Who was Stepa J. Groggs?
Stepa J. Groggs, whose real name was Jordan Alexander Groggs, was an American rapper and a member of the Arizona hip-hop trio Injury Reserve. He was born on June 1, 1988, and died on June 29, 2020, at the age of 32. He is survived by his partner Anna Ford and his four children Joey, Jayden, Toph, and Ari
Groggs met fellow rapper Ritchie With a T at the Vans store where Groggs worked and which Ritchie’s mother owned. The pair eventually found a young producer, Parker Corey, whose approach to hip-hop production helped push the group toward their signature sound. The trio formalized themselves as Injury Reserve in 2013
Without much of a rap scene in their hometown, Injury Reserve developed and first attracted a local audience by performing alongside punk and indie acts at shows around the campus of Arizona State University. Injury Reserve released their first mixtape Live From the Dentist Office in 2015. They followed it a year later with another mixtape, 2016’s Floss. They released their self-titled studio debut in 2019
Injury Reserve was known for their experimental and eclectic style of hip-hop, blending jazz, punk, and electronic influences. They also tackled social and personal issues in their lyrics, such as racism, mental health, addiction, and grief. Some of their most popular songs include “Oh Shit!!!”, “All This Money”, “Jailbreak the Tesla”, and “Koruna & Lime”
How did Stepa J. Groggs die?
The cause of death of Stepa J. Groggs has not been officially announced by his family or his group. However, some sources have speculated that he may have suffered from health complications related to his weight and lifestyle
According to Genius, Groggs had struggled with alcoholism and obesity for most of his life. He also had a history of heart problems and high blood pressure. In 2018, he underwent gastric bypass surgery to lose weight and improve his health. He also quit drinking and smoking after the surgery
However, some fans have noticed that Groggs appeared to have gained weight again in his recent photos and videos. They also observed that he seemed tired and out of breath during some of his performances. Some have suggested that he may have relapsed into his old habits or experienced side effects from the surgery
How did the music world react to Stepa J. Groggs’ death?
The death of Stepa J. Groggs shocked and saddened many fans and fellow artists in the music industry. Many expressed their condolences and tributes on social media, praising his talent, personality, and legacy.
Some of the notable figures who paid homage to Groggs include Aminé, Denzel Curry, JPEGMAFIA, Open Mike Eagle, Vince Staples, Kero Kero Bonito, Slowthai, Rico Nasty, Thundercat, Flying Lotus, Earl Sweatshirt, Danny Brown, and Tyler, The Creator
Injury Reserve also shared a GoFundMe page to support Groggs’ family with funeral expenses and living costs. The page has raised over $150,000 as of July 2020. The group also released a statement on their website, saying:
REST IN POWER Jordan Alexander Groggs a loving father, life partner and friend. (6/1/1988-6/29/2020)
We love you Groggs Parker & Ritchie Injury Reserve 9
