In the first-ever Verzuz rematch, super-producers Timbaland and Swizz Beatz went head-to-head live from Miami this Memorial Day Weekend on Sunday (May 30). The co-creators of the virtual concert series shared the stage of Miami’s LIV Nightclub for the three-hour show in front of a live audience. For those not lucky enough to catch the vibe in-person, the livestream aired on Instagram, Triller and FITE TV App and drinks were provided by Ciroc. Fabolous, Missy Elliott, Jermaine Dupri, Keri Hilson and other celebs tuned joined over 160,000 in the Instagram comments to enjoy hits from mega acts like Chris Brown, Beyonce, Justin Timberlake, Aaliyah, DMX and Kanye West produced by this dynamic duo.
As Black Music Month approaches, it’s safe to say Timbaland and Swizz Beatz’s contributions to the culture are undeniable. Below are the best moments from their Verzuz battle. Peep below.
1. Beginning PROMPTLY
Fresh out the gate, the co-founders of the revolutionary digital platform began on time. Without any warmup or fanfare, the two artists took the stage and got straight to the heat. Timbaland reminded fans that he comes from a group, Timbaland and Magoo, so he took us to the West for a collab. The first song of the evening was “Drop” ft. Fatman Scoop. Swizz then reached in his bag and pulled out “Wish I Didn’t Miss You” by Angie Stone. The game was on!
2. The All-White Attire for Miami
Whether your style is more similar to Timbaland’s silk Fendi print shorts set or Swizz Beatz’s all-white tux, the men of the evening spared no style. “You look cute” Timbaland mockingly said to Swizz who replied, “I look cute, but you crispy.” Naturally the next song was “Tom Ford” by JAY-Z produced by Swizzy.
3. Best of Beyonce
Calling the BeyHive! You know music catalogues are incomparable when there’s enough material for an unofficial battle of the “Best of Beyonce.” Stans got to enjoy a heated segment of Bey bop after bop. First Timbaland played “Drunk In Love,” then Swizz responded with “Upgrade U.” Timbo came back with “Partition,” which Swizz followed with “Check Up On It.” The BeyHive was well served.
4. Tribute to Artists We’ve Lost
Following the Beyonce moment, Timbo and Swizz showed love to artists who will forever remain in our hearts. Timb played Aaliyah’s “Try Again” while Swizz paid homage to his late brother DMX with “Ruff Ryders Anthem” and “Party Up.” Fans in-person as well as those online had up their peace signs to show love and vibe out to the classics.
5. The R&B Vibes
With more hits from the 90s, Timbaland dug in his bag of tricks to remind us that he’s not just a hip hop producer, but he can provide the groove, too. After Dark jams like “Pony” by Ginuwine and “One in a Million” by Aaliyah gave the sensual fans a moment to body roll and feel a little grown and sexy.
6. Swizz’s Chain Jackin’
Tonight’s showcase was a great display of brotherhood. While the duo took jabs at each other in the name of friendly competition, ultimately there was nothing but love on that stage. You can tell by them singing along to the other’s music or Swizz taking a moment to give Timb his flowers. After a heartwarming toast, Swizz handed over his chain to Timb after he played “The Way I Are.” What a beautiful moment to experience as they took time to celebrate each other as brothers and the mega success of their idea: Verzuz.
7. OWNERSHIP Talk!
Swizz brought up the importance of artists taking stock of their music and brands. He reminded viewers that the ultimate goal is “ownership.” Tim co-signed the sentiment and announced that the Triller partnership allowed the co-creators to “take care of” 43 artists plus gave these dozens of artists part-ownership of the Verzuz brand.
8. Celebs Pulled Up To The Main Event
It’s not LIV on Sundays if there aren’t at least a few celebs in the building. But, it looked like co-creators of Verzuz brought out the big boys with DaBaby, Rick Ross and more casually in attendance. Timbaland hinted at a DaBaby collaboration not once, but twice from the stage. Fans definitely want to see that come to pass, but Swizz dropped the mic when he played Ricky Rozay’s verse from “Just in Case” by “Godfather of Harlem.” The Biggest Boss definitely received a warm welcome in his hometown. We peeped Busta Rhymes in the audience, too.
9. The Musical Diversity
Both Timbaland and Swizz Beatz have extensive discographies that span decades and genres, and tonight’s rematch was just the reminder — or even lesson — that we didn’t know we needed. Swizz gave us Neo Soul with Angie Stone’s “Wish I Didn’t Miss You” and “Promiscuous Girl” by Nelly Furtado.
10. Timbaland’s Birthday Gift from Swizz Beatz
Families celebrate milestones and Swizz used the Verzuz stage to honor Timbaland. The Virginia Beach born beatmaker turned 49 in March, so Swizzy gifted him a fly, custom jacket with Aaliyah and Missy Elliott’s faces spray painted on the front. The Verzuz logo in red covered the entire back. “Happy Birthday King. I love you, brother. Thank you for your patience with my crazy, big nose ass,” Swizz joked as the two high fived and embraced. What a way to mark the moment and immortalize this music history moment.