The music world has lost another star. Rico Wade, a trailblazing producer and founding member of the legendary Dungeon Family has died.
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Wade, known for his work with the production group Organized Noize, passed away at the age of 52. The cause of his death has not been revealed.
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The news of Wade’s passing was shared by Grammy Award-winning rapper Killer Mike in an emotional Instagram post.
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It read, “I don’t have the words to express my deep and profound sense of loss. I am Praying for your wife and Children. I am praying for the Wade family. I am praying for us all.”
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Wade’s musical journey began in the 1980s in Atlanta’s vibrant music scene, where he was influenced by funk, soul, and hip-hop.
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As a co-founder of the Dungeon Family in the early 1990s, Wade played a pivotal role in pushing the boundaries of hip-hop with his innovative production style, blending Southern funk, soulful melodies, and socially conscious lyrics.
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His collaborations with artists like OutKast and TLC produced timeless hits like “Waterfalls” and helped elevate Atlanta’s rap scene to national prominence.
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Wade’s impact on the music community was profound, shaping the careers of artists like, Goodie Mob and Future, who was his cousin, Ludacris, Janelle Monáe and more.
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As we mourn his passing, we celebrate his legacy and the countless lives he touched through his talent and creativity.