Prodigy’s legacy looms large in New York City, where fans swarmed to honor the late rapper.
A vast number of hip-hop legends arrived to say their final farewell to Prodigy in New York City yesterday. However, the number of fans who honored the late rapper dwarfed even the biggest names in the music industry.
Family members first held a private funeral ceremony at Frank E. Campbell Funeral Chapel in New York City. That’s also the place where Notorious B.I.G was laid to rest while Prodigy was still ascending.
Prodigy’s closest confidents, big names in the industry, and celebrity rappers and producers all attended the funeral. LL Cool J, 50 Cent, and Ice-T were among those who honored the late rapper.
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Perhaps this was part celebration and reunion, as well. The funeral service also featured a live band. 50 Cent also gave a eulogy bidding the rapper farewell. At the service, the rapper took a picture with Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan. He wrote on Instagram,
“I never spoke at a wake or funeral before but I felt like I had to say something at P’s. Rest in Peace prodigy God Bless.”
The stars appeared visibly emotional. Fat Joe, Remy Ma, and Mobb Deep partner Havoc also paid their respects to the late rapper yesterday.
Prodigy’s family also held a public funeral ceremony at the funeral chapel. Fans lined up to honor the late rapper, covering an entire city block. A video uploaded by Twitter shows at least 500 fans waiting outside the funeral chapel.
People wait patiently in line to show their respect and love for #Prodigy during his funeral viewing in #NewYorkCity. #MobbDeep pic.twitter.com/mQ1GiYEubF
— Patrick Beverly (@namespatbeverly) 29 de junio de 2017
Prodigy passed away on June 20th following his hospitalization in Las Vegas. He had suffered complications involving chronic sickle cell anemia. The rapper had dealt with the sickness since he was born. Though an official cause of death has not yet been released, he reportedly passed away from accidental asphyxiation.
Following the rapper’s sudden passing, his representative issued a statement.
“It is with extreme sadness and disbelief that we confirm the death of our dear friend Albert Johnson, better known to millions of fans as Prodigy of legendary NY rap duo Mobb Deep. Prodigy was hospitalized a few days ago in Vegas after a Mobb Deep performance for complications caused by a sickle cell anemia crisis.
“As most of his fans know, Prodigy battled the disease since birth. The exact causes of death have yet to be determined. We would like to thank everyone for respecting the family’s privacy at this time.”
Nas would reportedly attend the funeral but couldn’t make it yesterday. On Instagram, the rapper wrote his condolences and expressed what Prodigy meant to him.
“A moment of silence for a great lyricist. Poet. Wordsmith. Fighter. Hip Hop King. This one hit home. Glad we spoke a little before your transition. Time is precious, don’t waste it, have those difficult conversations now because tomorrow is never promised. Luv Forever. Wish I was in America to see u off today MY G. Sendin Luv & Light to Havoc & Condolences to your families. RIP P may your light help us find our way! Shout out to Hempstead L.I. and the 41 side of 12th St, QB YERRRRRR!! THUNNNNNNNN ! One Love.”
Image by Tobias Nielsen (CC by 2.0)