The revered figure in Atlanta’s rap scene, Rico Wade, has been laid to rest after a life dedicated to shaping Southern Hip Hop.
On Friday (April 26), the Dungeon Family producer (real name Rico Renard Wade), who passed away on April 13 at the age of 52, was commemorated during an intimate ceremony attended by close friends and family.
In a video clip that hit X/Twitter, Rico’s casket can be seen exiting Ebenezer First Baptist Church in Atlanta.
Also in attendance were OutKast and record producer Daz Dillinger, both of whom were also part of the Dungeon Family, a collective of rappers and producers considered pioneers of Southern Hip Hop. In a snapshot circulating on social media, the trio can be seen posing with a photo bearing Rico’s likeness.
“We are deeply saddened by the sudden and unexpected passing of our son, father, husband, and brother Rico Wade. Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of a talented individual who touched the lives of so many. We ask that you respect the legacy of our loved one and our privacy at this time,” said Wade’s family in a statement, upon news of his passing.
Killer Mike, who recently joined forces with Rico on his Grammy award-winning album MICHAEL, also delivered a heartfelt message, on Instagram writing: ““I don’t have the words to express my deep and profound sense of loss. I am Praying for your wife and Children. I am praying for the Wade family. I am praying for us all.”
He continued, “I deeply appreciate your acceptance into The Dungeon Family, mentorship, Friendship and Brotherhood. Idk where I would be without ya’ll. 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. Like U say tho Umma “Stay Down on it”……we all are. Love and Respect, Michael.”
According to WBS-TV 2 Atlanta, after the funeral, a procession for Wade was slated to make its way along N. MLK Jr. Drive toward Mercedes-Benz Stadium.