Atlanta rapper Young Capone has tragically passed away aged only 35. The emcee went missing last month and had not been seen for an extended period before police found his body.
The news of his passing was announced by his publicist, Aleesha Carter, on August 15th. In a statement posted to Instagram, Carter wrote, “This is with a heavy, heavy heart that I’m even posting this. We made magic when we strategically put out projects, always. Young Capone, aka Dopeboy Ra, aka Rara, was one of my first Hip Hop/ Rap clients, and I can’t believe the news I just got of his unexpected passing!”
She continued, “A friend…a client and just huge in East Atlanta. This is not the easiest post at all. Rest easy, RIP.” A cause of death has not yet been made available to the public. However, news of the artist’s demise has shaken hip-hop, and tributes have been pouring in.
Carter’s official statement was accompanied by a clip from his music video with Mario, Choosin, and artwork honouring the late Atlanta lyricist.
Young Capone (real name Rodriguez Smith) was a member of T.I.’s Grand Hustle Records. As such, the Atlanta label executive was quick to release a statement, reading, “The Grand Hustle family is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Rara (formally known as Young Capone). We are sending our sincere condolences to his family, children, friends and the Atlanta community.”
The passage continued, “Our Grand Hustle brother will be truly missed for his remarkable presence and effortless talent.” T.I. was not the only Atlanta artist to pay tribute, as Jermaine Dupri also sent his condolences to the lyricist’s family.
Capone’s manager, Djuan Hart, took to Instagram with the music video for Friends, with a tribute reading, “Really not the type of post i wanna be posting man. The making of this video was the first thing came to mind when I heard shawty was deceased. Big talent no… Condolences to his family and loved ones.”