The family of rapper Chino XL has revealed that the cause of his death in July was suicide.
TMZ reports that the rapper’s family has released a statement about what happened. “With the most profound sadness imaginable, we share the news that our beloved father decided to end his own Life,” it reads. “It’s been the most painful and personal experience of our lives but in honor of Suicide Awareness Month, we decided to share this truth. Dad would hope that this news may help someone else stay alive.”
The Ventura County Medical Examiner’s office lists his official cause of death as asphyxia as a result of ligature hanging.
Chino XL, who’s real name was Derek Emmanuel Barbosa, was born in the Bronx and he grew up in East Orange, New Jersey. He found global recognition with his debut album, Here to Save You All, in 1996. A week before his death, he appeared on Rakim’s first album in 15 years, G.O.D.’s Network (REB7RTH).
At the time of his death, his daughters shared a statement about him with the world. “Our father had many titles — King of Punchlines, Puerto Rican Superhero — but the most important one was Girl Dad,” the statement reads. “And what he gave us most in that role was his strength, straightforwardness, and ability to be super realistic. The main thing we are feeling now is that our Dad is at peace, and so we are at peace.”
Upon the news of his passing being confirmed, hip-hop legends paid their respects to him on social media. Public Enemy MC Chuck D wrote, “@CHINOXL was my brother in rhyme & Art. He encouraged my graphics forward. We exchanged art books. He looked out to protect my lyric books better. He supported my events. We supported his music & 🙏🏿rt."
His collaborator Stu Bangas, who linked up with him for last year’s God’s Carpenter, wrote an emotional statement about working with him that he shared on X. "I thank god that we made that album before he passed," the producer wrote. "We were working on another record, and I spoke to him this Saturday about it....Chino, ....myself and many others loved you bro. You were at the core, a great dude.... and a good friend. We will miss you Bro."
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