a touching song in his memory titled “Nipsey Blue.”

Neighborhood Nip’s spirit will continue to live on through his friends, family, fans and industry colleagues who all had a tremendous amount of respect for him and the trailblazing way he navigated through the industry.

Check out posts from Lauren London, Rick Ross, Snoop Dogg, Karen Civil and more wishing Nipsey Hussle a happy birthday on his special day below.