David Jude Jolicoeur, also known by the stage name Trugoy the Dove, has passed away at the age of 54.
The founding member of the iconic music group De La Soul allegedly died of natural causes after suffering from an undisclosed condition.
While the cause of death remains to be determined, the rapper previously opened up about his battle with congestive heart failure that greatly affected his music career.
Trugoy was best known for forming the hip-hop trio De La Soul alongside Kelvin Mercer and Vincent Mason back in 1988.
The three performers remained active in the music scene throughout the decades and went on to produce eight studio albums, four compilation albums, one live album, and three EPs.
The trio also won a Grammy for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals alongside English virtual band Gorillaz in 2006.
Since the tragic news, tributes to the dedicated musician began pouring in with devastated fans expressing their grief over the loss of “one of the greatest rappers of all times.”
“Rest in peace my brother. You were loved. @plugwondelasoul I love you brother we are here for you. Smiles I love you bro. This is crazy,” music producer and audio engineer Young Guru wrote.
“You don’t understand what De La Soul means to me. Their existence said to me, a black geek from Connecticut that yes, hip-hop belongs to you too, and Trugoy was the balance, McCartney to Pos Lennon, Keith to his Mick. This is a huge loss,” Cheo Hodari Coker added.
Rapper Erik Sermon expressed: “This one hurts. From Long Island from one of the best rap groups in Hiphop # Delasoul #plug2 Dave has passed away you will be missed… RIP.”
Our thoughts are with David’s family and friends during this challenging time.