DJ Polo, American producer and one-half of the 1980s hip-hop collective Kool G Rap & DJ Polo, has passed away.

His family confirmed the news on social media, writing: “It is with a heavy heart we mourn the loss of my father, the incredible DJ Polo. He was not only a legend to the hip hop community but also to his family and we celebrate his life and legacy now and forever.”

“We would like to thank you all for your beautiful words and tributes – seeing the impact he made has been overwhelming and we are so grateful.”

“We would like to also take the time to address the following: DJ Polo has more than 2 children, whatever is printed otherwise is false and has not been confirmed. Please reach out to a family member if you need to confirm information such as this.”

“Thank you all again for your condolences and for respecting the family’s privacy at this time. We miss you Cuzmo.”

No cause of death has been revealed.

DJ Polo, real name Thomas Pough, is best known for his long-standing collaboration with Queens rapper Kool G Rap. The pair released three albums (Road To The Riches, Wanted: Dead or Alive, and Live and Let Die) together in the late 80s and early 90s before splitting in 1993. Both Polo and Rap were also part of the legendary hip-hop collective, Juice Crew.

In 1998, DJ Polo released his debut solo album, Polo’s Playhouse, featuring Ice-T, Biz Markie, Roxanne Shanté and more.

Musicians from the hip-hop community have taken to social media to honour the late DJ. Fellow New York producer and DJ Eric B was among those leading the tributes, writing on Instagram, “My brother DJ Polo we had some great times you will never be forgotten GODS speed.”

DJ Chuck Chillout also paid tribute to Polo in an Instagram post, writing: “This Hurt real Bad RIP To DJ Polo.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Eric B – Hip Hop Legend (@therealdjericb)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by DJ CHUCKCHILLOUT (@djchuckchillout)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by DJ Polo (@officialdjpolo)

The post Hip-hop community mourns the passing of DJ Polo appeared first on MusicTech.