Featured Stories

By Julianna Caban |

‘Gangsta’s Paradise’ rapper Coolio dead at 59

(LOS ANGELES, CA) — Rapper Coolio, known for genre-defining songs that include “Gangsta’s Paradise” and “Fantastic Voyage,” died Wednesday afternoon in Los Angeles. He was 59.

Artis Leon Ivey Jr., known as Coolio, was discovered unresponsive at a friend’s house on the 2900 block of South Chesapeake Ave.

Paramedics were forced to perform ‘resuscitation efforts for approximately 45 minutes,’ according to CNN.

“We are saddened by the loss of our dear friend and client, Coolio, who passed away this afternoon,” Coolio’s talent manager Sheila Finegan told CNN.

“He touched the world with the gift of his talent and will be missed profoundly. Thank you to everyone worldwide who has listened to his music and to everyone who has been reaching out regarding his passing. Please have Coolio’s loved ones in your thoughts and prayers.”

Throughout his career, Coolio achieved many awards that include a Grammy for best solo rap performance for “Gangsta’s Paradise,” and additionally nominated for 5 other Grammys.

Many artists in the music industry expressed sadness and grief over Coolio’s passing, which include Ice Cube, Questlove, and Flavor Flav.