Steve Gaines, better known as Zumbi from Zion I, suddenly passed away on August 13 in Berkeley, California, at the age of 49. The initial news shocked those of us who learned about it through social media, with follow-up reports about his death only making the matter more baffling. Those reports claimed that he was involved in a physical altercation while battling COVID-19 at a Berkeley hospital, which is hard to believe if you’re familiar with his music. Exactly what took place at the hospital hasn’t been revealed to the public. (Zumbi’s family has since launched their own investigation into his death.) But what his fans and peers do know is that he’ll be eternally remembered for his wisdom, love for others, and tireless work ethic.

I was 12-years-old when I first learned about Zion I through a large poster featuring the group’s Mind Over Matter album art posted on the outside of the Rasputin music store in Berkeley. While I was quickly becoming a fan of Mac Dre, Frontline, and Mistah F.A.B., I had yet to hear about Zion I. Upon seeing the poster, I went into Rasputin, found a used copy of the album and took it to a listening station, where I listened to it in its entirety and immediately became a fan of Zumbi’s style.

His lyrics were focused on day-to-day living and simple, relatable wants: maintaining in “The Town” — Oakland, where he was from — and becoming a better man and musician. He was also able to come across as self-assured and cocky without relying on threats of violence, maintaining the confidence integral to so many MCs but expressing it in a refreshing way.

A week prior to his passing, Zumbi had announced that him and fellow Zion I member and producer Amp Live would be touring to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Mind Over Matter. I told myself I was going to that show even if I went alone. Unfortunately, that show never came to be. But myself and the rest of Zumbi’s fans will always have his music to remember him by. In honor of Zumbi and his legacy as a Bay Area hip-hop legend, here is an unranked list of the 10 best Zion I songs that capture his brilliance.

SEE THE LIST AT OKAYPLAYER