The New York rapper and actor Chinese XL has passed away at 50 years oldas announced by his family in a statement posted on his Instagram account. “The family of Derek Keith Barbosaknown professionally as Chino XL, is devastated to share the news of his passing. Chino died on the morning of Sunday, July 28, 2024 at home. He was 50 years old,” his relatives announced on the social network in a message that they accompanied with a photo of the deceased.

Born in the Bronx and raised in East Orange, New Jersey, Chino XL formed the duo Art of Origin with Kerri Chandler, and they signed to Def Jam Recordings through Warner in 1991, recalls The Hollywood Reporter (THR).

Chino XL, however, found success with his solo career, after his debut in 1996. Over the years, the rapper has collaborated with Kool G Rap, Proof, J. Dilla and B-Real, among others, and also acted in films such as “Alex & Emma,” while appearing on television shows such as the series “CSI Miami“.

Chinese XL had four children: Chynna, Bella, Lyric, Kiyana; a stepson, Shawn; and five grandchildren Emmy, Emery, Chris, Luis and Dyani, who signed the message with their mother, Carole; and her former partner Stephanie. In a joint statement, his daughters reflect on the singer’s personality: “Our father had many titles – King of jokes, Puerto Rican superhero – but the most important was father.”

“And what he gave us most in that role was his strength, simplicity and ability to be super realistic. The main thing we feel now is that our dad is at peace, and so we are at peace,” added his daughters, who did not give details about the reasons for his death.