RIP Chris Lighty

It’s a sad day in Hip Hop, successful music industry executive and manager Chris Lighty has died. According to the NYPD, he was found in his Bronx apartment with a gunshot wound that appears to be self inflicted.

Hip-hop mogul Chris Lighty died Thursday morning. At the age of 44, a longtime manager of artists such as 50 Cent, Diddy, Ja Rule, Busta Rhymes, Missy Elliot and Mariah Carey — was found dead inside his South Riverdale apartment about 11:30 a.m., gun was recovered next to his body.

According to Daily News, law enforcement sources said Lighty — who divorced his wife, Veronica, last year — may have been dealing with financial struggles, including owing about $5 million to the IRS.

More below.

Hip Hop legend, Sway stated:

I remember meeting Chris in the ’90s with Hip Hop artist Mic Geronimo, Irv Gotti, Busta Rhymes, Tribe Called Quest and others when they would frequent the Wake Up Show with Tech and me. It was a joy watching him go from carrying bags for the legendary Jungle Brothers to becoming one of the most successful and powerful people in the music business. I’m fortunate I got the chance to hug him just 3 weeks ago when he came to MTV. He will be truly missed.

Musicians began Tweeting about Lighty soon after news of his death spread.

Fat Joe:

“R.I.P. Chris Lighty. That man saved my life.”

The Game:

R.I.P. to my old friend “Chris Lighty”. Tragedy has once again struck the music industry & this time it hit close to home. Chris was a good dude, honestly…. A father, husband, mogul & a great business man. May his soul rest & many condolensces to his immediate family & children. Love

Nick Cannon:

“I’m devastated right now. I can’t believe my big brother Chris Lighty is gone… He was a pioneer, a mentor, and a great friend RIP.”

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