Apple Reportedly Tried Purchasing Rap-Battle Series 'VERZUZ'

New details have come to light regarding VERZUZ‘s deal with Triller Network.

Bloomberg has reported that Apple recently showed interest in acquiring the webcast series. The tech giant supposedly did not engage in a bidding war but did present a price that was ultimately rejected since Triller Network is now the owner of the series.

VERZUZ was initially launched by two of the industry’s biggest hitmakers Swizz Beatz and Timbaland in March 2020. Since its inception, the show has become a cultural phenomenon featuring some of hip-hop’s biggest names battling head-to-head. Artists including Raekwon, Ghostface, Gucci Mane, Ashanti, Keyshia Cole, and E-40 have made an appearance in the series, with Bow Wow and Soulja Boy expecting to match up later this year. Previously, Apple Music and VERZUZ signed a deal that would simultaneously allow the content to stream on the VERZUZ Instagram account and Apple Music app. However, after Triller purchased the series, the partnership ended.

Bloomberg also confirmed that had the deal gone through, VERZUZ would have greatly expanded Apple Music’s social component, one which they have struggled for over the years.

In other music news, Rick Ross is being sued by St. Louis promoters for missing a concert.