Nuggets star Jamal Murray discusses his favorite rappers

Denver Nuggets star Jamal Murray has rattled off a list of his favorite rappers.

Have you ever wondered who the favorite artists of Denver Nuggets rising star Jamal Murray are?

Well, you’re in luck.

Thanks to an interview that the 23-year-old guard recently had with XXL Magazine’s Peter A. Berry, Nuggets fans — and those who might simply be fans of the game, supporting a fellow Canadian, or are fans from his days with the Kentucky Wildcats — now know exactly who they may find on Murray’s iTunes.

Here’s a quick summary of who Murray listens to most: the Wu-Tang Clan, Busta Rhymes, Jay-Z, Eminem, Lil Wayne and J. Cole.

In a discussion about connecting to old school rappers, Murray reveals that going to the barbershop has allowed him to discover new songs from Wu-Tang’s Method Man (famous for songs like Bring Da Pain, Da Rockwilder, and All I Need) and even Raekwon (also a member of the Wu-Tang Clan). Murray then notes that his favorite rappers from the ’90s and ’00s are Busta Rhymes and Jay-Z.

It’s actually quite interesting that Murray has such an affinity for New York rappers. While New York was seen as a hub of some of the greatest hip-hop artists of all-time thanks to their flavor and lyricism, Murray’s Canadian roots adds a bit of intrigue to his interests.

Especially when considering that Ontario, the Canadian province where Murray grew up, is more than 800 miles away from New York. However, his father being of Jamaican descent adds another layer to the connection, as New York has the greatest population of Jamaican-Americans. It may have nothing to do with Murray developing such an interest in New York rappers, especially because the rappers he named are some of the best in hip-hop history, but it would make sense.

Looking at his interest in Eminem (who claims Detroit as his hometown), Lil Wayne (who is infamous in his hometown of New Orleans) and J. Cole (from Fayetteville, NC), these rappers are certainly not from the Northeast but are undoubtedly some of the most popular artists in music history.

Particularly Eminem and Lil Wayne. These two rappers (who have collaborated on songs together) are known for their lyricism, with Eminem being notorious for his wordplay and subject matter but Lil Wayne’s infamy being based on his metaphors and mixtape dominance.

J. Cole himself is known for his lyricism and as Murray notes, he’s a “storyteller.”

In a league that’s predominately composed of African-American males, it makes sense that hip-hop or rap is one of the music genres that’s listened to most often. Of course, you’ll find that not everybody has the same taste, as younger players are more likely to listen to New Age rappers (like Lonzo Ball listening to Future) and older players — like Carmelo Anthony — might prefer to listen to old school hip-hop and R&B.

However, it would appear that Murray’s taste in music is as great as his play on the floor. If you haven’t checked out any of these hip-hop artists listed by the young man, I would suggest you do. For those concerned about the profanity they may find in the songs, there are almost always censored versions that should allow you to experience the excellence of these artists without hearing explicit language.

Which brings me to your question, who are your favorite artists? Let us know on Twitter @Nugg_Love.