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Rapper Malik B, a longtime member of The Roots, died at 47.
The band announced the news Wednesday in an Instagram post.
“With sadness and watery eyes, we unfortunately inform them of the death of our beloved brother and member of Roots, Malik Abdul Baset,” the group wrote.
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“May he be remembered for his devotion to Islam, his loving brotherhood, and his innovation as one of the most talented MCs of all time.”
The cause of death was not immediately announced.
Malik B, a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was added to The Roots in the 1990s, joining founding members Questlove and Black Thought.
During his tenure, The Roots released four albums: Organix, do you want more? !!! ??!, Illadelph Halflife and Things fall apart (which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album.)
Malik B left the band in 1999 to pursue a solo career.
Released the album Street assault in 2005, and an EP titled Psychological EP in 2006.
The album Unpredictable, the result of a collaboration with Mr Green, followed in 2015.
Malik B also appeared on The Roots albums Game theory (2006) and Rising up (2008)
Many on social media shared tributes to Malik B after the news of his death on Tuesday, highlighting the importance of his work and legacy.
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