Gene ‘Groove’ Allen, rapper and ‘What’s Love Got To Do With It?’ star, dies at 62

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Rapper and 'What's Love Got To Do With It?' star Gene Allen has died at the age of 62.

The celebrity, whose middle name was "Groove", suddenly died at home on Wednesday, February 12, his family confirmed to TMZ.

Allen was also a part of 'House Party' in the 1990s. According to TMZ, his death came as a "complete shock" to his family, although they do not believe foul play was involved.

Inside Gene 'Groove' Allen's career in films and music

Family members informed TMZ of the tragic news, stating that Long Island, New York, native Gene Allen was 62 years old. However, an IMdB bio indicates Allen was 60, per Deadline.

Among the films in which Allen starred were the 1990 comedy 'House Party' and its follow-up 'House Party 2' in 1991, the Tina Turner film 'What's Love Got to Do With It?' featuring Angelina Bassett, among others.

Moreover, he co-starred with Eddie Murphy, Robin Givens, and Halle Berry as a street photographer in the 1992 film 'Boomerang'. Following his stint in films, Allen also gave voiceovers and did radio assignments.

Allen, also known as Eugene Allen, was a member of the 1980s hip-hop trio Groove B. Chill, which included Darryl "Chill" Mitchell, per Daily Mail.

He began his career in the Bronx and was referred to as a "hip hop pioneer". Earlier this year, Allen began teasing an EP titled 'Bring Back the Party'.

Furthermore, Allen promoted a performance on Instagram on February 15 using the hashtag, "2025 coming in hot".

As the president and CEO of Groove E Productions, Allen dedicated his last few years to community service and fundraising for military families.

Among other initiatives, the company organized a House Party Immersive tour that was described as having a "90s vibe with a new jack swing feel".

He last posted a video on Instagram four days ago with the caption, "2025!!! I ain' playin", while he was singing into a microphone at a party.

Friends and fans pay heartfelt tributes to Gene 'Groove' Allen

Fans posted condolence messages on social media after learning of Gene 'Groove' Allen's sudden death.

One X (formerly Twitter) user wrote, "Just heard the very sad news that actor Gene Allen has passed away suddenly at the age of 63."

"I'll never forget the hilarious scene in House Party where he got absolutely smashed and keeled over during the dance off. May he sleep peacefully," they added.

A second fan said, "Just learned a friend of past daze has transitioned to be with the Ancestors. RIPeace Gene “Groove” Allen of the original Uptown Crew “Groove B Chill.” You will be missed my brother. My condolences to Gene’s family and friends."

"R.I.P. Gene Allen aka “I’m Getting those digits” Groove," said one user.

"Another legend gone too soon. Rest easy, Gene," mourned another.

One friend of the late artist said, "RIP Gene “GROOVE” Allen! You remember him from House Party, I remember him as a friend. #ValentinesDay #geneallen #HouseParty."

Paying tribute on Instagram, friend Eric B wrote, "Got a call from my brother chill that his brother groove passed away Dam rest in peace brother groove we will continue to celebrate your life let the house party continue on thanks for the great music and movie moments."

DJ Premier wrote, "My condolences. Loved their music on Uptown and his character in House Party as the drunk."

Others flocked to the comment section to pay their tributes, as one said, "I'm getting those Digits rest in peace."

"We're Groove B. Chill! And we're sittin' here on top of the hill... And noowww," commented another.

A user remarked, "Oh no this is very sad he was the best I got to see both of them perform together in Atlantic City, RIP Groove."

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