The hip-hop community is grieving the loss of Dallas Penn, a trailblazing journalist and former host of the Combat Jack show, who passed away on Wednesday, May 1st at the age of 55. Susan Penn, his wife, shared the news of his passing on his Facebook account. The cause of his death remains unknown at this time.
Fans, hip-hop artists, record labels, and industry figures flooded social media with tributes to the legendary figure as news of his death circulated. “RIP, “The Boot God Dallas Penn,” wrote Killer Mike on X. Thank you for the love and support you showed RTJ. You and Combat Jack and Pete supported us early. The Polo Heads have lost a Great one.”
Penn, a New York native, entered the game in 1984. He has since become known for his innovative contributions to fashion and music and his unique critiques. He gained fame by launching his blog and co-hosting The Combat Jack Show with Combat Jack.
Penn’s closest friends and collaborators Premium Pete and A-King shared several posts on social media remembering their beloved friend. Premium Pete tweeted, “Haven’t cried this hard in a while, truly lost for words. Dallas Penn Your Energy and Light will never ever leave us! I Love you Forever my Brother….,” while A-King shared, “Dallas been tryna get that tear from me for years lol…..well my nig you got allmof em today.”
Bun B paid his respects to the icon with a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. It reads:
“Hadn’t been back in the US an hour and I get this news. One of a kind in the greatest way. Followed the beat of his own drum and we loved him for it. You’ll be missed my friend. Give Jack our love. Long Live Dallas Penn. The innanets owe it all to you.”
Read more stories and memories about Dallas Penn, which you can read below.