New York rapper Kaseem Ryan, better known as Ka, is dead, reports several media outlets.
According to a post on the rapper's Instagram, he unexpectedly passed away on Saturday at the age of 52.
Ka's rap career began in the underground group Natural Elements in the 90s. After that, he released about ten solo albums on his own and has been praised for his technique and lyrics. Among his admirers are stars like Erykah Badu, Mos Def, and GZA.
Besides music, Ka worked as a firefighter. According to the Instagram post, he participated in the rescue efforts after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, among other things.
"Ka lived his life in service – for his city, for his community, and for his music", it says in the post.
