'King of Punchlines' rapper Chino XL dies at 50, daughters say 'our dad is at peace'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Rapper Chino XL died at the age of 50 on Sunday, July 28.

The Bronx-born artist’s family released a statement announcing his death. However, the rapper's cause of death is yet to be revealed.

Chino XL's family releases statement on his death

Born Derek Keith Barbosa, Chino XL had three children, Chynna, Bella, Lyric, and Kiyana; stepson Shawn, and five grandchildren. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, his mother and longtime partner Stephanie. 

“Our father had many titles — King of Punchlines, Puerto Rican Superhero — but the most important one was Girl Dad,” Chino XL’s daughters said in a joint statement.

“And what he gave us most in that role was his strength, straightforwardness, and ability to be super realistic. The main thing we are feeling now is that our Dad is at peace, and so we are at peace,” they added. 

"The family asks for privacy at this time. Details of a memorial will be forthcoming," their post read.

Chino XL's career highlights

Chino XL released his debut album 'Here to Save You All' in 1996 and followed it with 'I Told You So.'

He collaborated with Cypress Hill’s B-Real, Kool G Rap and J Dilla. He later got the rights to the album and re-released it independently. 

He went on to release hit albums in the next two decades. His prominent works include 'Poison Pen' (2006), 'Something Sacred,' a collaboration with Playalitical (2008), 'Ricanstruction: The Black Rosary' (2012), 'Chino vs. Balt' with Balthazar Getty (2020), and 'God’s Carpenter,' a collaboration with Stu Bangas (2023).

Chino's most recent public appearance was on Rakim’s latest project 'GOD’s Network (Reb7rth),' which came out on July 26. 

He was also featured on the track 'Pendulum Swing' featuring Kxng Crooked, Canibus and LA the Darkman, reports Stereogum.

Internet pays heartfelt tribute to Chino XL

Several fans talked about Tupac Shakur and Chino XL's relationship. Many cherished the hit songs of the rapper.

One user wrote on X, "Rest easy, young brother. Definitely one of the dopest underrated lyricists from our generation."

"Chino XL said the right thing in the wrong way once And he has been in eternal smoke o forever By Tupac and Tupac fans," a user shared.

Another wrote, "I remember he randomly did a pop up performance at my high school back in the day. We were surprised af. R.I.P. Chino XL"

"Reminds me of the late Mr Shakur in one particular track. So, this is the man that was addressed. May his soul rest in peace," another joined in.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.