Godfather of Boo-Yaa T.R.I.B.E. Passes Away

Some sad news circulated  hip-hop circles over the weekend, when it was learned that Godfather (of legendary L.A. group Boo-Yaa T.R.I.B.E.) had passed away.

While his death has been confirmed, the circumstances surrounding his passing are currently unclear.

Godfather was one of seven members of the Boo-Yaa T.R.I.B.E., alongside his actual brothers Gawtti, Kobra, Monsta O, Ganxsta Ridd, E.K.A, and Murder One. The brothers first gained attention as a dance crew called the Blue City Strutters, before eventually making the transition into music, releasing their debut album New Funky Nation in 1990.

Following a number of indie projects, Boo-Yaa’s 2003 album West Koasta Nostra was among their most notable, featuring a star-studded guest list, with appearances from the likes of Eminem, B-Real, Mack 10, Kurupt, WC and Crooked I.

The group as a whole were widely respected (and feared) throughout the industry.

News of Godfather’s death shocked many West Coast veterans.

“#RIP Godfather. You and #BooYahTribe laid the path for us. You’re a Carson legend & moree than that; a West Coast TripleOG!” Ras Kass wrote on IG.

“Sad news. Rest in paradise OG west coast legend and icon,” wrote Paul Wall.

“Saddest news this year, the passing of a good brother OG Godfather — Booyaa Tribe,” said legendary photographer Estevan Oriol. “Sorry to hear this bad news my homies.”

https://www.ballerstatus.com/2018/04/29/godfather-of-boo-yaa-t-r-i-b-e-passes-away/