SAD NEWS: Atlanta Mourns the Loss of Key Legend Player Found Dead in His Room Today…
“We are deeply saddened by the sudden and unexpected passing of our son, father, husband, and brother Rico Wade. Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of a talented individual who touched the lives of so many. We ask that you respect the legacy of our loved one and our privacy at this time.”
Rico Wade may not have been a household name, but his influence resonates through the beats and lyrics of some of Atlanta’s biggest hip-hop icons. As a member of the pioneering production group “Organized Noize,” alongside Ray Murray and Sleepy Brown, Wade played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Southern hip-hop in the early ’90s.
One of Wade’s most notable contributions was his work with Outkast and Goodie Mob, helping to craft their debut albums and setting them on the path to superstardom. But his influence extended far beyond working with groups. Wade was a founding member of the Dungeon Family, a musical collective that includes luminaries like Andre 3000, Killer Mike, Big Boi, CeeLo Green, and even his own cousin, Future.
In a past interview with 11Alive, Big Boi of Outkast spoke fondly of the early days and the pivotal role Wade played in their success.
“I think it was just all fate, you know. All from the Most High. For Rico Wade’s mom, Ms. Beatrice Wade to open up her home to all these young cats that have dreams and aspirations of being musicians and letting us camp out at her house and work non-stop. It’s how it was supposed to be,” Big Boi said. “First, we have to give thanks to her because without her we wouldn’t be none of that. And Rico, Wade, and Pat for believing in us – Outkast, Goodie Mob, Big Rube – like the whole crew. We were dreamers working towards one goal.”
Organized Noize’s impact on the music industry cannot be overstated. They produced hits like Outkast’s “So Fresh, So Clean” and TLC’s “Waterfalls,” among many others, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of hip-hop.