Lil Uzi Vert Pays Homage to Shinsuke Nakamura in New Song “Nakamura.” Lil Uzi Vert’s new album Pink Tape is full of surprises, but one of the most unexpected tracks is the song “Nakamura.”
The song is a tribute to Japanese professional wrestler Shinsuke Nakamura, who is known for his flamboyant in-ring style and his signature “rising sun” pose. But who is Shinsuke Nakamura?
Shinsuke Nakamura: The King of Strong Style
Shinsuke Nakamura, born on February 24, 1980, in Kyoto, Japan, is a professional wrestler widely recognized for his electrifying charisma, unique in-ring style, and captivating performances. Nicknamed “The King of Strong Style,” Nakamura’s journey from his early days in Japan to his worldwide success in the WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) has solidified his status as one of the most influential and beloved pro wrestlers of his generation.
Early Life and Wrestling Career in Japan
Growing up in a country known for its rich wrestling tradition, Nakamura developed a passion for the sport at a young age. He was particularly inspired by the legendary Antonio Inoki and embraced the hard-hitting, martial arts-inspired style known as “Strong Style.” Nakamura’s commitment to the craft led him to join New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) in 2002, where he honed his skills and rapidly rose through the ranks.
Nakamura’s presence in NJPW soon became impossible to ignore. With his intense charisma and a repertoire of unique moves, including his signature “Kinshasa” knee strike, he quickly gained a devoted fanbase. He captured numerous championships, including the IWGP Heavyweight Championship, the IWGP Intercontinental Championship, and the G1 Climax tournament, solidifying his status as one of NJPW’s brightest stars.
International Recognition and Arrival in the WWE
Nakamura’s global appeal led to his signing with the WWE in early 2016, marking a significant turning point in his career. Making his debut at NXT TakeOver: Dallas, Nakamura’s electrifying entrance, accompanied by his captivating theme music, instantly endeared him to the WWE Universe. His in-ring style, blending strong strikes, technical prowess, and an enigmatic persona, fascinated fans around the world.
During his time in NXT, Nakamura captured the NXT Championship and engaged in unforgettable rivalries with notable opponents such as Samoa Joe, Finn Bálor, and Bobby Roode. His matches were highly anticipated and often stole the show, showcasing his unique charisma and in-ring abilities.
Main Roster Success and Championship Reigns
In April 2017, Nakamura made his main roster debut, adding a new dimension to WWE’s roster of talent. His arrival was met with great excitement, and he quickly made an impact, participating in high-profile matches against the likes of John Cena, Randy Orton, and AJ Styles. Nakamura’s rivalry with Styles culminated in a captivating match at WrestleMania 34 for the WWE Championship, solidifying his status as a main-event player.
Throughout his tenure in WWE, Nakamura has held multiple championships, including the United States Championship and the Intercontinental Championship. His ability to connect with the audience, both in the ring and through his charismatic presence, has made him a fan favorite worldwide.
Legacy and Impact
Shinsuke Nakamura’s influence on professional wrestling extends beyond his in-ring achievements. His unique blend of strong style, charisma, and showmanship has inspired a new generation of wrestlers, both in Japan and abroad. Nakamura’s success has also paved the way for more international talent to thrive in the WWE, breaking down barriers and showcasing the global appeal of professional wrestling.
Outside of wrestling, Nakamura’s impact can be felt in popular culture. His distinctive fashion sense, characterized by eccentric outfits and flamboyant entrances, has influenced fashion trends and sparked a devoted following. He has become an icon not only for his wrestling ability but also for his artistic expression and individuality.
A clear example of Nakamura’s legacy in pop culture is Lil Uzi Vert’s new song titled after his last name. The song’s beat samples Nakamura’s theme song, “The Rising Sun,” and Uzi’s lyrics are full of references to the wrestler. He raps about Nakamura’s “legendary” status and his ability to “turn any crowd into a frenzy.” He also compares himself to Nakamura, rapping that he’s “the king of the ring” and that he’s “never gonna stop shining.”
“Nakamura” is a fun and energetic track that is sure to get fans of both Lil Uzi Vert and Shinsuke Nakamura excited. It’s a unique and unexpected collaboration that shows Uzi’s versatility as an artist. In addition to the musical tribute, Uzi also paid homage to Nakamura in the music video for the song. The video features Uzi dressed in a traditional Japanese wrestling outfit, and he performs some of Nakamura’s signature moves. The video also includes clips of Nakamura wrestling in the ring.
The release of “Nakamura” has been met with positive reactions from fans of both Lil Uzi Vert and Shinsuke Nakamura. Many fans have praised the song for its catchy beat and Uzi’s energetic performance. Others have appreciated the way that Uzi used the song to pay tribute to Nakamura.
“Nakamura” is a unique and unexpected track that is sure to please fans of both Lil Uzi Vert and Shinsuke Nakamura. It’s a fun and energetic song that is also a touching tribute to one of the most popular wrestlers in the world.