Showing posts with label artist death. Show all posts
Showing posts with label artist death. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Rising Chicago Drill Star Lil Scoom, 18, Slain in South Side Shooting

Photo Credit: Instagram/_lilscoom89
Rising Chicago rapper Lil Scoom, whose real name was Asyrion Hogan, was fatally shot July 7 in the Chatham neighborhood on the city's South Side.

According to police the 18-year-old artist, known for his hit song "Caught On," was involved in a verbal altercation that escalated into gunfire around 11:50 p.m. Saturday at the intersection of 89th Place and Langley Avenue.
Hogan and his 16-year-old friend were confronted by an unidentified individual. As the conflict intensified, shots were fired, striking Hogan twice in the chest. He was rushed to the University of Chicago Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. His friend, who was also wounded, is expected to recover.

Chicago police responded to the scene and pursued a suspect who fled on foot. During the chase, the suspect fired at officers, prompting a 10-1 emergency call for immediate backup. Multiple districts and the CPD SWAT team responded, but the suspect managed to escape.

Signal Records, Lil Scoom's label, confirmed his death in a statement: "It is with great sadness that we share the loss of our artist @_lilscoom89. A true creative, Scoom's passion for music was evident in the near-constant flow of songs and videos to his fans. His immense talent, ambitious vision, and quiet determination made him a one of one and an inspiration to so many. We will miss him dearly. Our thoughts are with his family."


Hogan's music often reflected the harsh realities of life in his neighborhood, including themes of violence, poverty, and drug use. He was a prominent figure in the Chicago drill scene, known for his raw lyrics and aggressive delivery. His popularity had been growing, with millions of streams on platforms like YouTube and Spotify.

Lil Scoom was also involved in several online feuds with other rappers, including FBG Cash, Lil Jay, and Memo600. These conflicts, often played out on social media, have raised concerns about their potential to incite real-life violence.

The shooting occurred amid a surge in gun violence in Chicago over the extended July Fourth weekend, which saw more than 109 victims, including 19 fatalities.

Chicago police continue to investigate the incident and search for the suspect involved in the shooting.
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Friday, June 28, 2024

Jewel Brown, Blues and Jazz Legend, Succumbs to Cancer at 86

Jewel Brown, the celebrated jazz singer from Houston who gained fame performing with Louis Armstrong,has died at age 86, her publicist confirmed Wednesday.

Born and raised in Houston's Third Ward, Brown was one of six children. She knew she wanted to sing from an early age, participating in local talent shows and earning her way to a regular gig in Galveston while still a teenager. Her talent soon led to recording singles for Liberty Records in the early 1960s, and she was drawn to Los Angeles to sing with keyboardist Earl Grant's band.

In 1961, while Louis Armstrong was touring in Sierra Leone with his All Stars, his longtime singer Velma Middleton died suddenly. Armstrong offered Brown the opportunity to take Middleton's place. This led to a nearly decade-long collaboration, with the two touring, recording, and performing together until Armstrong's retirement in 1969.




"He was the most fantastic person I've worked with my entire life," Brown said of Armstrong in a 2015 interview with the Houston Chronicle. "It was just a gift from heaven to be able to work with him."

Brown's career began at the tender age of 12, when she performed professionally for the first time at the Manhattan Club in Galveston, Texas. She later turned down an opportunity to tour Europe with Lionel Hampton's band to stay in school. Before joining Armstrong, she headlined at Jack Ruby's nightclub in Dallas, a period she rarely discussed in interviews.

Despite her success, Brown eventually chose to return to Houston in 1969 to care for her parents.
"Baby, I grew up on it all," she told the Houston Chronicle. "I've done country and western, ballads, torch songs, blues, and jazz. They call mea bluesy jazz singer and a jazzy blues singer. Give a song to me. If it's good, I'll do it."

After parting ways with Armstrong, Brown continued to sing but focused on performing locally. Health issues, including scoliosis, osteoporosis, and partial sight loss in one eye, limited her later career, but she remained active in the Houston music scene. In 2007, she was inducted into the Blues Smithsonian Hall of Fame, and in 2015, she was recognized by Congress for her contributions to the arts.

During her hiatus from performing, Brown managed a barbershop with her brother, sold insurance, and worked as a tailor. She eventually returned to performing locally and made a significant comeback, performing at events like the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and Satchmo Fest.
In recent years, Brown recorded for Dynaflow Records in Austin. She had recently been treated for colon cancer before her death.

Brown’s family expressed their gratitude in a statement sent to ABC13: "It is a special but difficult time for us. We appreciate all the love, the calls, concerns, and acknowledgements that all of you have expressed. We know how much Jewel was loved by many across the globe, in Texas, in Houston, and especially her Third Ward community. We thank you all!"
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Sunday, June 23, 2024

Ambush Claims Life of Jacksonville Rapper Julio Foolio at Tampa Hotel

Charles Jones, also known as Jacksonville rapper Julio Foolio. (YouTube)
Florida rapper Julio Foolio was fatally shot early Sunday while celebrating his 26th birthday.

Julio Foolio, whose real name was Charles Jones, had told his 1 million Instagram followers he had "the best birthday ever," before the tragedy.

Jones had been hosting a pool party at a rented Airbnb in the Tampa area Saturday afternoon. The event grew so large that police responded, shutting it down and forcing the guests to leave. Jones and others later moved to a nearby Holiday Inn.

At approximately 4:40 a.m., gunfire erupted in the hotel's parking lot, killing Jones and wounding three other people, according to the Tampa Police Department. The injured victims are in stable condition. The medical examiner's office has not yet confirmed Jones' identity.

Jones' attorney, Lewis Fuso, described the incident as an ambush. "Mr. Jones was reportedly ambushed in the hotel's parking lot," Fuso said in a statement.

Jones was known for his association with the Jacksonville-based gang KTA and had survived previous attempts on his life, including a 2021 shooting in Jacksonville, after which he taunted his attackers on Instagram.

The investigation is ongoing, with Tampa police reviewing surveillance footage from the hotel. No suspects have been arrested as of Sunday afternoon.

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Saturday, June 15, 2024

Angela Bofill, Renowned Singer of 'This Time I'll Be Sweeter,' Dies at 70

Angela Bofill, the acclaimed R&B and jazz singer known for hits like "This Time I'll Be Sweeter" and "I Try," died Thursday morning at her daughter's home in Vallejo, California. She was 70.

News of her passing was shared on her personal Facebook account in two separate posts.

"On behalf of my dear friend Angie, I am saddened to announce her passing on the morning of June 13," read the first post. It noted that her funeral will be held at St. Dominick's Church in California on June 28 at 1 p.m.



A follow-up post added, "Just to clear up the confusion. On behalf of Shauna Bofill and her husband, Chris Portuguese, we are saddened but must report that Angela's passing yesterday is indeed true. We thank Melba Moore and Maysa for their early condolences. Thanks for your many posts."

The messages were signed by her friend and manager, Rich Engel.
Bofill, born Angela Tomasa Bofill on May 2, 1954, in the Brooklyn area of New York City to a Cuban father and a Puerto Rican mother, began her professional career in her teens, recording her first studio album, "Angie," in 1978. The album included the chart single "This Time I'll Be Sweeter" and the jazz composition "Under the Moon and Over the Sky." Her second album, "Angel of the Night," released less than a year later, outperformed its predecessor and included hits like "I Try."

Raised in The Bronx, she grew up listening to Latin music and was also inspired by African-American performers. During her childhood, weekends were spent studying classical music and singing in New York City's All City Chorus, which featured the best singers from high schools across the five boroughs.

She attended Hunter College High School, graduating in 1972, and later studied at the Manhattan School of Music, earning a Bachelor of Music degree in 1976.
Bofill faced significant health challenges due to two strokes in 2006 and 2007. She took a five-year hiatus from performing to concentrate on her recovery, making a triumphant return to the stage in 2011.

In a December 2020 interview with Essence magazine, Bofill laughed off rumors of her death that had circulated online months earlier. "Friends calling up, ‘Oh my God, am I talking to the ghost of Angela Bofill?’ Thank God it’s not true," she said.

Reflecting on the tributes that poured in during that time, she expressed gratitude. "You always must welcome love," she said. "I figured, ‘They really like me!’ [I’m just] laughing at it, really. It’s better to have a sense of humor.”
“I feel happy performing again,” she told The Denver Post in 2011. “I need the crowd. It's in my blood to entertain. Any time a crowd comes to see me, I’m surprised. I don't sing anymore, yet people still come. Wow. Impressed.”

In the same interview, Engel recounted Bofill’s career during the 1970s and '80s, highlighting her exceptional vocal range: "She had a rare voice. She could hit low notes and could hit high C. Her pitch was perfect.”

Despite complications from her strokes, Bofill maintained a positive outlook. “But my voice no sing. I'd rather not sing. Awful. It cracks me up! Funny! I laugh about it. But very grateful — still living. Never take things for granted,” she said.

Throughout her career, Bofill released numerous albums and hit singles, including "Something About You," "I'm on Your Side," "Let Me Be the One," and "I Just Wanna Stop." She was one of the first Latina singers to find success in the R&B and jazz markets.

In 2023, Bofill was inducted into the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame, a testament to her enduring influence and contribution to music.
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Monday, June 3, 2024

Pioneering Hip-Hop Artist Brother Marquis Dies at 58 pen_spark

The best-known lineup of 2 Live Crew poses for a promotional shoot. From left are Fresh Kid Ice, Mr. Mixx, Brother Marquis and Luke "Skywalker" Campbell.
Mark Ross, better known by his stage name Brother Marquis, a founding member of the iconic hip-hop group 2 Live Crew, has died at 58.

The news was announced through a social media post on the group's official page, which read: "Mark Ross AKA 'Brother Marquis' of the 2 Live Crew has went to the upper room #2livecrew..." TMZ subsequently confirmed the death with 2 Live Crew's manager. No cause or manner of death has been made public yet.

Born in Rochester, New York, in 1966, Brother Marquis emerged as a pivotal figure in Southern hip-hop, particularly the Miami bass scene. He rose to prominence in the mid-1980s with 2 Live Crew, the group known for its electrifying delivery and unapologetically raw lyrics that explored themes of sexuality and social commentary.


Their 1989 album, "As Nasty As They Wanna Be," became a cultural flashpoint after a legal battle that ultimately established a precedent for artistic expression in music. Beyond the controversy, Brother Marquis's rapping prowess and the group's innovative sound significantly influenced the evolution of Southern hip-hop.

Beyond 2 Live Crew

Brother Marquis showcased his musical versatility beyond 2 Live Crew in the early 1990s. He formed the duo 2 Nazty with DJ Toomp and released the album "Indecent Exposure" in 1993. That same year, he made a notable guest appearance on Ice-T's album "Home Invasion," contributing to the original version of the iconic track "99 Problems," later remade by Jay-Z into a chart-topping hit.
Brother Marquis remained active with 2 Live Crew reunions throughout the late 1990s and 2000s. In 1996, he rejoined 2 Live Crew with original members Fresh Kid Ice (Christopher Wong Won) and Mr. Mixx (David Hobbs) and released the album "Shake a Lil' Somethin'." The group continued recording and performing until Fresh Kid Ice's passing in 2017. Brother Marquis and Fresh Kid Ice released a final 2 Live Crew album "The Real One," in 1998.
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Thursday, April 18, 2024

Forensic Errors Cloud Takeoff Murder Case

Photo Courtesy HPD

The trial of Patrick Clark, the suspect accused of fatally shooting Migos rapper Takeoff, faces potential complications following revelations of forensic mishandling by a former Houston Forensic Science Center analyst, Rochelle Austen, who has now been terminated.

Documents obtained by Houston media outlet ABC13 highlight Austen's errors. These errors include switching DNA samples and violating chain of custody procedures, prompting scrutiny over their impact on Clark's case.


Takeoff, whose real name was Kirshnik Khari Ball, was killed outside a Houston bowling alley on November 1, 2022, sending shockwaves throughout the music industry. A pivotal member of the Grammy-nominated group Migos, Takeoff was known for his laidback demeanor and intricate flow that helped propel the group's success and influence countless artists.

"Since she did mess up, they can never put her on the stand again, and the defense attorney would vigorously cross-examine her," said defense attorney Murray Newman, highlighting the potential impact of the revelations on the trial.

While details surrounding the shooting remain murky, prosecutors allege Clark's involvement in a dice game altercation that escalated to gunfire. Security footage reportedly captured Clark firing a weapon, with a nearby camera providing crucial evidence. His fingerprints were also found on a wine bottle left at the scene. Clark maintains his innocence.
The Harris County District Attorney's Office, proactively addressing potential issues, filed 392 Brady Notices, including one in Clark's case, notifying defense attorneys of the evidence mishandling.

Clark's attorney, Letitia Quinones, expressed concern, indicating plans to investigate how the errors might affect the defense. "This is something of concern for us, and we will be investigating it to see exactly how it affects our client's case," Quinones said.

Surveillance footage allegedly depicts Clark holding a gun and leaving behind a wine bottle, with his fingerprints linking him to the scene. However, FOX 26 Houston's Legal Analyst, Chris Tritico, emphasized the importance of maintaining a chain of custody in forensic science, suggesting that compromised evidence could weaken the prosecution's case.
Clark, who posted a $1 million bond in January 2023, anticipates returning to court on May 29. The revelations of forensic errors add a layer of complexity to the case, prompting heightened scrutiny.

Timeline:
Nov. 1, 2022: Takeoff is fatally shot.
Dec. 2022: Patrick Clark is arrested and charged with murder.
May. 2023: Grand jury indicts Clark on murder charges.
Dec. 2023: Clark is released on bond with house arrest restrictions.
March 2024: Forensic analyst Rochelle Austen is terminated, and her mishandling of evidence, including a chain of custody mix-up in Clark's case, is revealed.
April 2024: Clark's house arrest restrictions are lifted.
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Monday, April 15, 2024

Iconic Dungeon Family Member Rico Wade Dies at 52

Photo Credit: Instagram/ricowadedf
Rico Wade, a member of the Dungeon Family and an integral part of the legendary Atlanta rap production group Organized Noize, has passed away at the age of 52.

Wade's family confirmed his sudden and unexpected death in a statement released on Saturday afternoon. "We are deeply saddened by the sudden and unexpected passing of our son, father, husband, and brother Rico Wade. Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of a talented individual who touched the lives of so many. We ask that you respect the legacy of our loved one and our privacy at this time," the family wrote.

Recognizing his immense contribution to music, Organized Noize and the Dungeon Family released a joint statement mourning his loss and highlighting his impact. "We are devastated by the news of the passing of our dear brother Rico Wade. The world has lost one of the most innovative architects in music, and we have lost an invaluable friend. Rico was the cornerstone of Organized Noize and the Dungeon Family, and we will forever treasure his memory and the moments we shared, creating music as a united team. Our hearts weigh heavy with sorrow, and we kindly request privacy and empathy during this challenging period. Rico’s presence will always have a special spot in our hearts, and in the music we presented to the world."


Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens also paid tribute to Wade's legacy, stating, "Rico left an indelible mark on music and culture around the world. Without Rico Wade, the world may have never experienced The Dungeon Family, OutKast, Goodie Mob, Future (his cousin and second generation Dungeon Family member), and many more. Rico's presence will be sorely missed."

As a founding member of Organized Noize, Wade played a vital role in shaping the Southern hip-hop sound, producing hits for Outkast, Goodie Mob, Ludacris, TLC, and more. The Dungeon Family, a collective of Atlanta rap artists with funk and soul influences, was born out of their collaboration.


Fellow Dungeon Family member Killer Mike expressed his profound sense of loss on social media, saying, "I don’t have the words to express my deep and profound sense of loss. I am praying for your wife and children. I am praying for the Wade family. I am praying for us all. I deeply appreciate your acceptance into the Dungeon Family, mentorship, friendship, and brotherhood. Idk where I would be without y’all."

The Atlanta City Council also issued a statement honoring Wade's legacy, recognizing him as a "cultural architect" whose contributions to hip-hop and production shaped the sound of generations.
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Thursday, April 11, 2024

O.J. Simpson, Controversial Star of Sports, Screen & Music, Dies

O.J. Simpson, the former NFL star whose life was marred by athletic triumph, a sensationalized murder trial, and later imprisonment, has died. He was 76.

Simpson's death was confirmed Thursday by his family. In a statement, they wrote, "Our father, Orenthal James Simpson, passed away today after a battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his family. While this is a difficult time, we ask that you respect our privacy."

Simpson rose to prominence as a record-breaking running back at the University of Southern California, where he won the Heisman Trophy in 1968. He went on to a Hall of Fame career in the NFL, primarily with the Buffalo Bills, rushing for over 11,000 yards.


His public image shattered in 1994 when he was charged with the murders of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ronald Goldman. The ensuing televised trial captivated the nation. Simpson was acquitted of the murders but later found liable for their deaths in a civil case.

Simpson also enjoyed a successful acting career, appearing in films such as the "Naked Gun" series. His foray into music included the video "Get Juiced," where he played pranks, including a reference to his infamous white Ford Bronco.

In 2008, Simpson was convicted of armed robbery and kidnapping in Las Vegas and served nine years in prison. He was released on parole in 2017.

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Monday, April 1, 2024

'Energy Never Dies': Lauren London Reflects on Nipsey Hussle's Loss

Photo Credit: Norberto Garcia

Actress Lauren London took to Instagram on Sunday to commemorate the fifth anniversary of her late boyfriend Nipsey Hussle's passing with a heartfelt message.

"If you know me, you know March is always tough for me. 31 days of holding my breath," London wrote. "This day decided to fall on Easter Sunday this 2024. Interesting…. considering your name #GodWillRise. Energy never dies…. I love you. Eternal."

Hussle, a Grammy-winning rapper, entrepreneur, and community advocate, tragically lost his life at the age of 33 when he was fatally shot outside his Marathon clothing store in South Los Angeles on March 31, 2019.

Despite his untimely death, Hussle's legacy continues to be celebrated in various ways, notably with the unveiling of a posthumous star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2022, coinciding with what would have been his 37th birthday.


During the star's unveiling ceremony, London spoke passionately about Hussle's enduring impact: "I think I speak for the entire city of LA when I say that we've always known Hussle was destined for greatness. This moment only amplifies this for us. Nip would've been honored by this moment."
Born Ermias Joseph Asghedom, Hussle transcended his troubled past as a former gang member to become a revered musician and a beacon of hope within his community. His advocacy focused on ending gun violence and providing opportunities for youth in his neighborhood.

Hussle, a father of two, shared a son named Kross, aged 7, with London and had a daughter named Emani from a previous relationship. The man responsible for Hussle's tragic death, Eric R. Holder Jr., was sentenced to 60 years to life in prison in 2022.
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Thursday, March 14, 2024

Anthony 'Baby Gap' Walker, a Pioneer of Funk Music, Dies at 60

Anthony "Baby Gap" Walker (second from right), a former member of the Gap Band and seen here in a promotional photo for GapX, has passed away at the age of 60. 
Anthony "Baby Gap" Walker, a member of the legendary funk and R&B group the Gap Band, has died at age 60. Walker, who was performing with former Gap Band members in the group GapX, died after complications from recent neck surgery on March 4, his brother, Eric Walker, confirmed.

"The Band will miss our friend, brother, and bandmate Anthony 'Baby Gap' Walker," GapX said in a social media post. "Gone too soon. We will never forget you!!!"


The Gap Band was formed in 1967 by brothers Charlie, Ronnie, and Robert Wilson. Walker joined in 1979 as a dancer, choreographer, and performer, and the band soon signed with Mercury Records. The group released a string of hits, including "Oops Up Side Your Head," "Outstanding," "Burn Rubber on Me (Why You Wanna Hurt Me)" and "You Dropped a Bomb on Me."

Walker contributed to the band's songwriting, penning tracks such as "Automatic Brain" and "L'il Red Funkin' Hood." Additionally, in 1985, he collaborated with bandmate Billy Young to release the album "Billy & Baby Gap." Walker's career also included collaborations with Rick James, George Clinton and Snoop Dogg.

A memorial service for Walker will be held later this week in his hometown of Chicago.
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Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Hip-Hop Mourns Loss of Bo$$: Def Jam's First Female MC Dead at 54

Photo Credit: GoFundMe
The hip-hop community is mourning the loss of Bo$$ (born Lichelle Laws), the trailblazing female rapper who made history as the first woman signed to Def Jam Recordings. Bun B confirmed her passing at 54 on Monday via Instagram, sharing a heartfelt tribute to the late artist.

"Rest in peace to my big sis Lichelle Laws AKA Bo$$," he wrote. "One of the best female MCs and a dear friend. Give Rick Royal a hug for me. Long Live The Org!"


Bo$$'s influence on the rap scene was undeniable. Fellow icons like Jermaine Dupri, Jadakiss and DJ Premier expressed their condolences and shared memories of working with the Detroit-born legend, whose musical journey began in her hometown before she caught the eye of Def Jam's West Coast division, leading to her groundbreaking debut album, "Born Gangstaz," in 1993.


In recent years, Bo$$ faced significant health challenges, battling kidney disease since 2011. She also suffered a major stroke and seizure in 2017. To support her medical costs, her family launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for a recommended specialized procedure.


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Monday, February 19, 2024

Matriarch of Motown Icons: Etterlene DeBarge Dies at 88

Etterlene DeBarge/Instagram
Etterlene DeBarge, matriarch of the celebrated DeBarge family and a renowned gospel singer in her own right, passed away on Friday, at the age of 88. Her daughter, Etterlene "Bunny" DeBarge, confirmed the news on Instagram with a heartfelt message: "Momma has gone to see her king!"

Born Etterlene Abney in 1935, DeBarge's musical journey began in gospel choirs, where her powerful vocals captivated audiences. Married to Robert DeBarge in 1953, she raised 10 children, fostering a household steeped in music. Seven of their children went on to form the iconic Motown group DeBarge, earning multiple Grammy nominations with hits like "Rhythm of the Night" and "Time Will Reveal."

While never officially joining the group, DeBarge's influence was undeniable. Her son El DeBarge expressed their shared grief, stating, "The Queen of My Heart, my beautiful mama, has gone home to the loving arms of her Savior Jesus." Her unwavering support and guidance played a crucial role in their success.

Yet, DeBarge's musical legacy extended beyond her children. She released two solo gospel albums, "Back on Track" (1991) and "A City Called Heaven" (2005), showcasing her enduring faith and musical passion
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