For over a decade, Wiz Khalifa's "Black and Yellow" has been the sonic emblem of Pittsburgh, boosting both the city's pride and the rapper's stardom. Now, Khalifa, in collaboration with the Pitt-focused NIL collective Alliance 412, is releasing a new anthem titled "Oakland Originals."
The track pays homage to Pitt athletics, spotlighting iconic players like DeJuan Blair, LeSean McCoy, Curtis Martin, Kenny Pickett, Aaron Donald, Larry Fitzgerald, Damar Hamlin, and Tony Dorsett. The music video (one of Zwick Post’s latest) is already making waves on YouTube with its superstar performances and crowd-stopping highlights. Directed by Andrea Saavedra and Edited by Nick Alvarez, the video opens up with dramatic voiceover, skillfully woven through captivating highlights and imagery symbolizing the essence of Pittsburgh University and encapsulating the core values of Oakland Originals. The imagery and narration crescendo into an action packed, masterful performance music video that continues the trend of highlighting not only the wonderful spirit of Pitt but also the ultra-athletic highlights of its most notable alumni.
Why "Oakland Originals" Matters for NIL
NIL collectives have been exploring various strategies to capture fan and donor attention since the inception of NIL in 2021. However, Alliance 412's choice to release a rap song and accompanying video dedicated to their collective sets a new precedent. Alliance 412 chief investment officer John Pelusi acknowledges the impact of Wiz Khalifa's involvement, emphasizing that the goal is to raise awareness for Pitt's NIL activities.
“It’s all about raising awareness," Pelusi said. "The whole idea I think of NIL is to draw attention to your particular program for multiple levels, both from a branding and corporate marketing standpoint."
Wiz Khalifa's Taylor Gang Entertainment has already invested in NIL, signing 25 athletes to endorsement deals in December. The collaboration with Alliance 412 adds a creative and innovative layer to the collective's efforts, aiming to attract attention from businesses, donors, and potential recruits.
“Alliance 412's focus is on raising awareness for their program at multiple levels – branding, marketing, and recruiting," Pelusi explained. "These kids are going to see this creative, innovative, standalone type of stuff that no other institution is doing. It’s going to intrigue someone to want to get on campus and check out why Pitt.”
