Grand Master Roc Raida—turntablist, producer, and one of the founding members of the almighty DJ crew The X-Ecutioners, passed away this weekend at the age of 37. (2009—officially the worst year ever?) Hailing from NYC, Raida came into the DJ battle scene in the early '80s, and along with fellow X-Men Rob Swift, Mister Sinister, and Total Eclipse, he did much to elevate the art of turntablism to a brand new level.
Roc Raida's 20-plus years in the game also included production duties for such artists as Big L, Smif N' Wessun, Fat Joe,Ghostface, Black Thought, and Linkin Park. As the hip-hop community mourns his tragic death, Complex pays tribute to the master with highlights from his career behind the decks...
Roc Raida as Busta's DJ
As Busta Rhymes' tour DJ for the past couple of years, Roc Raida brought even more energy to the Flipmode Squad frontman's robust live sets. On the day of his death, Busta tweeted: "So unbelievably talented and most importantly such beautiful spirit. I love you my brother. I will never let your name die DJ Roc Raida! We love you, we miss you and we'll never stop reppin' you!" R.I.P., Roc Raida.
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