An outpouring of condolences from rappers, producers and media personalities also filled up social media … Chuck D, Joe Budden, KXNG Crooked, ScHoolBoy Q in addition to battle rap and underground reps all paid respects and shared memories of Chino.
The Bronx-born Chino got his start with Rick Rubin‘s American Recordings and released his debut album on the label in 1996 … enamoring audiences on both the East and West Coast with his multisyllabic wordplay.
California is where Chino would stake his rap legacy … he famously co-starred with Eminem, RZA, and KRS-One on Sway & King Tech’s ’99 single “The Anthem” and engaged in a lyrical feud with Tupac Shakur before his death.
He was also a featured guest on Rakim‘s new album “G.O.D.s Network – Reb7rth” which dropped last weekend via the song “Pendulum Swing” with Crooked, Canibus and La the Darkman.
The family has yet to release the cause of death, but says plans for a memorial will be announced shortly. Chino was 50.
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RIP