"Chino XL and DJ Polo: Hip Hop Legends Remembered After Sudden Deaths"

Chino XLPhoto byInstagram

The hip hop community was dealt a double blow with the recent deaths of two iconic figures: rapper Chino XL and DJ Polo. Their passing has left a void in the hearts of fans, friends, and family, reverberating through several generations of hip hop enthusiasts.

Chino XL

Chino XL, a veteran MC, passed away on Sunday at his home. He leaves behind his mother, four children, a stepson, four grandchildren, and his longtime partner, Stephanie. His daughters released a heartfelt statement: "Our father had many titles -- King of Punchlines, Puerto Rican Superhero -- but the most important one was Girl Dad. And what he gave us most in that role was his strength, straightforwardness, and ability to be super realistic. The main thing we are feeling now is that our Dad is at peace, and so we are at peace.”

Social media was flooded with condolences and tributes from rappers, producers, and media personalities. Notable figures such as Chuck D, Joe Budden, KXNG Crooked, and ScHoolBoy Q, alongside battle rap and underground representatives, shared their memories of Chino.

Born in the Bronx, Chino got his start with Rick Rubin's American Recordings, releasing his debut album in 1996. He quickly gained a following on both the East and West Coasts with his multisyllabic wordplay. Chino solidified his legacy in California, co-starring with Eminem, RZA, and KRS-One on Sway & King Tech's '99 single "The Anthem" and engaging in a notable lyrical feud with Tupac Shakur. He was also a featured guest on Rakim's new album "G.O.D.s Network - Reb7rth," which dropped last weekend, contributing to the song "Pendulum Swing" with Crooked, Canibus, and La the Darkman.

The family has not yet released the cause of death but announced that plans for a memorial will be forthcoming. Chino XL was 50 years old.

DJ Polo

DJ PoloPhoto byInstagram

DJ Polo, best known for his work alongside Kool G Rap, passed away unexpectedly early Saturday morning (July 27). Hot 97 reported the news, though the cause of death has not been revealed. DJ Chuck Chillout was among the first to mourn Polo publicly, sharing a tribute on Instagram and Facebook with the caption: “This Hurt real Bad RIP To DJ POLO.”

Tributes from other hip hop legends soon followed. Ice-T and Eric B. paid their respects, with Eric B. writing: “My brother DJ POLO we had some great times you will never be forgotten GODS speed,” accompanied by a photo of the late DJ. Comments from E-40, DJ Green Lantern, DJ Scratch, DITC’s Buckwild, DJ Spinderella, and Pete Rock, who wrote: “Gotdamn man slow da f%#k down jesus christ lemme breathe,” filled the post. Fellow Juice Crew member Big Daddy Kane also shared his tribute: “Gone but not forgotten Cuz!!! JUICE CREW FOR LIFE!” Notably, Kool G Rap has not yet commented on his former partner’s passing.

DJ Polo first gained recognition alongside Kool G Rap in 1986 with the song “It’s a Demo,” showcasing his skills as a turntablist. The duo released four albums together: "Road to the Riches" (1989), "Wanted: Dead or Alive" (1990), "Live and Let Die" (1992), and "Rated XXX" (1996). They were also integral members of the Juice Crew. After parting ways with Kool G Rap, DJ Polo released a solo project titled "Polo’s Playhouse" in 1998.

DJ Polo is survived by his two children.