R.I.P. Eyedea

Various news outlets are reporting that Minnesota rapper Eyedea has died at 28.

No details have emerged regarding his passing, beyond a Facebook confirmation from the emcee’s mother, asking for family privacy at this time. He would have turned 29 in less than a month.

Eyedea was well-known as a staple of Rhymesayers Entertainment, and as one half of the duo Eyedea & Abilities, with DJ Abilities. He also recorded albums under the name Oliver Hart and as part of the group Face Candy. Eyedea earned a reputation as one of the worlds premier freestylers. In 1999, at just 18, he won Scribble Jam. The following year he took home top honors at HBO’s Blaze Battle and at the Rocksteady Anniversary show. Afterwards, rumours circulated that Diddy was trying to sign the Minnesota native.

Via DX.