Football and Flow: Celebrating 50 Years of Hip-Hop's Impact on the NFL.

By: Jimmie Sykes

Courtesy of NFL Media x UMe

Fifty years ago, a distinctive artistic expression crowned as hip-hop came into about, forming into a powerhouse for music and culture. Hip-hop surfaced as a groundbreaking influence, providing MCs with the opportunity to express the realities of daily life in urban areas. This had a profound impact of extending its influence through domains such as football, enchanting audiences worldwide for generations.

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, NFL Media and Universal Music Enterprises proudly present "Football and Flow," an innovative crossover content series. This three-episode collaboration features hip-hop icons Rakim, Hit-Boy, and Ludacris as they share their love for football and express their allegiance to their favorite NFL teams.

Launching on Friday, Nov. 24, the series will be available on the NFL App, NFL.com, the NFL’s YouTube page, and the NFL’s social media channels, as well as UMe’s platforms. Each episode will also premiere on various NFL Network programs, with airings on "Good Morning Football" on the following dates:
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• Rakim: Friday, Nov. 24
• Hit-Boy: Friday, Dec. 1
• Ludacris: Friday, Dec. 8

Hip-hop and football, deeply rooted in culture for generations, take center stage for this special occasion. As the genre champions 50 years of influence, "Football and Flow" provides an experience to delve into shared insight across generations, regions, and personalities whose impact resonates to this day.

"Over the past 50 years, hip-hop has evolved into the leading genre globally and is integrated into every aspect of the football experience. Recording artists, football players, and fans alike share the same competitive spirit, hustle, and grit necessary to perform on the world’s largest stages and in life,” said Walter Brock, director, and co-founder of CrossOvr Media.

"Football and Flow" stands as the latest initiative in the NFL's ongoing efforts to connect with the larger hip-hop community and its global fan base. Coming off the success of the 2022 Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show, the first-ever hip-hop halftime show featuring legends such as Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent, and Anderson.Paak, this series continues the celebration of the profound impact of hip-hop on football and beyond.

“Hip-hop has served as the soundtrack for generations since its inception,” said Shayna Hayes, NFL head of content for entertainment and initiatives. “Football & Flow’ is a true celebration of this cross-pollination of music and sports.”

Additionally, explore the intersection of football and hip-hop with the 'Football and Flow' - Hip Hop 50th Playlist Apple Music Playlist. Dive into the playlist and stay put as Hip-Hop 50 and football meet at a cultural intersection.