Outlawz rapper Young Noble has died at 47 years old. According to TMZ, Noble (real name Rufus Lee Cooper III) died on Friday (July 4) in Atlanta. The musician’s rep also confirmed his death to People.
Billboard has reached out to the Atlanta Police Department and medical examiner.
Noble became close with 2Pac and was the final member of the Outlawz recruited by the legendary Death Row rapper. Born in California and raised in New Jersey, Young Noble formed bonds with fellow Outlawz members Yaki Khadafi and Hussein Fatal.
Outlawz rapper E.D.I. Mean posted about Noble’s death on Instagram Friday.
“Today I got some of the worst and unexpected news imaginable. My brother and partner for over 30 years took his life this morning,” he wrote alongside a photo of the two together. “Rest in Power Rufus Young Noble Cooper.”
E.D.I. continued: “I obviously am in no shape to talk about this right now so PLEASE give his family and I some time to process this. Mental illness is a real battle being fought by so many. CHECK ON YOUR FOLKS!”
There was an outpouring of love from the hip-hop community, with Snoop Dogg, E-40, Xzibit, Krayzie Bone and Treach showing their support in the post’s comments.
“This is so sad to get this news Edi. Damn I’m speechless right now. My dude Noble,” DJ Premier wrote.
Noble moved back to California and reconnected with 2Pac around All Eyez On Me. He would also notch a handful of appearances on Pac’s posthumous The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory album, including delivering a standout verse on “Hail Mary” as well as guesting on “Bomb First (My Second Reply),” “Life of an Outlaw” and “Just Like Daddy.”
On the solo front, Young Noble’s Noble Justice debut album arrived in 2002. He also released Son of God (2012), Powerful (2016) and his final solo effort, 3rd Eye View, in 2019.
If you or anyone you know is experiencing mental distress, dial 988 or visit the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline’s website for free, confidential support 24/7.
