Chicago footwork legend DJ Rashad has reportedly died. While details are scarce, it is believed that the cause of death is a drug overdose. Detroit's DJ Godfather tweeted about the news, suggesting that he had heard back from a few of Rashad's close friends. Godfather was scheduled to DJ tonight alongside Rashad and DJ Spinn at the Inhale Art Expo in Detroit.
Rashad, born Rashad Harden, has been a staple in the footwork scene for many years now. His last album, Double Cup, was released in October 2013. Earlier this month, he released a new EP called We On 1. Constantly on the road, he opened up for Chance The Rapper during the Social Experiment Tour this fall.
I'm hearing some very disturbing news I need a confirmation about....
@DJShortstop DJ Rashad passed away
@khal a few of his close peeps
[via Do Androids Dance]
UPDATE: A spokesman for Hyperdub Records, the label that released Double Cup, has said that an official statement will be released Monday morning.
UPDATE: Authorities have confirmed Rashad's death this afternoon. He was found unresponsive by a friend in his apartment on West 21st Street on the Lower East Side of Chicago. According to the Cook County Medical Examiner's office, he was pronounced dead at the scene at 1:50PM. He was found with both narcotics and paraphernalia near his body.
[via ABC]
UPDATE: The music community reacts to the tragic passing of DJ Rashad. View some of the tweets below.
if its true that DJ Rashad died, thats sad news. so sad :(
Music lost a legend today. And he was my friend. Love you DJ Rashad. RIP
Music lost a legend ... DJ Rashad will be missed .. My prayers go out to everyone saddened by this tragedy
Really sad to hear about DJ Rashad Another inspirational pioneer of an amazing wave of music. R.I.P. and thoughts to his family
