Exclusive
“Verzuz” is pulling out all the stops for its 2020 finale, and when Too Short and E-40 hit the stage it’ll look like a full-fledged arena concert … proving how much of a cash cow the show’s become.
The Bay Area icons will face off on a soundstage in NorCal that will reflect the nearly $500,000 budget for this single event … according to sources involved in the production.
TMZ obtained a blueprint of the stage setup for 40 and Short, and you can tell Swizz Beatz, Timbaland and Apple are thinking big.
We’re told the MCs will be surrounded by concert-style lighting and some expensive props — 2 classic old school cars will be on stage behind each of them. Makes sense, both Short and 40 have told us their battle will be an homage to the Bay’s hip-hop scene.
Our sources say Apple — which is now streaming all the “Verzuz” episodes — realizes how much of a cultural phenomenon the show is, and they’re spending like it.
In fact, Short and 40 almost squared off at the Steve Jobs Theater on the Apple Campus, but due to COVID safety concerns, the show had to be moved.
TMZ.com
Unlike Jeezy and Gucci Mane, the Oakland legends are longtime friends who come into the “Verzuz” beef-free. However, when they came on “TMZ Live,” it was very clear they’re both playing to win.
Translation: Expect lots of old school trash talk to go along with the new school big-budget production.
Getty Images In February, King Charles III revealed his cancer diagnosis and now he’s sharing… Read More
Play video content Arochukwu Network Meghan Markle was away from home on Mother's Day --… Read More
Getty Images Tom Brady celebrated Gisele Bündchen on Mother’s Day, just one week after the… Read More
Eric Wynalda -- a former soccer star for the U.S. Men's National Team -- has… Read More
Getty/Instagram Travis Kelce made it to Paris to support girlfriend Taylor Swift! Kelce was spotted… Read More
Dorit Kemsley isn't in the mood to answer questions about her relationship ... firing back… Read More