Malik Abdul Basit, the rapper, singer and founding member of The Roots, passed away according to a statement posted on the group’s Twitter account. He was 47.
What We Know:
- The Philadelphia rapper’s death was first confirmed by his cousin, former CBS News correspondent Don Champion, and founding members Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson and Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter.
- “It is with heavy hearts and tearful eyes that we regretfully inform you of the passing of our beloved brother and long time Roots member Malik Abdul Basit,” Questlove and Black Thought said in a statement to The Post. “May he be remembered for his devotion to Islam, His loving brotherhood and His innovation as one of the most gifted MCs of all time. We ask that you please respect his family and extended family in our time of mourning such a great loss.”
We regretfully inform you of the passing of our beloved brother and long time Roots member Malik Abdul Basit. May he be remembered for his devotion to Islam and innovation as one of the most gifted MCs of all time. We ask that you please respect his family in our time of mourning pic.twitter.com/NVHtb2CFWP
— The Roots (@theroots) July 29, 2020
- Basit, who performed under the name Malik B., was part of the Philadelphia-based group from its early beginnings to 1999, when he left the group. The apparent dipsute was detailed in ‘Water’ from The Roots album “Phrenology.” Written by Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter. The studio track speaks to Basit’s struggles and addiction.
- Basit went on to produce solo material Many years after his departure he appeared on several tracks on Roots albums.
The details of his death have not yet been revealed.
This is a breaking news story. This story will be updated.
