Date Published: October 20, 2025, 09:53h.
Last Updated: October 20, 2025, 09:53h.
- Nas and Resorts World contribute $2 million to The Hip Hop Museum
- The Hip Hop Museum aims to open its doors in 2026, over ten years after its initial announcement
- Nas and RW are applying for a complete casino license in Queens
Hip-hop icon Nas along with Resorts World New York City has pledged $2 million to support the development of The Hip Hop Museum located in the Bronx.
Originally conceived in 2015, the museum commenced its construction with a ceremonial groundbreaking in May 2021, attended by rap legends LL Cool J and Grandmaster Flash. Despite facing multiple delays and funding challenges, the project is now back on track, thanks in part to Nas and RWNYC’s support.
The video lottery facility at the Queens Aqueduct, along with Nas, is directing $2 million toward this museum, which plans to honor the birthplace of hip hop.
“Creating this hip hop museum has been a long-overdue need within our culture. It is inspiring to see a dedicated space being established to preserve that legacy, educate, and motivate future generations,” expressed Nas.
“Partnering with Resorts World to actualize this vision is a true privilege. This museum will act as a testament to our roots and a celebration of hip hop’s ongoing evolution,” the 17-time Grammy Award nominee added.
The Hip Hop Museum
Set to launch in 2026, The Hip Hop Museum will be located at 610 Exterior St. in the Bronx, merely steps away from Sedgwick Ave., widely regarded as the birthplace of hip hop. The museum will feature memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and plans for a 300-seat theater.
Nas, widely acknowledged as one of hip hop’s most influential artists, made this significant $2 million commitment during the museum’s 2nd Annual Benefit Gala on October 15 at Cipriana Wall Street in New York City.
In March 2024, Resorts World, collaborating with Nas—who hails from Brooklyn but was raised in nearby Queens—aspired to secure one of three downstate New York casino licenses expected to be awarded by year-end. Resorts World is competing among the last three bids evaluated by the New York Gaming Facility Location Board.
Genting, the Malaysia-based parent company of the racino that currently operates slot-like video lottery terminals and electronic table games, plans to invest $5 billion to transform the venue into a destination reminiscent of the Las Vegas Strip. Upon receiving a full-scale gaming license, RW would initiate the transformation into one of the largest casinos globally.
The envisaged casino is expected to house 6,000 slot machines and 800 live dealer table games. Additionally, the resort plans to offer 2,000 hotel rooms, a 7,000-seat arena, 7,000 parking spaces, more than 30 dining venues, and extensive community green space across a dozen acres.
Resorts World’s $2 Billion Community Contribution
In conjunction with the proposed $5 billion investment, Resorts World has pledged to offer $2 billion towards community benefit grants if granted the casino license.
Genting has committed $750 million for the development of up to 50,000 affordable workforce housing units and an additional $750 million for a sports and media complex in partnership with Kenny “The Jet” Smith.
Moreover, Resorts World will contribute $350 million to the Innovation Campus Community Fund and $150 million to the RW Gives philanthropic initiative.