Veteran Los Angeles DJ/producer Ras G has passed away at the age of 39, according to several friends and affiliates. Social media posts started popping up revealing the news on Monday (July 29).
In an Instagram post from live screen printing company Hit + Run, the caption describes Ras as a “pillar” of Hip Hop culture.
“Safe travels to the next plane(t) G, thank you for always being so gracious,” the caption read. “Ras G, a truly original artist, pillar of culture, innovator, diplomat, wise man and legend of Los Angeles arts.”
Ras has released multiple albums with Brainfeeder (founded by fellow L.A. native Flying Lotus), including 2013’s Back On The Planet. Last month, he dropped Down 2 Earth, Volume 4 with the Ghetto Sci-Fi imprint.
While no cause of death has been reported, Ras experienced serious health issues last December, which he talked about in an Instagram post.
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“On Dec 17 i called a ambulance because i was having shortness of breath(wasn’t the blunts relax),” he explained in the caption. “on arrival to the culver city hospital i was diagnosed with pneumonia, borderline high blood pressure, diabetes, hypothyroid ,and heart failure all WTF?!? To i-self was feeling off but not fully knowing(take yo ass to the doctor to see whuts whut).”
Cut Chemist, another L.A. Hip Hop staple, spoke of Ras’ uniqueness to HipHopDX.
“I always feel comfortable around those certain folks who speak deep space yet are grounded on earth,” the Jurassic 5 turntablist said. “Ras G was that dude. An amazing artist and soul. I will miss our brief yet impactful conversations.”
Social media exploded with reactions to Ras’ passing. Check some of them out below.
