Hip Hop mourns the passing of legendary rap star Chino XL.
It was reported that the multi-hyphenate entertainer, real name Derek Emmanuel Barbosa, died on Monday evening (July 29). He was 50.
Barbosa’s family released the following statement on his passing:
“The family of Derek Keith Barbosa, professionally known as Chino XL, is devastated to relay the news of his passing. Chino died on the morning of Sunday, July 28, 2024 at home. He was 50.
Chino is survived by his children, Chynna, Bella, Lyric, Kiyana; his stepson Shawn; grandchildren Emmy, Emery, Chris, Luis, and Dyani; his mother, Carole; and his former longtime partner Stephanie.
In a joint statement, his daughters reflect: ‘Our father had many titles — King of Punchlines, Puerto Rican Superhero — but the most important one was Girl Dad. And what he gave us most in that role was his strength, straightforwardness, and ability to be super realistic. The main thing we are feeling now is that our Dad is at peace, and so we are at peace.’
The family asks for privacy at this time. Details of a memorial will be forthcoming.”
Chino XL was revered as an elite lyricist in the 90s. His legacy includes an intense rivalry with Tupac Shakur. The two made peace before 2Pac passed in 1996.
The Bronx native’s career began at 16. He signed his first deal in 1990 with American Recordings, founded by the legendary producer Rick Rubin (Jay-Z, LL Cool J). The Puerto Rican rap star released his debut album, Here To Save You All, in 1996.
Chino XL’s catalog includes four solo albums, two collaboration albums, and collaborations with Big Pun, Tech 9ine, Immortal Technique, Kool G Rap, Proof of D-12, and more. He appeared on Rakim‘s new track, “Pendulum Swing,” from his album G.O.Ds Network—Reb7th, his first album in 15 years, released on July 25 via Holy Toledo Productions/ Compound Interest.
He began acting in the early 2000s with roles in Reno 911!, CSI: Miami, The Young and the Restless, and Zane’s Sex Chronicles. Between acting, he continued to tour across the nation as recently as last month.
Hip-hop stars and fans paid homage to the “Kreep” hitmaker on social media. “Damn… RIP to the legend Chino XL,” tweeted rapper-turned-media personality Joe Budden.
West Coast Hip Hop legend Crooked I wrote on X: “We spoke on the phone the other day and laughed. Our careers have been tied together since the Wake Up Show freestyles decades ago. I’m fucked up. Rest in Peace my brother Chino XL.”
“This ones a tough one,” tweeted Public Enemy’s Chuck D with a drawing of Chino XL and DJ Polo of Kool G Rap & DJ Polo. “I admired Dj Polo as a @hiphopgods PEer. @CHINOXL was my brother in rhyme & Art. He encouraged my graphics forward. We exchanged art books. He looked out to protect my lyric books better. He supported my events. We supported his music & rt.”
Legendary producer Termanology shared a photo of him, Chino XL, and Statik Selektah with tweet, “Damn [heartbroken emoji] R.I.P. Chino XL Love You bro. Til we meet again.”
Rap star Emilio Rojas posted on X: “Chino XL. Man. He was such a talented MC and great person. Here to save you all stayed in rotation for me. Wow. Rest in peace king. Thank you for the music. Thank you for always being kind and humble to me and everyone you ever met. Wow.”
Popular Texas promoter and a fan of Chino XL, who became friends with his idol, Lorenzo “Smooth Vega” Zenteno, posted a photo of Chino XL and Immortal Technique on Facebook with a heartbreaking message. It reads:
“Just got the news that Chino XL passed. I am beyond heartbroken. You know very rarely do you got an opportunity to work with people that you idolize but I not only got that opportunity, I was able to befriend one of my idols. Chino knew how I felt about him, I expressed to him on many occasions how he impacted my career and how he impacted my life. He took a chance on at young kid in 2006… his stamp of approval meant everything to me… without his contributions to my career, I most certainly wouldn’t be here today. I love you brother… you will always be one of the greatest ever… I’m going to miss you.”
His five children survive Chino XL.