Hip Hop Pioneer Afrika Bambaataa Dies at 67 Following Cancer Struggle

Known by his birth name, Lance Taylor, the founder of the Zulu Nation succumbed to cancer complications early in the morning, around 3 a.m. local time, according to reports from TMZ.

The Hip-Hop Alliance paid tribute to the legendary Planet Rock artist with a heartfelt statement on Instagram, declaring, “Today, we honor the transition of Afrika Bambaataa, a pioneering architect of Hip Hop culture.”

Led by Kurtis Blow, the group further expressed, “As the visionary behind the Universal Zulu Nation, Afrika Bambaataa was instrumental in shaping the nascent identity of Hip Hop into a worldwide movement anchored in peace, unity, love, and joy.”

The group, headed by Kurtis Blow, continued, ‘As the founder of the Universal Zulu Nation, Afrika Bambaataa helped shape the early identity of Hip Hop as a global movement rooted in peace, unity, love, and having fun.’

The group acknowledged legal issues the artist-producer encountered in his later years involving allegations of sexual misconduct against multiple young men.

‘At the same time, we recognize that his legacy is complex and has been the subject of serious conversations within our community,’ the group said. 

Influential musical artist Afrika Bambaataa died in Pennsylvania on Thursday at the age of 67 after battling cancer. Pictured in NYC in 1999

The Hip-Hop Alliance added, ‘As an organization committed to truth, accountability, and the preservation of Hip Hop culture, we believe it is important to hold space for all voices while continuing to uplift what empowers and protects the people.’

The group ended its statement in saying, ‘Today, we extend our condolences to all who were impacted by his life, his work, and his presence.

‘Hip Hop was built on truth, and through truth the culture continues to grow, heal, and evolve. Rest in Power Bam.’

In his earlier years, the New York City-born entertainer was a member of a gang called the Black Spades, the outlet reported.

Afrika Bambaataa stated throwing South Bronx block parties in the 1970s which eventually took shape as a key backdrop amid the rise of the musical genre.