The hip-hop community is reeling from the loss of another icon as reports confirm the passing of Chino XL, also known as Derek Emmanuel Barbosa, at the age of 50. The heartbreaking news began circulating when Rap Booklets paid tribute to his debut album, “Here to Save You All.”
In a solemn post, Rap Booklets expressed, “We at Rap Booklets send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Chino XL, who passed away today at the age of 50.” AllHipHop later corroborated the news through an inside source. Despite disbelief from fans due to Chino XL’s relatively young age, fellow rapper and actor A-F-R-O confirmed the tragic news on his social media platform.
“RIP to CHINO XL… I’m gonna miss you, big bro 🕊 ,” A-F-R-O shared. The rap community has started pouring out tributes to the late emcee, with figures like Joe Budden and Page Kennedy expressing their sorrow.
Budden reflected, “Damn… RIP to the legend Chino XL 🙏 ,” while Kennedy shared heartfelt memories, “This one hurts. This been my dawg since 2001. Ima miss you big bro. Our
conversations about rap, about being girl dads, about the gym, and secrets. Ima miss you bro.”
Chino XL’s passing is particularly poignant as he was actively involved in new projects. In June, he disclosed his feature on Rakim’s album, “G.O.D.’S NETWORK – REB7RTH,” which was released on July 25, adding to the sorrow felt by the hip-hop community at his untimely departure.
Written by
Derek Chan
