Rapper OG Maco, who rose in popularity for his 2014 single “U Guessed It,” has died at age 32 after being hospitalized more than a week ago.
His manager PoppaPerc told The Atlanta-Journal-Constitution that the rapper died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The family announced the news of his death Friday afternoon in a joint statement posted on social media.
“His life was a testament to resilience, creativity and boundless love,” his family wrote. “Through his music, passion and unwavering spirit, he touched so many lives and left a lasting impact.”
On. Dec. 16, OG Maco’s family posted that the College Park rapper was in critical condition following a suicide attempt. TMZ was the first to break the news reporting that he had died in a Los Angeles hospital.
The artist has experienced several health issues throughout the years. In 2016, he suffered a near-fatal car crash, resulting in multiple skull fractures and an injury to his right eye. In 2019, he revealed being diagnosed with a skin-eating disease known as necrotizing fasciitis, which disfigured his facial skin. He later shared that he was depressed as a result of the disease.
“I’ve been scared a lot,” he told fans in a video posted on his Instagram at the time. “I didn’t know what was going to happen. I didn’t know if I was going to lose my entire face. I almost did.”
Born Benedict Chiajulam Ihesiba Jr, OG Maco was dominant player in Atlanta’s rap scene during the early 2010s. His debut single “U Guessed It,” entered the Billboard Hot 100 and boasted a remix featuring 2 Chainz. OG Maco later signed to Atlanta-based label Quality Control. In 2015, he was featured as XXL’s Freshman Class, along with fellow Atlanta artists Raury and K. Camp
He founded the OGG rap collective, which included megaproducer OG Parker.
On Friday, OG Parker posted a tribute to the artist on his Instagram story, stating “Love you 4L brother.”
Steve “Steve-O” Dingle, OG Maco’s former manager, also posted a tribute on Friday.
“Passing 10 years, almost exactly since we met, that’s crazy .... what you’ve done in your life and your career have been really nothing short of amazing, bro,” the music industry veteran said in a video posted on X. “You’re a legend. Nobody can take away from what you’ve did to this game and the city of Atlanta and in this life.”
Credit: AP Photo
Credit: AP Photo
In a statement to the AJC, PoppaPerc said, “We’re going to give the fans something dope here soon and it’s going to really impact his legacy in a good way.”
This is a breaking story. Return to ajc.com for updates.
This story includes discussion of health crises. If you or someone you know needs help, call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
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