According to his former Golden State Project groupmate Xzibit, Reggie Gibson, known as Saafir, passed away at 8:45 A.M. on Tuesday, November 19 surrounded by his loved ones.
- November 20, 2024
AceShowbiz - Oakland rapper Saafir (Reggie Gibson) passed away on November 19, his former Golden State Project groupmate Xzibit confirmed. Saafir, known for his appearance in the 1993 film "Menace II Society", died at the age of 54.
According to Xzibit, Saafir died in his hometown of Oakland after a battle with health issues that included a cancerous tumor removed from his spine. Despite having his life saved by the surgery, it left him requiring the use of a wheelchair.
"I can't believe I'm writing this right now, but don't know what else to do at the moment," Xzibit wrote on Instagram along with a picture of his late friend. "Approximately at 8:45am this morning, my brother Reggie known to the world as Saafir passed away. We have so much history I can't even explain what I'm feeling right now. We surrounded him and let him know how much we loved him. He can rest now."
Xzibit continued, "Friends, Family, everyone that rocked with us from the Hip Hop community, if you could be so solid and reach out for @chopblack his younger brother, and @lilsaafir his son, the family really needs to be supported during this time. That's all I have right now. My soul is crushed. We love you Bro."
Saafir's career began in the early 1990s as a dancer for Digital Underground. He later gained recognition after a rap battle between his group Hobo Junction and Hieroglyphics. His performance earned him a record deal with Quincy Jones, and he released his debut album "Boxcar Sessions" in 1994.
Throughout his career, Saafir faced numerous health challenges that hindered his productivity. He was also a survivor of the TWA Flight 843 crash landing in 1992, which further impacted his health.
Xzibit expressed his grief on Instagram, stating, "We surrounded him and let him know how much we loved him. He can rest now." He urged the hip-hop community to support Saafir's family, including his younger brother and son.
Saafir's legacy includes his influence on West Coast hip-hop and his role in the classic film "Menace II Society." He leaves behind his son Lil Saafir and a brother.
