The cause of death has not been disclosed.
The Hip-Hop community is mourning after Aesop of the Living Legends crew died suddenly over the weekend. Fellow Living Legend Sunspot Jonz posted about Aesop’s death on Instagram Monday morning (August 18). He wrote, “What an amazing ride we had. I just can’t believe you’re gone. I am Completely crushed -when I heard this morning I burst into tears cursing God because it just ain’t fair. Too soon to go.
“Wanted to go off on a few people around you -and will-they know who they are-but for now I’m gonna concentrate on all the light you gave. Your charisma, smile, the talent, the love you brought to our hearts will never be forgotten. Love you forever my brother Derrick.”
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Aesop, also known as Aesop the Black Wolf, is a founding member of Living Legends. Originating in Los Angeles in the mid-1990s, Living Legends rose to prominence by embodying the indie rap ethos—recording, promoting and selling their music independently.
Aesop and the rest of the Legends—Murs, Luckyiam, Eligh, The Grouch, Sunspot Jonz, Bicasso and Scarub—helped pioneer the West Coast underground rap scene, building a massive grassroots following and influencing generations of independent artists. As part of Living Legends, Aesop contributed to critically acclaimed albums such as Angelz Wit Dirty Faces, Almost Famous and Creative Differences, each celebrated for its innovative lyrical content and collaborative spirit.
Aesop and Living Legends have been praised for their influential role in the indie-rap movement, earning accolades from publications like LA Weekly and maintaining a loyal fan base through continual touring and new releases, such as their 2023 album, The Return.
More recently, The Grouch announced his annual How The Grinch Stole Christmas Tour, which was expected to include all of the Living Legends, Cunninlynguists and Souls of Mischief. His cause of death has not been disclosed.
AllHipHop sends our condolences to Aesop’s loved ones.
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