Atlanta rap legend, Dungeon Family member Rico Wade dies at 52

Rico Wade, a member of the Dungeon Family and part of the legendary Atlanta rap production group Organized Noize has died. He was 52.

Wade’s family confirmed his death in a statement on Saturday afternoon.

“We are deeply saddened by the sudden and unexpected passing of our son, father, husband, and brother Rico Wade. Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of a talented individual who touched the lives of so many. We ask that you respect the legacy of our loved one and our privacy at this time,” the family wrote.

Organized Noize and the Dungeon Family released a statement calling him “one of the most innovative architects in music.”

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens also shared a statement, saying Wade left an “indelible mark on music and culture around the world.”

Organized Noize started the Dungeon Family as a music collective for other Atlanta rap artists with funk and soul influences. Outkast and Goodie Mob were among the first members.

Atlanta rapper Killer Mike, a fellow member of the Dungeon Family, took to social media on Saturday to express his condolences.

“I don’t have the words to express my deep and profound sense of loss. I am praying for your wife and children. I am praying for the Wade family. I am praying for us all. I deeply appreciate your acceptance into the Dungeon Family, mentorship, friendship and brotherhood. Idk where I would be without y’all.”

More details surrounding Wade’s death have not been released.

Wade started Organized Noize in the early 1990s with Ray Murray and Sleepy Brown. The group created hits for Outkast, Goodie Mob, Ludacris, TLC and more.

The Dungeon Family got its name from “the Dungeon,” Rico Wade’s studio, which was located in the basement of his mom’s East Point home.