Chino XL, incendiary and masterful rapper who warred with Tupac, has died
As a movie reviewer who’s spent a significant portion of my life immersed in the world of hip-hop and rap, I can confidently say that Chino XL was more than just a rapper; he was a poet with a penchant for pushing boundaries and a heart full of compassion. His life story is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and the unwavering love for his family.
The New York-based rap artist, Chino XL, famed for his feuds with Tupac Shakur and his intricate, vivid rhymes, has passed away at the age of 50.
On Instagram, the family of the rapper known as Derek Keith Barbosa shared: “Our beloved father was called many names – King of Punchlines, Puerto Rican Superhero – yet none were more significant than Girl Dad. He showed us strength, honesty, and a knack for being down-to-earth. Currently, we find comfort knowing that our Dad has found peace, and so do we.” The family did not disclose the cause of death, but confirmed it happened on Sunday.
A post shared by Chino XL (@chinoxl)
The rapper was born in the Bronx to a family of Puerto Rican descent. He quickly excelled at rapping, signing to Rick Rubin’s American Recordings at 16. His debut album, “Here to Save You All,” was released in 1996 to critical acclaim. That album’s best-known single was “Riiiot!,” which featured the instantly infamous line “I’m trying not to get f— like Tupac in jail. ”
The lyric enraged Shakir (I’m assuming you meant Shakur), prompting him to release the song “Hit ‘Em Up” where he threatened Chino XL and others with slow deaths. My .44 ensures that none of them will live long lives.
Barbosa added three more albums to his repertoire: “I Told You So” in 2001, followed by “Poison Pen” in 2006, and his swansong, “Ricanstruction: The Black Rosary,” released in 2012. This last album, often praised as his finest work, includes the heart-wrenching track “Father’s Day.” In this song, he expresses the agony of taking his child, battling cancer, to the hospital. He laments, “If only my weak hands could extract / The neuroblastoma tumor from your adrenal glands,” and admits, “This is a father’s sorrow / That I can’t protect you from everything.”
He also recently guested on rap legend Rakim’s new album, “G.O.D.’S Network (Reb7rth).”
During his journey, Barbosa dedicated time at an architecture program for underprivileged youth. In an interview with Rolling Stone in 2018, he shared, “In all my years on this earth and the various circles I’ve moved in, I can’t remember ever encountering a black architect. Merely letting these kids know that such a profession exists is crucial.”
Apart from being an actor, he had roles on “Reno 911!” and “CSI: Miami,” and starred alongside Kate Hudson and Luke Wilson in the 2003 film “Alex & Emma.” Notable figures in the rap community, such as podcaster Joe Budden, expressed their sorrow over his passing online.
As a movie enthusiast, I’d like to share some heartwarming news about the family I’ve been part of: my children Chynna, Bella, Lyric, and Kiyana; my stepson Shawn; grandkids Emmy, Emery, Chris, Luis, and Dyani; my dear mother Carole; and my longtime companion Stephanie all continue to carry on our shared memories. Barbosa, who I was fortunate to love and be loved by, is deeply missed but never forgotten in our circle.
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2024-07-31 03:31