Rapper and Compton native, Coolio, has died at the age of 59, his manager confirmed with the Associated Press and TMZ.
According to TMZ’s report, Coolio’s friend found him lying on a bathroom floor before emergency crews arrived on the scene.
While an official cause of death have yet to be released, TMZ reports cardiac arrest may have played a factor in Coolio’s death.
Coolio, born Artis Leon Ivey Jr., became a household name after his hit single “Gangsta’s Paradise.” The song helped him capture a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance in 1996 and was a featured track in the movie, Dangerous Minds.
In movies, Coolio made appearances for Space Jam, Clueless, The Big Payback, Panther, New Jersey Drive, The Jerk Boys, Eddie and Half Baked. He was also credited with composing the theme song for Nickelodeon’s hit TV show, Keenan and Kel.
Coolio was also known for his love of cooking. On-air, he was the face of a reality show, Cooking with Coolio, and made appearances for Celebrity Cook Off and Celebrity Chopped.
According to the rapper’s website, Coolio sold over 17 million records worldwide. In the community, he served as a spokesperson for the Asthma and Allergies Foundation, according to the rapper’s website.