Who Gained the Most From Verzuz? These Pairings Had the Biggest Catalog Spikes
As Billboard reported earlier this year, Verzuz did more than provide a distraction — it renewed interest in Black legacy acts in what became known as “the Verzuz effect…
As the pandemic forced lockdowns around the world in the spring, Timbaland and Swizz Beatz swooped in to entertain fans at home with a virtual DJ battle on Instagram Live in March. They’ve since grown the concept into Verzuz — a show that pits the catalogs of two legacy artists, producers or songwriters against each other in an unscored competition — which has evolved into a cultural phenomenon.
As Billboard reported earlier this year, Verzuz did more than provide a distraction — it renewed interest in Black legacy acts in what became known as “the Verzuz effect.” As shown by the gains in stream totals of over 100% from the day before to the day after their appearance on the series, according to Nielsen Music/MRC Data, these pairs earned the biggest catalog gains. (With Gucci Mane and Jeezy also benefiting from new project bumps.)
May 9: Erykah Badu vs. Jill Scott
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May 23: Bounty Killer vs. Beenie Man
May 25: 112 vs. Jagged Edge
Aug. 31: Brandy vs. Monica
Sept. 13: Gladys Knight vs. Patti LaBelle
Nov. 19: Gucci Mane vs. Jeezy
This article originally appeared in the Dec. 19, 2020, issue of Billboard.
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