American rapper Gangsta Boo has died suddenly at the age of 43, according to reports.
Three 6 Mafia’s female rap pioneer, real name Lola Chantrell Mitchell, was found dead on Sunday afternoon around 4 pm in Memphis, Tennessee, FOX affiliate FOX13 reported.
Mitchell’s former label mate DJ Paul appeared to confirm that she had passed away, according to a report from the entertainment website TMZ.
He shared a photo of her via Instagram late on Sunday afternoon.
Gangsta Boo worked with other rappers like Paul, Juicy J, Lord Infamous, Crunchy Black, and Koopsta Knicca — and was featured on the rap group’s first 5 studio albums, including Three 6 Mafia’s debut record.
She went on to leave the group in the early 200os and make a name for herself with solo projects.
Shortly after the news broke, tributes to the groundbreaking artist began to pour in via Twitter.
“Rest In Peace Gangsta Boo The first lady of Three 6 Mafia,” Andrew Barber tweeted.
“An incredible artist who could ride a beat like no other & transcended generations in a fickle business.
“Her solo debut ‘Enquiring Minds’ remains one of the best of the Hypnotize Minds canon.
“Peace & love to her family.”
“Gangsta Boo wasn’t just this pioneer for women in rap,” another said.
“She was a foundational figure in music. you’d never know just by talking to her, because she was such a sweet, self-effacing person who’d never tout her many accomplishments unbidden.
“This is just f***ing awful.”
Singer K. Michelle added, “You already know what it is.
“We FOREVER! Broke my whole heart today sis.
“I love you. #Memphis R.I.P. Gangsta Boo.”
You already know what it is. We FOREVER! Broke my whole heart today sis. I love you ❤️#memphis R.I.P Gangsta Boo pic.twitter.com/fGV6simLyt
— K. Michelle (@kmichelle) January 1, 2023
“According to reports, Memphis rapper #GangstaBoo of #Three6Mafia has died at the age of 43,” WorldStarHipHop said in a tweet offering condolences.
“Her cause of death is currently unknown.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.”
According to reports, Memphis rapper #GangstaBoo of #Three6Mafia has died at the age of 43. Her cause of death is currently unknown. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. pic.twitter.com/hDyS9uBCOp
— WORLDSTARHIPHOP (@WORLDSTAR) January 1, 2023
No official cause of death has yet been reported.
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