Prodigy, half of revolutionary New York hip-hop duo Mobb Deep, has died, according to a statement released by a representative. He was 42.
According to the, the rapper was recently hospitalized in Las Vegas due to complications from sickle cell anemia:
It is with extreme sadness and disbelief that we confirm the death of our dear friend Albert Johnson, better known to millions of fans as Prodigy of legendary NY rap duo Mobb Deep. Prodigy was hospitalized a few days ago in Vegas after a Mobb Deep performance for complications caused by a sickle cell anemia crisis. As most of his fans know, Prodigy battled the disease since birth. The exact causes of death have yet to be determined. We would like to thank everyone for respecting the family’s privacy at this time.
Johnson and Kejuan Muchita, known as Havoc, formed Mobb Deep in the early 1990s, releasing their first album, Juvenile Hell, in 1993. Their sophomore LP, The Infamous, is still acclaimed as a trailblazing album in New York rap, unapologetically and artfully condemning the city while keeping it grounded. The duo continued to produce and perform into the 2000s, while Prodigy released several solo records, including 2007’s beloved Return of the Mac.
Many musicians have already expressed their grief over Prodigy’s passing, whether they were his friend or fans. Find their remembrances below.
R.I.P #PRODIGY;
— ScHoolboy Q (@ScHoolboyQ) June 20, 2017
Man I’m rocked by the news of my man p passing… So many memories w him n havoc n the fellas.. Man im @ a loss
— QTip (@QtipTheAbstract) June 20, 2017;