Chino XL, complex lyricist and battle rap leader, dead at 50
Chino XL, the American rapper known for his complex lyrical style and battle rap prowess, has died at the age of 50.
The rapper’s family released a joint statement announcing his passing and confirming that he had died at his home. “Our father had many titles—King of Punchlines, Puerto Rican Superhero—but the most important one was Girl Dad,” his daughters wrote.
They continued: “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 rapper, whose real name is Derek Emmanuel Barbosa, released four studio albums throughout his career, including the hit record Ricanstruction: The Black Rosary. Barbosa’s career began at an early age when he co-founded joint venture with producer Koaz, rap duo Art of Origin.
After being signed to Rick Rubin‘s American Recordings at age 16, his debut album, Here to Save You All, received widespread commercial and critical praise.
Barbosa then signed to Metro Records after a failed Black music department at Warner Bros Records delayed his second album, with I Told You So arriving in 2001, followed by his third release in 2006, Poison Pen.
Barbosa’s fourth and final LP, Ricanstruction: The Black Rosary, was released in 2012 and was regarded as his best record to date. Following the news of his death, many peers and contemporaries shared tributes and paid respects, including Joe Budden, who wrote on X: “Damn… RIP to the legend Chino XL.” Evidence also wrote: “Hurts to write, RIP Chino XL.”
KXNG Crooked wrote: “We spoke on the phone the other day and laughed. Our careers have been tied together since the Wake Up Show freestyles decades age. I’m fucked up. Rest in Peace my brother Chino XL.”
Public Enemy‘s Chuck D shared: “This ones a tough one. I admired Dj Polo as a [hip-hop] PEer. [Chino XL] was my brother in rhyme and 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 and art.”