Sadly, New Orleans bounce rapper Nicky Da B has passed away.
According to The Times-Picayune, the artist, most widely recognized for his contribution to Diplo's "Express Yourself," died on Tuesday, Sept. 2.
His manager, Rusty Lazer, said that Nicky, born Nickesse Toney, died "after a brief illness."
Fellow bounce artist Big Freedia took to social media to send condolences, as did Diplo.
I'm truly at a loss for words at the news that my friend + fellow Bounce artist @NickyDaB has passed away. #toomanyfunerals R.I.P NickyDaB
— Big Freedia (@bigfreedia) September 2, 2014
He was not only an important figure for New Orleans.. Bounce music.. He was a good friend and gave me one of my defining songs . — CATEGORY 6 PLURICANE (@diplo) September 2, 2014
He was an amazing writer and had one of a kind voice .. We working on an album for mad decent ....
— CATEGORY 6 PLURICANE (@diplo) September 2, 2014
Rest in peace @NickyDaB — CATEGORY 6 PLURICANE (@diplo) September 2, 2014
Nicky's management released this official statement on his death via Wondering Sound.
It is with heaviness in our hearts today that we confirm the passing of Nicky Da B. Nicky was a beautiful soul and we will always be grateful for his magnetic personality and loving spirit. We were inspired by his talent as much as his tireless optimism, compassion and humility. Our condolences go out to his family at this time.
Lazer took to Facebook to express his thoughts on the performer. He wrote, "There are no words to express the loss all of us who knew Nicky Da B are feeling right now. Thank you all for the kind messages and thoughts. Though his death is tragic he would love nothing more than to be remembered for having brought smiles and joy to people he worked with, performed for and called his friends. He was well loved and one of the brightest artists I've ever known. Keep his family in your thoughts as we make plans to honor his life and make sure his legacy is meaningful and fitting for a talent like his. Thank you all so much. I loved that kid, and the world is a little darker without him."
Nicky Da B was just 24 years old.
