Rico Wade, a key figure in shaping the sound of Southern hip-hop as a member of Organized Noize and co-founder of the Dungeon Family group, has passed away at the age of 52. His family confirmed his death on Sunday, but no further were provided.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens acknowledged Wade's influence, stating, "Rico led in the creation of a hip-hop sound that has spanned decades and genres. Rico left an indelible mark on music and culture around the world."

Wade's impact on the music industry was profound, having worked with OutKast, Goodie Mob, and TLC. He also co-wrote TLC's hit song 'Waterfalls' and collaborated on numerous other chart-topping tracks such as En Vogue's 'Don't Let Go (Love),' and Ludacris' 'Saturday (Oooh! Ooooh!).'

In a joint statement, Organized Noize and the Dungeon Family mourned Wade's passing, describing him as "one of the most innovative architects in music." Killer Mike, who started out with the Dungeon Family, said in a post on Instagram:

“I don’t have the words to express my deep and profound sense of loss,” Killer Mike wrote on Instagram. “I am praying for your wife and children. I am praying for the Wade family. I am praying for us all. I deeply appreciate your acceptance into the Dungeon Family, mentorship, friendship and brotherhood. Idk where I would be without y’all. This is a part of the journey. You told me 'It ain’t been hard throughout the journey, it’s been a Journey.’ The journey ain’t gonna be the Same Journey without U.”

 

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With artists like Future crediting him for launching their careers, Wade helped define the distinctive sound of Southern hip-hop, influencing generations of musicians.

Numerous artists and rappers have shared tributes in honour of Wade, including En Vogue, ScHoolboy Q, Alchemist, Juicy J, El-P, Open Mike Eagle, and Mike Will Made-It.

Listen to 'So Fresh, So Clean' by Outkast below: