Rico Wade, the legendary producer and founding member of Organized Noize, passed away on April 13. He was 52. His family released an official statement following his passing.
The family of the deceased appreciates the love but has requested privacy and respect during this time of mourning, as the cause of death remains unknown.
The Wade family statement reads:
“We are deeply saddened by the sudden and unexpected passing of our son, father, husband, and brother Rico Wade. Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of a talented individual who touched the lives of so many. We ask that you respect the legacy of our loved one and our privacy at this time.”
Future, Wade’s cousin, paid tribute to the legend on Sunday with a series of Instagram Stories. “This life wouldn’t be possible if it wasn’t for my cousin,” he captioned with a photo of Wade. “Love u forever.”
Rico Wade is a Southern Hip-Hop architect who created Outkast, Goodie Mob, and the Dungeon Family. As Organized Noize, Wade helped create several of the greatest songs ever with TLC’s “Waterfalls” and En Vogue’s “Don’t Let Go.” Organized Noize won Grammys with TLC, Killer Mike, and Outkast, including Record of the Year.
His wife, Debbie Wade, and his two sons survive Wade.