Rico Wade, organized Noize producer and founder of the Dungeon family, is laid to rest in a private ceremony in Atlanta

Rico Wade

Rico Wade, organized Noize producer and founder of the Dungeon family, is laid to rest in a private ceremony in Atlanta

Update (April 24, 2024): Rico Wade’s loved ones will say goodbye to the producer on Friday, April 26.

His celebration of life, held at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, will be a private, invitation-only event. Details about the ceremony are scarce, but Clark Atlanta University’s 68-piece band will be on hand to perform some of Organized Noize’s biggest hits outside the church.

New York TimesChristopher Weingarten said of the late producer:

“Wade’s open doors and nurturing vision became the engine of Atlanta’s creative explosion, shifting the spotlight from New York and Los Angeles to the homegrown sounds of artists like Outkast, Goodie Mob, Killer Mike, Janelle Monáe and ultimately Wade’s younger cousin Future. ”

Original story (April 14, 2024):

Prayers up for the Atlanta-based producer’s family Rico Wade.

Yesterday (April 13), family and friends of one of southern hip-hop’s pioneers announced that he has sadly passed away at the age of 52.

Rico Wade

One of the Rico Wades deer friends, grammy award winning rapper Killer Mike, was one of the first big names to publicly confirm the producer’s transition from life. Sharing various images of Rico Wade, Killer Mike wrote on his Instagram:

“I do not have the words to express my deep and profound sense of loss. I pray for your wife and children. My prayers are for the Wade family. I pray for all of us. I deeply appreciate your acceptance into The Dungeon Family, mentorship, friendship and brotherhood. I don’t know where I would be without you.”

He added:

“This is part of the journey. You told me, “It hasn’t been hard the whole journey, it’s been a journey.” The journey won’t be the same journey without You. As You say, Umma, “Stay seated”…we all are. Love and respect Michael #RipRicoWade#WeDF#OrganizedNoize#MusicalGenius”

Other hip-hop veterans such as Chuck D, Juicy J, Bizz Markieand more have also shared their condolences on social media Wades dead. If Killer Mike noted, Wading is credited with helping shape the sound of Southern hip-hop music, along with the co-founders of his Organized Noize production company Ray Murry And Sleepy Brown. The trio is also known for developing The Dungeon Family Collective, featuring artists such as Killer Mike, UitKast, Ceelo Green, Wades younger cousin Futureand more.

The Dungeon Family Collective

Additionally, Organized noise were also reportedly involved in producing a few notable R&B hits, including as TLCs “Waterfalls” and Mistas “Blackberry molasses.” At this time, not many details have been shared about the nature of Wades pass. However, his family did release a statement on the matter, writing:

“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 our loved one’s legacy and our privacy at this time.”

Rico Wade

(THROUGH)

Leave some well wishes for the Wade family in the comments below!