November 28, (THEWILL) – American rapper cum composer, Don Newkirk, has died at the age of 56.
Rahiem of the defunct American Hip Pop singing group, Furious Five, shared the sad news about Newkirk’s demise on Saturday, with a Facebook post. However, the cause of his death was not disclosed.
“It is with a heavy heart I announce the transitioning of my brother, Don Newkirk.
“Fifty-six years young. Don Newkirk was among the first R&B artistes signed to Def Jam records. My condolences go out to his family. S.I.P bro”, he wrote.
Similarly, De La Soul, one of the artistes he collaborated with, also took to Instagram to pay tribute to Newkirk.
“Ever since high school, we all knew Don Newkirk was undoubtedly a special kind. Fearless in expression and just a positive, talented vessel destined for success. His voice was the final cherry on top that closed our album ‘3ft High and Rising’. Thank you Don, may you rest peacefully fam”, he wrote.
After delivering voiceovers on De La Soul’s 1989 debut, Three Feet High and Rising, Newkirk dropped his first album, Funk City, on Def Jam R&B subsidiary, OBR.
Newkirk also worked with 3rd Bass and Prince Paul.
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