The heartbreaking announcement from the cherished family of Chino XL reverberated with the tragic news that the iconic rapper had succumbed to suicide in the month of July. In a deeply emotional statement to Rolling Stone, they shared, "With a sorrow that defies words, we reluctantly inform you that our beloved patriarch, our guiding light, chose to end his earthly journey. This has been a excruciating and intimate ordeal for us, yet, in the spirit of Suicide Awareness Month, we find solace in sharing this truth, hoping it might serve as a beacon for others to cling to life."
The family further disclosed that the New York-bred rapper, Derek Keith Barbosa, bravely battled "congenital heart failure in 2020 and, earlier this year, was confronted with stage 4 prostate cancer," all while grappling with a lifelong struggle against depression. "The Ventura County Medical Examiner's report poignantly notes asphyxia due to ligature hanging as the official cause of his passing," the statement solemnly continued.
Barbosa's daughters, voices filled with adoration and gratitude, chimed in, "Our father, our unwavering rock and cherished confidant, Papa Bear, imbued us with invaluable lessons and unconditional love. The overwhelming flood of tributes on social media, in the form of heartfelt messages, testimonials, and posts, underscores the profound impact he had on countless lives. He inspired, consoled, and left an indelible creative legacy that transcends time. We are forever grateful for the precious moments shared with Dad and are humbled by the global outpouring of love that continues to surround us."
Back in July, when the daughters initially confirmed their father's passing, they eloquently stated, "Our father wore many mantles—King of Punchlines, Puerto Rican Superhero—but above all, he was the epitome of 'Girl Dad.' In this role, he imparted his strength, candor, and uncanny realism. As we grapple with our loss, we find solace in knowing that Dad has found peace, and so, we too, shall strive for tranquility."
Throughout his storied career in the music industry, Chino XL's unapologetic lyricism earned him both reverence and controversy. Born in the vibrant borough of the Bronx, New York, he proudly hailed from Puerto Rican descent. His discography boasts four stellar studio albums, culminating in the release of 'Ricanstruction: The Black Rosary' in 2012, which marked both the pinnacle and the conclusion of his artistic journey. Hits like "No Complex," the collaborative masterpiece "Sickology 101" with Tech N9ne, and the anthemic "The Anthem" alongside Sway and King Tech, remain timeless testaments to his unparalleled talent.
In 2008, Barbosa lent his voice to Mike Ford's groundbreaking 'Hip-Hop Architecture Camp,' a visionary initiative aimed at diversifying the realm of architecture by empowering students to create Lego models inspired by rap lyrics. Reflecting on the experience, he shared with Rolling Stone, "Having traversed this world for decades, I've encountered myriad circles, yet, personally, I can honestly say I've never encountered a melanated architect. Just the mere knowledge that this path exists for these young minds is a victory in itself."
