Throughout lockdown, music has been a more vital force than ever for uniting people and lifting spirits throughout a challenging period across the globe. We saw through our Virtual Festivals that the world needed reasons to celebrate, have fun and feel united. One series that captured the attention at Defected HQ was Swizz Beatz and Timbaland’s Verzuz, a novel event that reimagined the DJ battles of hip-hop’s hey day for music fans while going to see live music was not available.
The concept involves two prominent artists, ranging from vocalists and rappers, to producers and DJs, pairing up to compete back to back live using their musical repertoires. The rules evolved as the series proceeded, a trial and error process we know well from throwing our virtual parties, but Verzuz proved a reason to have fun and celebrate great music during lockdown and still remains a huge hit as restrictions are eased.
Check out a few of our favourite Verzuz battles below…
Gladys Knight vs. Patti Label
View this post on InstagramHope everyone enjoyed their evening. What was your favorite moment? #verzuz
Erykah Badu vs. Jill Scott
DJ Premier vs. The RZA
Alicia Keys vs. John Legend
Ludacris vs. Nelly
DMX vs. Snoop Dogg
