Swizz Beatz Reflects on His Roots, Stuns Metro Boomin with Nostalgic Photos from the ’90s
Music producer Swizz Beatz took a nostalgic trip down memory lane, sharing a series of photographs from his formative years in the 1990s. On Monday (May 27), the 45-year-old artist posted images on Instagram that highlighted his old room in New York City, where he claims to have created DMX’s iconic “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem,” along with shots of his gear and friends from that era.
In his post titled “Throwback Monday,” Swizz Beatz wrote, “Just a young man from the BRONX,” giving his fans a glimpse into his early days as a musician.
The post garnered admiration from his peers and followers, who were impressed by his journey over the past three decades. Fellow artist Fat Joe commented, quoting Anthony Hamilton, “Coming from where I’m from,” while Metro Boomin described the post as “ICONIC! And inspiring!!!!”
Swizz Beatz, who has significantly expanded his career beyond music, most recently collaborated with his wife, Alicia Keys, to curate an art exhibition. In January, the couple announced their plans to showcase their private collection of paintings, sculptures, and more at the Brooklyn Museum. The exhibition, titled ‘GIANTS: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys,’ opened in February and features works by renowned artists such as Gordon Parks, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Lorna Simpson, Kehinde Wiley, and Nina Chanel Abney.
The Brooklyn Museum’s website describes ‘GIANTS’ as reflecting the renown of legendary artists, the impact of contemporary creators, and the monumental scale of works by artists like Derrick Adams, Arthur Jafa, and Meleko Mokgosi. The exhibition pairs immense pieces, including the largest ever by Mokgosi, with standout works like Parks’s seminal photographs, Wiley’s revolutionary portraits, and Esther Mahlangu’s globe-bridging canvases.
The term “GIANTS” also highlights the strength of the bonds between the Deans and the artists they support, as well as the connections among the artists themselves. The exhibition aims to encourage “giant conversations” that critique society and celebrate Blackness.
Swizz Beatz’s reflective post and his ongoing contributions to both music and art underscore his lasting influence and commitment to fostering creativity and cultural dialogue.
The exhibit runs until July 7. Tickets are available here.
https://www.brooklynmuseum.org/exhibitions/giants
