TheAtlantarap scene, like the rest of the music world, is still mourningthe lossofRich Homie Quan.
In 2013, Quan began collaborating with fellow rising Atlanta starYoung Thug.
ThoughRich Gangwas never a formal group signed to a label,Rich Gang: Tha Tour Pt.
Rich Homie Quan in 2013.Prince Williams/FilmMagic
But as incredible as he was in Rich Gang, Quan also excelled on his own.
Thanks to him, anyone could feel like the man when they Walk Thru.
And anyone whos watched his interviews has noticed his jovial nature and star quality.
It all could have added up to a winning combination for solo superstardom.
Hes not alone in grieving.
Instead, pictures like these evoke memories of what could have been.
Young Thug and YFN Lucci are both facing uncertain jail stints.
Weve also lost Atlanta elders like Rico Wade who still had game and insight to offer.
Atlanta isnt losing its artistic mojo its losing its talents.
Atlantas solidarity has been one ofhip-hops most nationally understood facts of life for many years.
We remember the video of a hungry Lil Keedrapping for Young Thugbefore he was famous.
In time, the city has become a music factory, like a neo-Motown with lustrous diamonds.
It was the place to be for Black musicians, and it still is.
There are dire consequences looming over Atlantas cultural depletion.
The rap industry is changing exponentially.
And the bridge from one generation of Atlanta rappers to another needs to stay stable.
But with every city-shattering death like Quans, one more pillar is gone too soon.
