Miami Dolphins tackle Terron Armstead and several other NFL players have teamed up with the NFL, Interscope Geffen A&M Records, and Electronic Arts Sports to pursue their musical dreams. The collaboration has resulted in an extended play (EP) project titled Crowd Control, which was released on Tuesday. What’s more, the EP’s six songs have been integrated into Madden NFL 24, marking the first time music created by NFL players appears in the popular video game franchise.
In the past, many football players put their musical aspirations on hold due to the prevailing stigma that athletes should solely focus on their on-field performance. However, this new partnership is empowering players to express themselves through music. Terron Armstead, a four-time Pro Bowler, expressed how this opportunity has allowed them to be true to themselves and has reignited their passion for music.
Crowd Control features five active players: Terron Armstead, New York Giants tight end Darren Waller, San Francisco receiver Ray-Ray McCloud, free agent linebacker Melvin Ingram, and Carolina Panthers receiver D.J. Chark Jr. Waller, who has already released four hip-hop albums and comes from a family with a musical background, sees this as an exciting opportunity for his fellow players to pursue their passions.
The players collaborated with renowned hip-hop artists such as Rob49, Jay Rock, That Mexican OT, and Lebra Jolie to record the rap tracks at Interscope Records’ headquarters in Santa Monica, California. The project was executive produced by Derrick Milano, a Grammy winner known for his work with artists like Justin Bieber, Megan Thee Stallion, and Nicki Minaj.
The idea for this collaboration stemmed from an NFL Career Tour event held at Interscope earlier this year. It provided players with a unique opportunity to explore their interests in music alongside industry experts. According to Ashley Smith, manager of player development for the NFL, initiatives like this are crucial in helping players discover their identity and develop skills that extend beyond their football careers. Additionally, the NFL aims to expand its reach into other industries like technology and fashion to provide players with a diverse range of opportunities.
The involvement of these NFL players in the music industry breaks stereotypes and demonstrates their versatility and creativity beyond the football field. By incorporating their music into Madden NFL 24, the collaboration allows fans to experience the intersection of sports and music in a new and exciting way. The Crowd Control EP and its integration into the Madden franchise are just the beginning, as the NFL continues to support its players in pursuing their passions outside of football.
