In a recent interview, A$AP Rocky shared a surprising revelation: legendary actor Denzel Washington is a fan of Memphis rap. Rocky, who co-stars with Washington in Spike Lee’s upcoming film Highest 2 Lowest, recounted a moment when the Oscar-winning actor expressed his appreciation for the genre.
“We were on set, just vibing, and Denzel started talking about the raw energy in Memphis rap,” Rocky said. “He mentioned how the storytelling and grit reminded him of the blues and soul he grew up with.”
Memphis rap, known for its lo-fi production and dark themes, has its roots in the city’s rich musical history, drawing influences from blues, gospel, and soul . Artists like Three 6 Mafia, 8Ball & MJG, and Yo Gotti have been pivotal in shaping the sound.
A Shared Appreciation for Authenticity
Washington’s admiration for Memphis rap aligns with his known appreciation for lyrical depth in hip-hop. In a 2014 Reddit AMA, he named Eminem, Nas, and Jay-Z as some of his favorite rappers, praising their wordplay and storytelling abilities.
“Denzel respects authenticity,” Rocky noted. “He sees the parallels between the raw narratives in Memphis rap and the stories he tells through his acting.”
The bond between Rocky and Washington extends beyond music. Their collaboration in Highest 2 Lowest, a reinterpretation of Akira Kurosawa’s High and Low, showcases their mutual respect and creative synergy.
“Working with Denzel was a masterclass,” Rocky said. “His passion for storytelling, whether through film or music, is truly inspiring.”