With the news of hip-hop legend Rico Wade’s death at the age of 52, the Atlanta music world is reeling. It leaves an indelible mark on the cultural landscape, shaping the languages of future generations.
Pioneer of hip-hop music
Rico Wade is not just a producer; he is a master musician, he creates beats and rhythms on the streets of Atlanta and beyond. As a key member of the Grammy Award-winning music production group Organized Noize, Wade has been instrumental in the productions of popular artists such as OutKast, Goodie Mob, and Cee-Lo Green.
Future speaks about growing up in the Dungeon with his cousin Rico Wade #RipRicoWade pic.twitter.com/Q1srcXZQ6M
— O.T.G (@365OTG) April 13, 2024
A Legacy Remembered
Mayor Andre Dickens, in a heartfelt statement, reflected on Wade’s profound impact on Atlanta’s hip-hop culture:
“Rico was a musical genius and one-third of the Grammy Award-winning music production team Organized Noize. A product of Atlanta Public Schools, he led in the creation of a hip-hop sound that has spanned decades and genres. Without Rico Wade, the world may have never experienced The Dungeon Family, OutKast, Goodie Mob, Future, and many more.”
The Atlanta City Council echoed these sentiments, highlighting Wade’s influence on both music and culture:
“Rico Wade, a music pioneer and a cultural architect whose impact resonates far beyond his time. His contributions to hip-hop music and production shaped the sound for generations, making our city a beacon of the new hip-hop era.”
It was rico wade’s mind that gave en vogue their biggest international hit, straight from the A! RIP to a real one! 🕊️
pic.twitter.com/468Bo2BLR3— mahogany papi (@thetrillgent) April 13, 2024
Goodbye friends
Among those mourning Wade’s death was Atlanta rapper Killer Mike, Wade’s close friend and collaborator. Killer Mike expressed his sadness and gratitude in a press release on Instagram:
“There are no words I can say to express how sorry I am. I am praying for your wife and children. I am praying for Wade’s family. I am praying for all of us… The trip wouldn’t be the same without you.”
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It’s a legacy that lives on
As Atlanta grapples with the loss of a music pioneer, Rico Wade’s legacy continues to inspire artists and fans alike. With his talent, creativity, and dedication to his craft, Wade ensures that his legacy will live on through his hits and creative beats.
In the words of Killer Mike, “This tour wouldn’t be the same without you.” Rico Wade may be gone from this world, but his impact on the Atlanta music scene and beyond will resonate for generations to come.
Influenced my life so much back in 94 Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik was my introduction to Dungeon Family. His groups music is definitely the soundtrack to my life.
RIP Rico Wade. pic.twitter.com/IEEQrDUBr9— Duncan Fam (@fam_duncan) April 14, 2024
