As this year progresses, we pause to remember the extraordinary individuals who left us in 2025 — those whose lives touched and inspired us through their creativity, courage, and groundbreaking accomplishments.
From celebrated performers and masterful storytellers to bold advocates and trailblazing visionaries, each person made a lasting impact on the world and the communities they served. Their contributions enriched culture, ignited change, and brought happiness to countless lives.
This tribute is dedicated to cherishing their memories, celebrating their legacies, and perpetuating the wisdom and inspiration they left behind. Though their presence is missed, the waves of their influence will continue to ripple through this generation and beyond.
DJ Unk
Atlanta artist DJ Unk, born Anthony Platt, who gave us hits like “Walk It Out” and “2 Step,” passed away on January 24 at the age of 43.
Irv Gotti
Music producer, record executive, and founder of Murder Inc. Records, Irv Gotti, died on February 5. He was 54 years old.
Voletta Wallace
Voletta Wallace, mother to Hip-Hop icon The Notorious B.I.G., departed on February 21, as reported by the Monroe County Coroner’s Office in Pennsylvania. She was 72 years old.
Angie Stone
Angie Stone, beloved R&B and soul artist who gained fame in the 1980s as part of the group Sequence, passed away on March 1 in a Sprinter van accident. She was 63.
D’Angelo
Neo-soul pioneer D’Angelo lost his battle with pancreatic cancer on October 14 at the age of 51.
Young Scooter
Young Scooter tragically passed away on his 39th birthday in March. The Atlanta-born rapper lost his life after suffering a fatal injury to his leg while attempting to flee from the police by climbing a fence.
G$ Lil Ronnie
Texas rapper G$ Lil Ronnie, 35, was shot and killed along with his 5-year-old daughter at a car wash in Forest Hill, Texas on March 3.
Lotto Savage
Lotto Savage, an associate of 21 Savage, tragically lost his life in a shooting on March 19 in Decatur, Georgia, at the age of 39. Born Diamon Clay, he was fatally shot at the Glenn Hollow Apartments.
Sayso P
Sayso P, 27, was shot and killed in a double shooting that also injured Sauce Walka in downtown Memphis on March 22.
Young Noble
Young Noble passed away due to a self-inflicted injury on the Fourth of July. His death was later confirmed by E.D.I Mean, a fellow member of the Outlawz.
Posta Boy
A prominent battle rapper and the first to be inducted into BET’s “106 & Park Freestyle Friday” Hall of Fame, passed away in late October 2025 at the age of 43. He had courageously faced a battle with cancer prior to his passing.
May they rest in peace and their legacy continue to be remembered!
