Gene “Groove” Allen was a rapper and actor best known for his work in the hip-hop trio Groove B. Chill and for his roles in movies like “House Party” and “House Party 2.”
- Died: February 12, 2025 (Who else died on February 12?)
- Details of death: Died in Maryland at the age of 60.
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Gene “Groove” Allen’s legacy
The hip-hop music scene looked much different when Allen got his start in the 1980s. Born in Long Island, New York, he counted himself among The Uptown Crew after joining with Daryl “Chill” Mitchell and Belal “DJ Belal” Miller to create the party-focused, vividly colorful rap trio Groove B. Chill.
Though Allen and the group didn’t have the mainstream breakthrough of peers like Kid ‘n Play and Heavy D and The Boyz – they released just one album, 1990’s “Starting From Zero” – Groove B. Chill were a part of a scene that showcased good times, dancing, and parties. Allen appeared in two films of the era focused on those very things: “House Party” (1990) and “House Party 2” (1991), both led by Kid ‘n Play.
His other acting work included roles in “Boomerang” and “What’s Love Got to Do with It.”
Though Allen continued to work in music over the years, his primary focus became giving back to the community. He created Groove E. Productions and the House Party Immersive Tour, which performs for veterans and their kin. The benefit shows raise money to support military families, as well as a women’s shelter, events that include a tour, and more.
Allen had been promoting his upcoming EP, “Bring the Party Back,” at the time of his death.
Tributes to Gene “Groove” Allen
Full obituary: Deadline
