Chino XL Has Passed Away At 50
Bronx-born lyrical powerhouse of Puerto Rican descent, Chino XL has unfortunately passed away on the morning of July 28th, aged 50. The cause of death is currently unknown.
Born Derek Emmanuel Barbosa, Chino XL made his first waves in 1996 with his debut album, “Here To Save You All.” The album featured smashing tracks like “No Complex,” “Kreep,” and “Deliver.” It was the first of four solo LP’s in Chino’s discography. “I Told You So” followed in 2001, “Poison Pen” was next in line in 2006, and his final solo outing was in 2012, with “Ricanstruction: The Black Rosary.” The latter of which won HHUG’s Album of The Year Award.
Chino also delved into acting waters, appearing in shows such as “Reno 911!” and “CSI: Miami,” as well as several full-length motion pictures. He remained musically active throughout the years, supposedly preparing new solo material before his untimely passing. Most recently, he appeared on Rakim’s “THE REB7RTH” album, joining Canibus, KXNG Crooked, and La The Darkman on “Pendulum Swing.”
Chino’s outstanding lyrical capabilites and contributions to the culture will remain written in Hip-Hop’s history books.
May he rest in peace.
