2 Live Crew rapper Mark Ross, known to most as Brother Marquis, has died at age 58.
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Announced by the group on social media, alongside a throwback picture of the New York native, the caption reads. “Mark Ross AKA Brother Marquis of the 2 Live crew has passed away.”
The somber news was also confirmed by the group’s manager to TMZ, though no further details were shared, including an official cause of death, which has yet to be revealed at this time. Though as TMZ further reported, “sources with direct knowledge,” claim that “the death appears to be natural, and there isn't foul play suspected.”
2LC’s frontman, Uncle Luke, paid tribute to his former co-member on social media. “My condolence goes out to the family of Brother Marquis and so many of his fans from around the world after learning his passing,” the rapper wrote on X.
“We took on so many fights for the culture,” he continued, “made great music together something I would never forget. We had recently got back together to take on another fight to get back our catalog that was stolen from us. We will continue that fight in his name for his family. The Brother Marquis, that I know would want us to celebrate his life that’s exactly what I’m gonna do. R.I.P My Brother.”
Marquis was one of 2 Live Crew’s most notable members, alongside rappers Luke, Fresh Kid Ice, and Mr. Mixx. And while he wasn't a founding member of the iconic rap group, joining the Miami hip-hop group at the age of 19 in 1986, he helped cement it as the iconic act they are today, with their debut album, “The 2 Live Crew Is What We Are,” released that same year.
To celebrate his life and contribution to the culture, his fans and famous friends have taken to social media to mourn his death. Take a look at some tribute of the messages below.