LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY - MAY 25: Rich Homie Quan performs during the inaugural 2024 Gazebo Festival at Waterfront Park on May 25, 2024 in Louisville, Kentucky./ Getty Images
Rich Homie Quan, Atlanta Rapper Known for Trap Hits, Dies at 33
Rich Homie Quan, the Atlanta rapper who rose to prominence with trap anthems like "Type of Way" and "Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh)," has passed away at the age of 33. The Fulton County Medical Examiner confirmed his death, which occurred at an Atlanta hospital. The cause of death has not yet been determined, with an autopsy scheduled for Friday, according to Jimmy Sadler, a senior medical examiner investigator.
Dequantes Devontay Lamar, known professionally as Rich Homie Quan, was a leading figure in hip-hop during the mid-2010s. He first gained widespread attention in 2013 with the hit single "Type of Way," which was so popular that it prompted remixes by other prominent artists, including Jeezy and Meek Mill. Quan continued to build his career with notable collaborations, such as his appearance on a YG track alongside Jeezy and the release of "Lifestyle" through the Rich Gang collective, which featured Young Thug and Birdman.
His subsequent single "Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh)," produced by DJ Spinz and Nitti Beatz, became his highest-charting solo release, reaching No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100. Quan also featured on Lil Dicky’s viral track "$ave Dat Money." In 2018, he released his debut and only studio album, "Rich as in Spirit," which included the single "Think About It" featuring Rick Ross.
Tributes to Quan have poured in from the music community, including messages from Quavo, Lil Boosie, and Playboi Carti. Singer Jacquees expressed his condolences on X, calling Quan a "legend" and stating, "Rest in Peace my brother Rich Homie Quan. I love you for life."
In a 2022 interview with The Associated Press, Quan discussed his return to music following a hiatus. He revealed that he was dealing with legal issues with his former label, T.I.G. (Think It's a Game Record), but was eager to make a comeback. He commented on the scrutiny faced by artists, emphasizing the need for discretion in his music while acknowledging the broader challenges within the industry.
"I wouldn't say unfairly targeted because at the same time, some of these rappers are putting guns in videos, and it’s like social media—it goes back to the social media thing," he said. "I think we’re showing too much. I’m going to tell a story, but I’m not going to tell you how I did it. It’s still Black art, but we’re definitely being targeted. That’s why I’m mindful of what I say in my music."
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