Phife Dawg passed away yesterday (March 22), which brought much sadness to the rap community as many took to social media to pay their respects to the A Tribe Called Quest rapper.
The family of Phife Dawg, born Malik I. Taylor, has released a statement about the 45-year-old’s death.
“We regret to share the news that on Tuesday March 22nd, 2016, Malik has passed away due to complications resulting from diabetes.
“Malik was our loving husband, father, brother and friend. We love him dearly. How he impacted all our lives will never be forgotten. His love for music and sports was only surpassed by his love of God and family.”
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Phife Dawg had a long battle with diabetes and had a kidney removed in 2008.
The rapper’s manager, Dion Liverpool, also released a statement.
“While I mourn the loss of my best friend and brother, I also will celebrate his incredible life and contribution to many people’s ears across the world,” he says. “Even with all his success, I have never met a person as humble as he. He taught me that maintaining a positive attitude and outlook can conquer anything. Now my brother is resting in greatness. I’m honored to have crossed paths with him. Riddim Kidz 4eva.”
Riddim Kidz is Phife Dawg’s production company.
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The Five Foot Assassin released five albums with A Tribe Called Quest from 1990’s People’s Instinctive Travels And The Paths Of Rhythm to 1998’s The Love Movement. In 2000, Phife Dawg released a solo album, Ventilation: Da LP.
HipHopDX would like to send its condolences to the family and friends of Phife Dawg.
