Music veteran Talib Kweli has come forward to shed some thoughts on the shocking passing of rapper Pumpkinhead this week.
Kweli took to his Instagram page to reflect on the rapper’s legacy and revealed their childhood years together.
Music executive Graeme “GMS” Sibirsky has confirmed Pumpkinhead’s passing.
The cause of death is unknown, though the rapper had been admitted to a New Jersey hospital earlier this week for minor surgery. The rapper’s death was confirmed to Rolling Stone by Graeme “GMS” Sibirsky, the co-founder of Diaz’s label MCMI Records. (Rolling Stone)
Rap producer Marco Polo broke the news to fans Tuesday (June 9) afternoon.
Today is a very shitty day. Just got word my brother Pumpkinhead passed away at 5:40am this morning. My condolences to his family…R.I.P.
— Marco Polo (@marcopolobeats) June 9, 2015
One of the first people to give me a shot when I moved to New York and I'm honored to have recorded "Orange Moon Over Brooklyn" with you.
— Marco Polo (@marcopolobeats) June 9, 2015
Various hip-hop artists almost immediately reacted to the heartbreaking news.
R.I.P. Pumpkinhead. Sad news. @PH_TEAMHOMI
— Aesop Rock (@AesopRockWins) June 9, 2015
https://twitter.com/therealelp/status/608316587632918528
I'm completely devastated. RIP PH. pic.twitter.com/wDmsRaHk20
— PHAROAHE MONCH (@pharoahemonch) June 9, 2015
[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/209562419″ params=”color=ff5500″ width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]
Pumpkinhead’s run in hip-hop started nearly two decades ago.
Pumpkinhead broke through with his 1997 single “Dynamic,” which he followed with four solo albums. He most recently dropped Know the Ledge in 2011. In addition, he appeared on tracks from Jean Grae and Immortal Technique. He was also a respected battle rapper. (Exclaim!)
RIP Robert! Last night the fellas from The Slope reminisced about the old times. You went from a kid on 5th ave and Degraw to a Hip Hop legend! You’ll be missed tremendously! Rest In Paradise!