Grand Daddy I.U., a rap legend and a prominent member of the early rap label Cold Chillin’ Records, passed away on December 13, 2022, at the age of 54. His death shocked and saddened the hip-hop community, who paid tribute to his legacy and influence. But how did Grand Daddy I.U. die? What was his cause of death? Here is what we know so far.
A Peaceful Transition
According to rapper Pete Rock, a longtime friend and supporter of Grand Daddy I.U., the rap icon died peacefully in his sleep. Pete Rock shared this information on his Instagram account, along with a photo of Grand Daddy I.U. and a heartfelt message. He wrote:
“Rest easy my brother Grand Daddy I.U. You were one of the illest lyricists to ever touch the mic. Hip hop was in your DNA. You will be missed but never forgotten.”
This cause of death, however, has not been confirmed by Grand Daddy I.U.’s family or official sources. His business manager also posted on Instagram that he was praying for “a quiet and painless transition” for the rapper, but did not reveal any details about his health condition or the circumstances of his death.
A Rap Pioneer
Grand Daddy I.U., whose real name was Ayub Bey, was born in Queens, New York, and started rapping in the early 1980s. He was signed to Cold Chillin’ Records in 1989, along with other rap stars like Big Daddy Kane, Kool G Rap, Roxanne Shanté, and Biz Markie. Biz Markie played a significant role in Grand Daddy I.U.’s career, as he pushed his demo to the label and produced every song on his debut album, Smooth Assassin (1990).
The album featured two Billboard Rap Chart hits: “Something New” and “Sugar Free”, which showcased Grand Daddy I.U.’s smooth flow and witty wordplay. He also gained recognition for his ghostwriting and producing skills, working with artists like Das EFX, Heltah Skeltah, KRS-One, Ice-T, and more.
After releasing his second album, Lead Pipe (1994), Grand Daddy I.U. took a hiatus from rapping for almost a decade, but continued to make beats and guest appearances for other artists. He returned with his third album, Stick to the Script (2007), which featured collaborations with 2Pac, Marco Polo, and others. His last album was P.I.M.P. (Paper Is My Priority), released in 2015. His most recent musical release was the single “Trust Me”, featuring Paula Perry and Da Inphamus Amadeuz, which came out earlier this year.
A Lasting Legacy
Grand Daddy I.U.’s death sparked an outpouring of condolences and tributes from fans and fellow rappers, who praised him as one of the greatest lyricists and emcees of all time. Some of the notable names who honored him include LL Cool J, R.A. the Rugged Man, DJ Chuck Chillout, DJ Premier, Large Professor, MC Serch, and more.
Grand Daddy I.U.’s legacy lives on through his music and his impact on the hip-hop culture. He will be remembered as a rap pioneer who paved the way for many generations of artists to come. Rest in peace, Grand Daddy I.U.
