Atlanta-based rapper Rich Homie Quan, who rose to prominence with his single “Type of Way” in 2013, died at just 33. This was confirmed by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office. Rich Homie Quan, born Dequantes Devontay Lamar, was found unresponsive and taken to Grady Memorial Hospital last Thursday, where he was pronounced dead. His sudden death has plunged fans and fellow artists into mourning over the loss of one of the originators of modern trap music.
Rich Homie Quan
Rich Homie Quan wasn’t just another rapper but rather a game changer in the burgeoning trap music scene of Atlanta. The style he introduced was melodic and emotionally raw; it had not been heard from others thus far. His breakout single, “Type of Way,” reached the top of the charts back in 2013 and was that anthem that brought him into the limelight. It was one of those songs that resonated with fans from all over the country, which shaped the next generation of Southern rap.
Along with Young Thug and Birdman, Rich Homie Quan furthered trap music into new dimensions with the Rich Gang collaboration. The 2014 single “Lifestyle” went platinum, developing as one of the peaks in Quan’s career. The song was hailed for its inventive combination of melody and trap beats, and it launched the careers of both himself and Young Thug into mainstream musical circles.
Breakthrough Hits and Viral Fame
Rich Homie Quan didn’t let up after “Type of Way” and “Lifestyle.” In 2015, he let loose with another huge single: “Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh).” The track took hold immediately and saw huge success, peaking high on the charts and breaking Rich Homie Quan’s status into household-name territory. His subtle yet hyperactive flow mixed with his iconic video choreography proved to be a recipe for the viral sensation “Hit the Quan,” taking social media by storm, especially on Vine.
A Legacy of Collaborations
He has collaborated with some of hip-hop’s greatest throughout his career. He appeared on the remix for “Type of Way” alongside Meek Mill, which solidified his place in the game. 2Chainz, who only in January this year dropped the song “Ah’chi” with Quan, took to Instagram to share some words of condolence, explaining that the two had just talked about shooting a music video.
Despite the fame and success, Quan remained loyal to his roots. In an interview with Revolt this past summer, he discussed the legacy he’d like to leave. “Remember me as an original. As an artist who did it his way,” he said. “Remember me as a hard kid from Atlanta with a dream, who believed in himself and bettered himself—and won.”
A Devastating Loss for the Music Community
News of Rich Homie Quan’s death has left the music world shaken. Fans and colleagues alike have taken to social media to pay tribute, with Meek Mill posting a heartfelt message on Instagram: “RIP Rich Homie Quan.“. “Prayers to his family.” Rich Homie Quan was scheduled to appear on Nick Cannon’s Wild ‘N Out Live: The Final Lap Tour in Atlanta later this month, alongside rap stars Waka Flocka, Nardo Wick, and Boosie. His absence will no doubt be felt throughout the event and the industry.
Chart Success and Career Achievements
From the underground in the city all the way up to one of its successful mainstream acts, Rich Homie Quan has definitely made his mark on the rap game. Perhaps better than most known for the platinum single “Lifestyle,” other feats included on his roster are:
- BET Hip-Hop Award nominations for Best Club Banger (“Type of Way”) and Best Mixtape (“I Promise I Will Never Stop Going In”).
- Several projects that cemented his place in the hearts of rap fans, including “Rich as in Spirit” (2018), which debuted at No. 32 on the Billboard 200 and featured hits like “Changed” and “Bossman”.
Quan’s chart-topping success wasn’t limited to his own singles. He featured on tracks with heavyweights such as YG and Yo Gotti, continuing to expand his repertoire and artistic reach. His mixtapes, including “Still Going In” and “If You Ever Think I Will Stop Goin’ In Ask RR”, were critical in keeping his fans engaged and solidifying his spot as one of Atlanta’s finest.
The Future That Could Have Been
Rich Homie Quan was more than just an artist; he was the forerunner of this new wave in Atlanta rap that has since taken over mainstream music. He aspired to broaden his brand by mentioning future projects in both fashion and entertainment during interviews. At the time of his passing, it is said that he was working on new music and had alluded to dropping a follow-up to “Rich as in Spirit.” Sadly, that future was cut short.
Although details are not given about the cause of his death, indeed, his passing leaves a void in hip hop. Rich Homie Quan had an important role in the development of the genre with his melodic and emotionally honest way of rapping that no doubt moved the genre forward, inspiring younger generations of artists to follow in his footsteps.
Conclusion
It’s a shame to lose Rich Homie Quan, a 33-year-old Atlantan, but also a loss to hip-hop as a whole. This was one of those artists that brought something new to the table: he had no issues with being different, adding melody to his trap music, and changing the notion of what a Southern rapper would actually sound like. His hits like “Type of Way,” “Lifestyle,” and “Flex” will live on, and so will his influence on the rap scene. We remember him in such a way as to pay homage to such a talented artist who always remained true to himself, right to the very end. Rest in peace, Rich Homie Quan—you will be missed but never forgotten.