Afrika Bambaataa, the Bronx-born rapper and DJ widely recognized as one of the foundational figures of hip-hop, has died aged 67.
The musician died in Philadelphia at around 3am local time due to complications from cancer, TMZ reported.
Bambaataa was instrumental in helping introduce hip-hop to a wider audience and played a major role in shaping the culture’s early identity. He was also the founder of the Universal Zulu Nation, an organization that became closely associated with hip-hop’s early development and its emphasis on peace, unity, love and fun.
The Hip-Hop Alliance, a group headed by musician Kurtis Blow, paid tribute to Bambaataa in a statement that described him as a “foundational architect of hip-hop culture.” The statement said his work helped establish hip-hop as a global movement.
Born in the Bronx, Bambaataa became a significant presence in the rise of hip-hop as both a musical form and a cultural force. His influence extended beyond music, helping to define the movement’s values and public identity during its formative years.
Alongside his legacy in hip-hop, Bambaataa was also accused of child sexual abuse.
