Chuck D, Ice-T & More Mourn Bronx-Bred Rapper Chino XL

Ice-T is among the many rappers mourning the death of Chino XL. AllHipHop first reported his untimely passing on Monday (July 29) and the news quickly spread across social media, with countless people paying their respects to the Bronx-bred MC.

The Original Gangster, however, took his time to pen his tribute to his longtime friend. An Instagram post arrived on Tuesday (July 30) that read: "This one REALLY hurts… Yesterday morning I got the awful news and did not want to believe it was true.. Chino was so ALIVE.. What!!? Unfortunately it was true.. I rarely shed a tear… I’ve lost so many homies but THIS one got me Fd up.

"People know he was an incredible MC. But Chino was a truly GREAT MAN. This is a tragedy. My love and condolences go out to his family. Homie you are loved by so many. Rest in Peace."

Ice-T's sentiments follow an Instagram post from Chino XL's family. Understandably, they are asking for privacy as they grieve. Once again, the cause of death wasn't confirmed, but a joint statement from his daughters appear to suggest suicide. 

"The family of Derek Keith Barbosa, professionally known as Chino XL, is devastated to relay the news of his passing," he said. "Chino died on the morning of Sunday, July 28, 2024 at home. He was 50. Chino is survived by his children, Chynna, Bella, Lyric, Kiyana; his stepson Shawn; grandchildren Emmy, Emery, Chris, Luis, and Dyani; his mother, Carole; and his former longtime partner Stephanie.

"In a joint statement, his daughters reflect: 'Our father had many titles — King of Punchlines, Puerto Rican Superhero — but the most important one was Girl Dad. 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.' The family asks for privacy at this time. Details of a memorial will be forthcoming."

Chuck D was another Hip Hop peer paying his respects in a tweet, which included a sketch of Chino. He wrote: "This ones a tough one. I admired Dj Polo as a ⁦@hiphopgods⁩ PEer. ⁦@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 & art." 

Twitter and Instagram are flooded with condolences for Chino XL's family. Termanology, Pete Rock, Esoteric, Sage Francis and Naughty By Nature are just a sliver of the artists reacting to the news. RAPstation sends our support to all those who loved him.