How Old Was XXXTentacion When He Died?

Early Life and Career of XXXTentacion

Jahseh Dwayne Ricardo Onfroy, better known by his stage name XXXTentacion, was born on January 23, 1998, in Plantation, Florida. He had a troubled upbringing and was in and out of juvenile detention centers throughout his childhood. Despite this, he began making music at a young age and released his first track on SoundCloud in 2013.

XXXTentacion’s music was a blend of multiple genres, including hip hop, punk rock, and R&B. He gained popularity in 2016 with the release of his track “Look At Me,” which went viral on social media. He signed a record deal with Empire Distribution and released his debut album, “17,” in 2017, which reached number two on the Billboard 200 chart.

XXXTentacion’s music often dealt with themes of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, which resonated with many of his fans. However, he also faced criticism for his violent lyrics and behavior. Despite the controversy, XXXTentacion continued to release music and was working on his second album, “Skins,” at the time of his death.

The Tragic Event That Led to His Death

On June 18, 2018, XXXTentacion was leaving a motorcycle dealership in Deerfield Beach, Florida, when he was shot and killed in what police described as a robbery gone wrong. He was just 20 years old at the time of his death.

The news of XXXTentacion’s death sent shockwaves through the music industry and his fans. Many took to social media to express their grief and pay tribute to the rapper. The suspect in XXXTentacion’s murder, Dedrick D. Williams, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, robbery, and firearm possession.

XXXTentacion’s death sparked discussions about gun violence and the importance of mental health awareness. His fans and fellow musicians continue to mourn his passing and remember his impact on the music industry.

Reaction to His Death from Fans and the Music Industry

The news of XXXTentacion’s death was met with an outpouring of grief from his fans and the music industry. Many artists and celebrities, including Kanye West, J. Cole, and Travis Scott, paid tribute to the late rapper on social media.

However, some criticized the praise given to XXXTentacion in light of his past behavior. The rapper had been charged with multiple counts of domestic violence and was awaiting trial at the time of his death. Some argued that his music should not be celebrated due to his violent past.

Despite the controversy, XXXTentacion’s music continued to resonate with his fans, and his album “Skins” was released posthumously in December 2018. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, making XXXTentacion the first artist to posthumously top the chart since The Notorious B.I.G. in 1997.

Legacy and Influence of XXXTentacion in Hip Hop Culture

Despite the controversy surrounding his life, XXXTentacion’s impact on hip hop culture cannot be denied. His music was known for its emotional depth and vulnerability, and many fans found solace in his lyrics. He was a pioneer in the “SoundCloud rap” movement and paved the way for many young artists.

XXXTentacion’s legacy can be seen in the continued success of artists like Lil Uzi Vert, Juice WRLD, and Trippie Redd, who were all influenced by his music. He was also known for his charitable work and activism, and his fans continue to carry on his legacy through the XXXTentacion Foundation, which provides support for young people facing mental health challenges.

While his life was cut tragically short, XXXTentacion’s impact on music and culture will continue to be felt for years to come.

Controversies Surrounding His Life and Legacy

XXXTentacion’s life was marked by numerous controversies, including allegations of domestic violence and assault. In 2016, he was arrested and charged with aggravated battery of a pregnant woman, domestic battery by strangulation, false imprisonment, and witness tampering. He denied the allegations and was awaiting trial at the time of his death.

The accusations against XXXTentacion sparked heated debates about separating art from the artist and whether his music should be celebrated given his violent past. Some argued that his music provided an outlet for young people struggling with mental health challenges and that his art should be separated from his personal life.

However, others believed that XXXTentacion’s behavior should not be excused, and that his music should not be celebrated given the serious allegations against him. The controversy surrounding his legacy continues to be a topic of discussion in the music industry and among his fans.