Bronx, NY based rap artist, Fred The Godson passed Thursday from complications with COVID-19. A spokesman for the 35-year old artist confirmed his death via several reports.
He is the first in the hip hop world to pass from the pandemic although many have been infected in the community.
Damn, RIP my man Fred The Godson. Since like 2001 it was always great vibes and bar fests when we were around one another. Lyrical swordsman of the highest order for the city. Smh. 🙏🏽🙏🏽 #FredTheGodson
— Skyzoo (@skyzoo) April 23, 2020
The last news delivered about the rapper was that he lost his fever. This improvement, which was a huge for his chances of recovery. As a result, he and his family were hopeful as he was still in intensive care. However, the fever peaked at 105 degrees. In addition, Fred had a pre-existing condition: asthma; which made him at higher risk for the virus.
The artist also known as “Gordo” was very transparent online using the breathing treatment machine to treat asthma. Unfortunately, as a result of the disease Fred’s kidney’s hadn’t been functioning properly. His death was confirmed today.
Wow . Fred the Godson … OMG man
— Wale (@Wale) April 23, 2020
Hip Hop And COVID-19
Many influential entertainers have been diagnosed with the coronavirus. Houston based MC’s Slim Thug and Scarface had the virus with the former having a very bad experience with it.
The Geto Boys member began talking to group member Willie D about his experience.
“This whole three weeks has been an ordeal. It’s the craziest sh** I’ve ever done and seen in my life,” Scarface said. “I’ve been to the point where I just felt like I was going to die.”
During the interview, he remembered throwing up to the point where there was nothing coming up but bile. He also wasn’t able to breathe.
Currently, all eyes are on black america and the way the virus is disproportionately affecting the community. Fred The Godson’s death highlight’s that point and comes at a time when increased awareness from the black entertainment world is rising.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp on Monday gave businesses across the State permission to open later this week.This announcement echoes that of other Republican Governors. However, with crown jewel cities like Atlanta full of hip hop influence, influencers like Jermaine Dupri and more are imploring people to stay home.
In cities like Chicago and states like Louisiana, the rate of infection in the black community are at an all time high. Reopening cities with heavy black populations is beginning to look intentional, however a culture with so much influence is pushing back positively.
Fred The Godson is hip hop’s first casualty. However, his death may add momentum to a spark from the culture to help the broader community.
