Books can change lives—and for Nipsey Hussle, they truly did. Known for his music and entrepreneurial spirit, Nipsey was also a big reader. He believed books helped him grow, stay focused, and think bigger. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the Nipsey Hussle book list, explore why he read certain titles, and how you can start reading like him to level up your life.
Who Was Nipsey Hussle and Why Did He Read So Much?
Nipsey Hussle, born Ermias Joseph Asghedom, was more than just a rapper from Los Angeles. He was a visionary, entrepreneur, and leader in his community. Coming from South Central LA, Nipsey faced many challenges in his youth, including poverty, violence, and limited opportunities. But instead of being held back, he used those experiences to fuel his growth.
One of his secret weapons? Books.
Nipsey believed that reading could transform your mindset. He often said that his success came not just from music but from studying business, leadership, psychology, and self-development. He treated reading like a form of self-investment—something that helped him elevate his life and the lives of those around him. In interviews, podcasts, and videos, Nipsey frequently mentioned books that inspired him. These weren’t just random picks—they were tools that helped him grow his empire.
What Is the Nipsey Hussle Book List?
The Nipsey Hussle book list is a powerful collection of titles that he either recommended or was known to read during his life. These books focus on themes like wealth-building, mindset development, leadership, marketing, spirituality, and community empowerment. Nipsey didn’t just read for entertainment—he read with purpose. Every book he picked up had a lesson, and he applied those lessons directly to his life and business.
This reading list includes titles that helped him understand how the world works—from business strategies to mental focus techniques, and even spiritual teachings. Some of these books became staples for his fans and followers who wanted to think like him, move like him, and succeed like him.
Top Books Nipsey Hussle Recommended
Over the years, Nipsey mentioned several books that had a big impact on his journey. Let’s take a closer look at a few key titles from his reading list that stand out the most.
“The Spook Who Sat by the Door” by Sam Greenlee
This novel isn’t just a story—it’s a statement. “The Spook Who Sat by the Door” tells the tale of a Black CIA agent who uses his training to organize a resistance movement in inner-city Chicago. Nipsey was drawn to the idea of using the system’s knowledge to empower his community. He believed in learning the game, mastering it, and then teaching others how to play.
The book represents rebellion, strategy, and empowerment—all themes that showed up in Nipsey’s music and life. He encouraged others to read it not just for the plot but for the mindset it could create: one of intelligence, revolution, and responsibility.
“Contagious” by Jonah Berger
In his interviews, Nipsey often talked about “Contagious: Why Things Catch On.” This book explains how ideas, products, and content go viral. For an independent artist like Nipsey, understanding how to make your brand spread like wildfire was essential.
From pricing strategies to storytelling techniques, Nipsey used lessons from this book to build his own brand without major-label support. It’s one of the clearest examples of how he merged business thinking with cultural influence. If you’re building something—music, business, or brand—this book gives you tools that actually work.
“Three Magic Words” by U.S. Andersen
Spirituality played a role in Nipsey’s life too. “Three Magic Words” is a metaphysical book that explores the power of the subconscious mind. Nipsey loved books that pushed people to go deeper within themselves, and this one is all about unlocking your inner power.
The message? You are the creator of your reality. This idea matched Nipsey’s belief that we all have the ability to change our lives through focus, intention, and belief. This book dives deep, but for Nipsey, that kind of thinking was key to staying grounded while reaching for success.
Why These Books Mattered to Nipsey
These books weren’t just for fun—they were part of Nipsey’s strategy. He didn’t believe in just grinding blindly. Instead, he read to work smarter. Each book helped him upgrade his thinking. Whether it was learning how to market his mixtapes, invest in real estate, or strengthen his mindset, he found tools in every chapter.
Nipsey wanted to change the story for his people. He knew that knowledge was the real currency. By reading and sharing what he learned, he wasn’t just growing alone—he was creating a blueprint that others could follow.
These books helped him:
- Understand how money works
- Learn how to turn fans into a loyal community
- Stay mentally focused in tough environments
- Develop a mindset of long-term vision over short-term gains
They weren’t random titles. They were weapons in his arsenal for success.
How to Start Reading Like Nipsey Hussle
If you want to grow the way Nipsey did, it starts with one step: read with purpose. Nipsey didn’t read 100 books a year—he read key books deeply and applied what he learned. Here’s how to read like him:
- Pick books that teach something useful – Don’t just read for entertainment. Choose books that solve a problem or develop a skill.
- Take notes – Nipsey took mental and physical notes from books. Write down key lessons.
- Apply the ideas – Reading is only useful if you apply the knowledge. Try using the tips in real life.
- Share what you learn – Nipsey believed in community. Teach others what you’re learning.
Start with one book a month. Over time, your mindset will shift, and your goals will feel more reachable.
More Books Inspired by Nipsey’s Mindset
Nipsey’s bookshelf was wide and deep. He loved books that helped him grow mentally, financially, and spiritually. If you want to go beyond his core book list, here are more categories and titles that match his energy.
Books About Building Wealth
Nipsey was all about ownership and financial freedom. He studied money like a scientist. These are books that teach you how to build, protect, and grow wealth:
- “Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki – Teaches the difference between assets and liabilities.
- “The Millionaire Next Door” by Thomas J. Stanley – Shows how real wealth is built quietly and smartly.
- “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill – A classic on developing a wealthy mindset.
- “The Intelligent Investor” by Benjamin Graham – For those looking to learn about smart investing.
Books That Teach You to Think Big
Nipsey’s success came from his visionary thinking. He didn’t aim low. These books help you expand your vision:
- “The 10X Rule” by Grant Cardone – Pushes you to take massive action.
- “Awaken the Giant Within” by Tony Robbins – Helps unlock your personal power.
- “Start with Why” by Simon Sinek – Focuses on leading with purpose.
- “The Magic of Thinking Big” by David J. Schwartz – Shows that big thinking leads to big results.
Books That Help You Stay Focused
Focus was one of Nipsey’s most powerful tools. He stayed disciplined, even when surrounded by distractions. These books help sharpen your focus:
- “Deep Work” by Cal Newport – Teaches how to work in distraction-free flow.
- “Atomic Habits” by James Clear – Helps you build strong daily habits.
- “Can’t Hurt Me” by David Goggins – A powerful story of mental toughness and discipline.
- “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle – Focuses on being present and calm under pressure.
Where Can You Find the Nipsey Hussle Book List?
The full Nipsey Hussle book list isn’t in one official place, but you can find it through interviews, podcast appearances, YouTube videos, and articles from fans who’ve tracked his journey. You can also search online using platforms like Goodreads, Reddit, and fan forums.
Just search terms like:
- Nipsey Hussle recommended books
- Nipsey Hussle book list Reddit
- Books Nipsey Hussle read
These searches often bring up lists from fans and content creators who’ve gathered titles based on what he said and read over the years.
The Bottom Line
Nipsey Hussle wasn’t just a rapper—he was a reader, thinker, and builder. The books he read helped shape his mindset, his business moves, and his mission to uplift others. By understanding the Nipsey Hussle book list, you’re not just learning what he read—you’re stepping into a blueprint for personal growth, community empowerment, and financial independence.
