When Verzuz launched in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic was in full swing. Everyone was bored and stuck in the house, feeling cut off from the outside world.
Verzuz was started by music giants Swizz Beatz and Timbaland and quickly captured the hearts of diehard music fans. It became a way to give music legends their much-needed flowers. In the early stages, Verzuz began as a simple Instagram live between two artists in their studios. As time passed, Verzuz graduated to a full-scale production, featuring live performances and audiences. Although we’ve had some great matchups, there are still some Verzuz battles that we want to see.
So far, iconic battles have occurred between some of the greats, including the late DMX and Snoop Dogg, Brandy and Monica, Nelly and Ludacris, SWV and Xscape, and more. Each battle has been better than the last and has reminded viewers of the timeless hits created through the ’90s to the present day.
While there have been no new matchups since 2022, Verzuz could make a comeback. After all, there is still a demand for many heavyweights in the music game to battle. With that in mind, here are five Verzuz battles we want to see ASAP.
1. Usher and Chris Brown
Fans have been dying for a Verzuz between the two R&B crooners since the beginning. Although Usher has shut rumors down of a battle against Brown in the past, in April 2023, he was more open to the possibility. He sat down with “Big Boy’s Neighborhood” and discussed the idea of actually going toe-to-toe with Brown.
“Chris and I will kill the world if we ever do something together like that; I’m not saying it’s Verzuz,” Usher said. “I’m going to just say this: if that ever happens, it’ll be one of the biggest things that anybody has ever experienced in entertainment in celebration of two people who love each other because I love Chris.”
Fans have also suggested a Justin Timberlake and Usher battle. However, most folks believe that Usher and Chris Brown’s similar artistic styles make for a better matchup. The R&B singers have teamed up numerous times in the past on hits such as “Party” and “New Flame.”
2. Missy Elliott and Busta Rhymes
Talk about an epic mashup! When it comes to lyrical and visual creativity, Missy and Busta would be a perfect matchup. Both artists have hits stacked up from the ’90s to the present day and are each other’s male and female counterparts. With their unique music styles and flair for the dramatic, it would be one of the most explosive Verzuz battles we’ve seen thus far.
3. Jhene Aiko and Summer Walker
This Verzuz will be full of sensual vibes that will take you to a peak spiritual level. Since stepping onto the scene, Aiko and Walker have consistently captivated us with their smooth and sultry sounds. Their catalogs are a perfect match and will undoubtedly leave everyone feeling relaxed.
4. J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar
A Verzuz between these two iconic rappers would set the world on fire! Both rappers are two of the hottest in the game right now and have delivered game-changing music. In addition, J. Cole and K. Dot have collaborated over the years; rumors even ran rampant that they were dropping a joint album.
Keep in mind, K. Dot dissed Cole and Drake in March 2024 on the track “Like That,” after the pair released their song “First Person Shooter,” in 2023. Not to mention, Cole clapped back at K.Dot’s diss with the track “7 Minute Drill,” a song from his April 2024 mixtape, “Might Delete Later.” Cole apologized for the diss during his April 9, 2024, Dreamville Festival set.
A Verzuz matchup between Cole and K. Dot would be legendary and will definitely have fans buzzing for days.
5. Lil Kim and Nicki Minaj
The two self-proclaimed “Queens of Rap” would break the internet if they did a Verzuz together. Considering their diverse catalogs and previous feuds, a battle between the two femcees would be entertaining. We would love to see them go toe-to-toe.
Is Verzuz coming back?
As of this writing, there is no word on whether or not the beloved music battle will return. With so many potential Verzuz battles we want to see, we’re hoping for a revival soon.
Who would you like to see go head-to-head in a Verzuz battle? Comment and let us know!
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