Lupe Fiasco has made it into many rap fans’ top five, but he rarely comments on it. Until Zohran Mamdani.
Speaking with educator and writer Jose Vilson last month, Mamdani shared his list, noting it came with no particular ranking but reflected both his upbringing and the artists who shaped his perspective. On Tuesday (Mar. 17), Lupe re-shared the video on social media, adding a flexed biceps emoji as a reaction to his inclusion on the NYC Mayor’s list, alongside Common, Nas, Jay-Z, and The Notorious B.I.G.
Mamdani nodded to his time as a member of the New York State Assembly when giving his explanation for Nasty Nas’ inclusion.
“I gotta put in Nas, as someone who used to represent Queensbridge houses,” he said. “Largest public housing development in North America.”
He then highlighted the artists who influenced him growing up.
“I also have to say… when I was growing up, for me, Lupe Fiasco, one of my top rappers. I also have a real soft spot for Common. Also have to put in Jay-Z. And I think in New York City, we have to put in The Notorious B.I.G..”
This isn’t the only time the mayor’s love of hip-hop has made headlines. Last year, an article attempted to criticize Mamdani over past social media posts referencing The Diplomats.
During his mayoral comapaign, Mamdani also attended a major New York show featuring Wu-Tang Clan, Run the Jewels, and The LOX at Madison Square Garden, further underscoring his connection to the genre.
His connection to hip-hop goes beyond listening. Last year, Mamdani appeared on Hot 97, where he shared that the rapper Heems partly inspired his path into politics. He recalled getting involved in a local campaign in 2015 after seeing Heems endorse a Queens city council candidate, a moment that pushed him to take action and eventually launch his own political career.