Rich Homie Quan, the influential Atlanta rapper best known for his hit singles “Type of Way” and “Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh),” has tragically passed away at the age of 33. The Fulton County Medical Examiner confirmed his death, which occurred at an Atlanta hospital. The cause of death has not yet been determined, with an autopsy scheduled for Friday.
Quan, whose real name was Dequantes Devontay Lamar, rose to prominence in the mid-2010s with a series of successful mixtapes and memorable tracks. His breakthrough came in 2013 with the infectious hit “Type of Way,” which was so popular that it inspired remixes by artists like Jeezy and Meek Mill. He continued his success with notable appearances on YG’s tracks and the hit “Lifestyle,” part of the Rich Gang collective alongside Young Thug and Birdman.
His follow-up single “Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh)” was a major hit, peaking at No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100. Quan also featured on Lil Dicky’s viral hit “$ave Dat Money.”
In 2018, Quan released his debut and only studio album, “Rich as in Spirit,” which included a collaboration with Rick Ross on the single “Think About It.”
The music community has been quick to honor Quan’s legacy. Artists such as Quavo, Lil Boosie, and Playboi Carti have paid tribute on social media. Jacquees expressed his grief, calling Quan a “legend” and saying, “Rest in Peace my brother Rich Homie Quan. I love you for Life.”
In a 2022 interview with The Associated Press, Quan discussed his plans to return to music following a hiatus caused by legal issues with his former label, T.I.G. (Think It’s a Game Record). At that time, he was also involved in a public feud with Young Thug, who was facing legal troubles related to a RICO Act indictment. Quan expressed sympathy for Young Thug, criticizing how rappers were being targeted by law enforcement and emphasizing a more cautious approach to his own music.
“I think we’re showing too much, you know what I mean,” Quan reflected. “It’s still Black art, but we’re definitely being targeted. So that’s why I’m mindful of what I say in my music.”
Rich Homie Quan’s death is a significant loss to the hip-hop community, and his contributions to music will be remembered by fans and peers alike.⬤