Rico Wade, popularly known as a critical figure in the Atlanta hip-hop community and the co-writer of TLC's hit song "Watefalls," has passed away at the age of 52.
The Guardian reported that his family announced his death over the weekend, but they didn't give more background as to how he passed; a cause of death has not been publicized.
"Rico left an indelible mark on music and culture around the world and for that, the south will always have something to say," Atlanta mayor Andre Dickens said in a statement.
According to Fox 5 Atlanta, the musician was one of the pioneers of the local hip-hop scene in the city. He was a founding member of the Dungeon Family and has collaborated with artists like Cee-Lo Green, OutKast, Goodie Mobb, and many more.
In addition, he was also part of the Organized Noize production team and the Dungeon Family collective, which were the people behind OutKast's album Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik.
Some of Wade's music introduced a brand new sound to the hip-hop genre, which became predominant within the scene later on.
His wife and kids survive Wade.
Rico Wade Remembered on Social Media by Friends, Fans
Rapper Killer Mike took to his official Instagram account to share photos of Rico Wade, and in the lengthy caption, the musician paid tribute to his good pal.
"I deeply appreciate your acceptance into The Dungeon Family, mentorship, Friendship and Brotherhood. Idk where I would be without ya'll," he said.
Many key figures within the hip-hop scene commented on the post, including Denzel Curry, Keisha Bottoms, Cee-Lo Green, Kid Capri, Ludacris, Busta Rhymes, and many more.
Who Was Rico Wade?
Rico Wade was born in East Point, Georgia, on February 26, 1972. The musician is related to rapper Future, and he even credits his cousin for launching his career.
In a previous interview with Rolling Stone, Future recalled going to the studio to meet Wade and being fascinated because he witnessed how albums were made behind the scenes.
Although Future and Rico didn't work on any projects together, the rapper still made sure he credited the one who supported him right from the beginning, as he said: "Rico support me 1000 more times than anybody ever could... Nobody could ever do what Rico Wade did for me... Everything I know about music, I know because of Rico," he added.
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