Saafir was a Bay Area rapper and actor known for his innovative rhythms, collaborations with artists like Xzibit, and acting career, which included the film “Menace II Society.”
- Died: November 19, 2024 (Who else died on November 19?)
- Details of death: Died in Oakland, California at the age of 54.
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Saafir’s legacy
For a time in the early 1990s, Reggie Gibson, better known by his stage name, Saafir, was on the cusp of stardom. He performed on Digital Underground’s “The Body-Hat Syndrome,” appeared in the film “Menace II Society, and his debut record, 1994’s “Boxcar Sessions,” on Qwest Records – the label established and run by music master Quincy Jones (1933-2024) – won praise for its jazzy influences and creative flow.
While Saafir didn’t make the leap to superstardom, in part due to a series of health crises that limited his ability to perform, he did establish himself as a formidable and respected MC who sounded like no one else. He released three more full-length LPs after “Boxcar Sessions,” with 1998’s “Trigonometry” released under the name Mr. No No. Saafir’s 1999 album, “The Hit List,” features guest spots by artists like Jayo Felony and Chino XL (1974–2024), while 2006’s “Good Game: The Transition” told the story of his personal journey through medical issues and a conversion to Islam.
Saafir’s rough road began in 1992, when he was a passenger on TWA Flight 843, which crashed and caught fire right after takeoff. He suffered back injuries that would plague him the rest of his life, for a time leaving him in a wheelchair.
Despite the obstacles, he left his mark on the rap world. His 1994 on-air rap battle with East Bay collective Hieroglyphics, Saafir backed by his own Hobo Junction crew, became the stuff of legend, while “Boxcar Sessions” remains a respected work. He collaborated with Ras Kass and Xzibit to form the hip-hop group Golden State Project. He also developed an acting career, following up “Menace II Society” with appearances in “CIA: Miami,” “JC in tha Hood,” “Mercy for Angels,” and other TV shows.
His son, Saafir Gibson, now releases music under the name Lil’ Saafir.
Tributes to Saafir
Full obituary: KQED
