Hip Hop Legend Grand Daddy I.U. Dies At 54
Grand Daddy I.U., a rapper, producer and media host who was also an early gatekeeper of hip-hop culture, has died. He was 54.
I.U. emerged as an emcee during the late 1980s and became a leading artist on the iconic label Cold Chillin’ Records among the likes of Biz Markie, Big Daddy Kane, MC Shan, Roxanne Shanté and others.
In 1990, Grand Daddy I.U. released his debut album, which contained the hit records “Sugar-Free” and “Something New”, which peaked on the charts at No. 9 and No. 11 respectively.
As a producer, I.U. worked with fellow rap legends Das EFX, KRS-One, Ice-T and Heltah Skeltah.
Hip Hop pays tribute to the late Juice Crew member.
Rap legend LL Cool J led tributes for his friend:
Rest in power King. HipHop was in your DNA. @granddaddy_iu Thank You for your contribution.
Busta Rhymes expressed his shock at the news and commented:
Waking up to this crazy. RIP ALMIGHTY GDIU!
Method Man also passed on his condolences, writing:
Whaaaaaat?! No way! Long Island Legend … rest in power King.
Pete Rock was one of the first to react to the news and said in an Instagram post:
Grand Daddy I.U. died peacefully in his sleep.
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