Chino XL, who once beefed with Tupac Shakur (1971–1996), was a New Jersey-based rapper and actor best known for his debut album, “Here to Save You All.”
- Died: July 28, 2024 (Who else died on July 28?)
- Details of death: Died at the age of 50.
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Chino XL’s legacy
Born Derek Keith Barbosa in Bronx, New York, the rapper who would come to be called Chino XL was raised in East Orange, New Jersey and got his start in music at an early age. He was just 16 when he signed to Rick Rubin’s American Recordings label as half of duo The Art of Origin with producer Kerri Chandler.
Chino XL’s solo debut, “Here to Save You All,” was released in 1996 to critical praise, with a focus on his wordplay and delivery. He was seen as an up-and-coming star and made waves for name-checking fellow rapper Tupac “2pac” Shakur, who in turn retaliated with “Hit ‘Em Up.” However, difficulties with several record labels led to Chino XL’s next few albums being delayed and receiving little promotion.
He released four solo LPs, his most recent 2012’s “Ricanstruction: The Black Rosary,” and two collaboration albums. Chino XL worked with artists like Rakim, Kool G Rap, Tech N9ne, Killah Priest, and others, and he was known for his confrontational diss tracks.
He was also an actor who had small TV roles in “Reno 911!,” “The Young and the Restless,” and the 2003 romantic comedy, “Alex & Emma.”
Tributes to Chino XL
Full obituary: Variety
