E-40 Expands Influence in Bay Area Sports

Multiplatinum rap star Earl 'E-40' Stevens, known as 'The Ambassador of the Bay,' has joined the ownership group of the Oakland Roots and Oakland Soul soccer teams. The announcement marks a significant move for the Bay Area native, who is a longtime supporter of local sports teams.

E-40 will be joining a diverse ownership group that includes former NFL running back Marshawn Lynch, Golden State Warriors guard Gary Payton II, Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd, and musician Billie Joe Armstrong, lead singer of Green Day. 'Bringing my business acumen and sports fandom together as part of the Oakland Roots and Soul ownership group is truly special,' E-40 said in a statement.

E-40's involvement with the Oakland Roots and Soul is not limited to ownership. He is set to perform at the Oakland Roots season opener against New Mexico United on March 14 in the USL Championship. The Oakland Soul plays in the USL W League. E-40 is known for his enthusiastic support of Bay Area sports teams, having been spotted courtside at Warriors games and being a vocal supporter of the San Francisco 49ers.

The addition of E-40 to the ownership group comes at a time when soccer is becoming an increasingly important part of Oakland's sports landscape, especially with other teams relocating. The Oakland Roots and Soul have emerged as a source of community pride and a celebration of local culture.