Rapper Coolio – famous for the billion-view hit “Gangsta’s Paradise” – passed away at the age of 59.

According to Fox News , on the afternoon of September 28, rapper – real name Artis Leon Ivey Jr. – visit a friend’s house. He went to the bathroom and sat there for a long time. Everyone had to break down the door and discovered Coolio lying unconscious in the bathtub. Police said they are investigating the incident and will announce the cause of death after completing an autopsy. World Star Hip Hop ‘s source said he died suddenly due to cardiac arrest.

Many friends, colleagues and fans expressed their condolences over the rapper’s sudden death. Oscar-winning DJ and director – Questlove – wrote: “Have a peaceful journey, brother!”. Host Omid posted on his personal page: “Coolio is a legendary rapper. I will always remember him as the composer of the film Kenan and Kel and the hit Gangsta’s Paradise . We will miss him very much. Rest in peace.” Please!”.

Coolio was born and raised in Los Angeles, and soon joined the hip hop movement in this city at a young age. At the age of 24, he released his debut single Whatcha Gonna Do? and was well received by the audience. The rapper then signed with Tommy Boy Records and released his debut album It Takes a Thief in 1994.

In 1995, Coolio released the song Gangsta’s Paradise with singer LV for the movie Dangerous Minds . The composition became one of the most successful rap releases of all time. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for three consecutive weeks and led sales in many major markets such as the US, UK, France, Germany… during the year. The song also helped Coolio win a Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance in 1996.
Besides singing, Coolio is also famous for his passion for acting. He appeared in many film and television projects such as Batman & Robin, China Strike Force, Get Over It, Daredevil … Coolio has six children. He married book author Josefa Salinas in 1996 but divorced in 2000.