US rapper Chino XL has died aged 50, his family has confirmed.
The official cause of death of the actor and rapper, born Derek Keith Barbosa, has not been made public.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Chino XL performs No Complex.
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According to the statement from his family, posted on Barbosa’s Instagram account on Tuesday, he died on Sunday, July 28 in his home.
His daughters Chynna, Bella, Lyric and Kiyana Barbosa said in a statement: “Our father had many titles — King of Punchlines, Puerto Rican Superhero — but the most important one was Girl Dad.
“And what he gave us most in that role was his strength, straightforwardness, and ability to be super realistic.”
“The main thing we are feeling now is that our Dad is at peace, and so we are at peace.”
The family asked for privacy and said a memorial was “forthcoming”.
Growing up in New Jersey, Barbosa took on the rap name Chino XL, from his childhood moniker Chino.
In 1991 his rap career kicked off, signing with Rick Rubin’s Def American Recordings.
Some of his hit songs include No Complex, Kreep, Freestyle Rhymes and Riiot!
He went on to be known as “Lyrical Messiah” after releasing four solo albums, as per Variety.
His most recent work was featured on rapper Rakim’s latest album G.O.D.’s Network (Reb7rth), for the track Pendulum Swing, released on July 26.
American media personality and broadcaster Joe Budden took to X: “Damn … RIP to the legend Chino XL.”
Rapper Chuck D said on X: “This one’s a tough one … Chino XL was my brother in rhyme and art. He encouraged my graphics forward.
“We exchanged art books. He looked out to protect my lyric books better. He supported my events. We supported his music.”
“This one REALLY hurts,” rapper and actor Ice-T said on Instagram Wednesday morning.
“Yesterday morning I got the awful news and did not want to believe it was true. I’ve lost so many homies but THIS one got me Fd up.
“People know he was an incredible MC. But Chino was a truly GREAT MAN. This is a tragedy.
“My love and condolences go out to his family. Homie you are loved by so many. Rest in Peace Homie.”
Barbosa is survived by his children, Chynna, Bella, Lyric, Kiyana; his stepson Shawn; grandchildren Emmy, Emery, Chris, Luis, and Dyani; his mother, Carole; and his former longtime partner Stephanie.
