Tributes pour in for late hip-hop pioneer Jessie D, who has died aged 58
(Credit: Bobby)

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Tributes pour in for late hip-hop pioneer Jessie D, who has died aged 58

The pioneering Jessie D, who founded Force MDs, has passed away aged 58.

The late star’s real name was Jessie Lee Daniels, and his cause of death is yet to be revealed. He started Force MDs in Staten Island back in 1981 initially with his nephews Stevie D, Antoine’ T.C.D.’ Lundy and Rodney’ Khalil’ Lundy, with ‘Trisco’ Pearson and Charles’ Mercury’ Nelson, later joining the group.

They enjoyed commercial success in 1985 when their track ‘Chillin’ stayed in the Billboard Hot 100 for almost five months and peaked inside the top ten. In 1987, the Force MDs scored their only number one on the Billboard R&B chart with’ Love Is A House’ from their third album.

His death was announced in a post on Force MDs’ Facebook page that read, “To one hell of a entertainer. ‘Jessie D’ of legendary Force MDs. He ate, sleep and breathe music everyday. Please put a heart up for him. He was loved!!!!!!!!!! To the family, friends and fans today we lost a real talent. Our condolences goes out to his siblings, kids and the Force MDs….”

Questlove is among those who have paid tribute. He wrote, “Another legend enters his phase as musical ancestor.” Speaking about Force MDs specifically, the then added, “Probably the one outfit that truly managed to soar from phase one of hip hop (search for those legendary routines from those 82-85 tapes on YouTube) to the mainstream.

“They came from the school of you had to do it all: MC/DJ/battle/dance routines/comedy/know your history (novel idea huh?)/croon/harmonize & engage/entertain.”

Meanwhile, MC Debbie D wrote, “Jessie’s passion to sing along with his big smile and laughter will never be forgotten! It was a pleasure sharing stages like Harlem World with you and the Force!”