Chino XL, the celebrated rapper and actor, has died at the age of 50. His family confirmed the news on his Instagram account, announcing that he passed away at home on Sunday, July 28, 2024.
The statement revealed, ‘The family of Derek Keith Barbosa, professionally known as Chino XL, is devastated to relay the news of his passing. Chino died on the morning of Sunday, July 28, 2024, at home. He was 50.’
Chino XL is survived by his children, Chynna, Bella, Lyric, and Kiyana; his stepson Shawn; grandchildren Emmy, Emery, Chris, Luis, and Dyani; his mother, Carole; and his former longtime partner Stephanie. His daughters shared, ‘Our father had many titles — King of Punchlines, Puerto Rican Superhero — but the most important one was Girl Dad.’ They expressed their peace knowing their dad is at peace.
The family has requested privacy, and details of a memorial will follow. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Tributes from the Hip Hop community poured in swiftly. Chuck D, Joe Budden, ScHoolboy Q, and many others shared their condolences.
Chuck D paid homage on X, formerly Twitter, recalling how Chino XL supported his events and exchanged art books with him. ‘He encouraged my graphics forward. We exchanged art books. He looked out to protect my lyric books better. He supported my events. We supported his music.’
Joe Budden simply added, ‘Damn… RIP to the legend Chino XL,’ while ScHoolboy Q posted, ‘Rip Chino XL.’
Frequent collaborator KXNG Crooked expressed his grief, writing, ‘We spoke on the phone the other day and laughed. Our careers have been tied together since the Wake Up Show freestyles decades ago. I’m messed up. Rest in Peace, my brother Chino XL.’
On Instagram, Bun B shared a touching tribute, ‘This is @chinoxl he was my brother. He was a man of the people. He was strong and proud. He was one of the greatest to ever write rhymes. Intimidation on two feet. But a heart of pure gold. I loved my brother and I will miss my brother.’
Other tributes came from Evidence, Skyzoo, R.A. the Rugged Man, Termanology, and Dante Ross. Chino XL is most famous for his 1996 debut album Here to Save You All, which received critical acclaim and sparked his legendary feud with 2Pac. The New Jersey native was known for his battle rapping and later ventured into acting, starring in CSI: Miami and The Young & The Restless.
He recently appeared on Rakim’s new album The God’s Network: Reb7rth, calling their collaboration an ‘honor’ in one of his final Instagram posts.
The Hip Hop world is united in mourning the loss of Chino XL, a lyrical genius and an influential figure. His legacy will undoubtedly continue through his music and the countless lives he touched.
