Prodigy of Legendary Mobb Deep Passes Away at 42

Prodigy, one-half of the classic Hip-Hop duo Mobb Deep, has passed away.

According to published reports, on Tuesday (Jun 20) Prodigy, real name Albert Johnson, was found unresponsive and was pronounced dead. In a statement sent to XXL, the rapper’s publicist revealed that Prodigy was hospitalized earlier this week after a show in Las Vegas.

“It is with extreme sadness and disbelief that we confirm the death of our dear friend Albert Johnson, better known to millions of fans as Prodigy of legendary NY rap duo Mobb Deep. Prodigy was hospitalized a few days ago in Vegas after a Mobb Deep performance for complications caused by a sickle cell anemia crisis. As most of his fans know, Prodigy battled the disease since birth. The exact causes of death have yet to be determined. We would like to thank everyone for respecting the family’s privacy at this time.”

Prodigy formed Mobb Deep with Havoc in the early ’90s, releasing their debut album, Juvenile Hell, in 1993. Their 1995 sophomore album, The Infamous, is labeled as one of the most classic and influential albums in Hip-Hop birthing the hit records “Survival of the Fittest”, “Temperature’s Rising”, and “Shook Ones.”

He will definitely be missed. Our condolences to the the Johnson family.

Check out some of Mobb Deep’s greatest hits.