The hip-hop community just lost another great one. Legendary pioneer Lovebug Starski reportedly passed away in Las Vegas on Feb. 8, according to numerous sources. He was 57 at the time of his death.

Starski came up on the hip-hop scene in the 70s, as an MC in The Bronx. He later became a DJ at Disco Fever Club and released popular singles such as “Gangster Rock” and “Dancin’ Party People.”

Although he didn’t always get the proper recognition for his contributions to the genre, his name was often thrown around in the conversation with others pioneers such as Kool Herc, Grandmaster Flash, and Chuck D.

This MAN. #Thank YOU Rest In Beats Salute #Lovebug Starski pic.twitter.com/vB2QqoHkd5

— Chuck D (@MrChuckD) February 9, 2018

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