Hip-hop has lost one of its founding – and controversial – voices. Afrika Bambaataa, nicknamed the “godfather of hip-hop”, has died at the age of 67.
Born Lance Taylor, Bambaataa died at 3 a.m. on April 9 in Pennsylvania from cancer. TMZ reported. His death was confirmed by the Universal Zulu Nation, which he founded.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Afrika Bambaataa, pioneering architect and global ambassador of Hip Hop culture,” the group said. “Revered as the godfather of hip hop, Bambaataa was instrumental in organizing, shaping and elevating the culture from its beginnings in the Bronx into a global movement rooted in the principles of peace, unity, love and fun.”
The statement added: “Through his vision, leadership and unwavering commitment, he helped transform hip-hop into a powerful force for expression, community building and social change,” noting that his legacy “is forever anchored in the foundations of hip-hop history.”
Born in the Bronx in the 1970s, Bambaataa helped define the beginnings of hip-hop through DJing, breakbeats and its global spread through Zulu Nation.
At the heart of controversies over sexual abuse in Afrika Bambaataa
In subsequent years, Bambaataa’s legacy has come under scrutiny due to sexual abuse allegations.
The Hip Hop Alliance acknowledged this in its tribute, writing: “We recognize that his legacy is complex and has been the subject of serious conversations within our community. »
Several men have accused Bambaataa of sexual abuse, allegations he previously denied. “I, Afrika Bambaataa, wish to take this opportunity, on the advice of my legal advisor, to personally deny any allegation of any type of sexual assault on anyone,” he said. “These allegations are baseless and a cowardly attempt to tarnish my reputation and legacy in hip-hop at this time.”
Bambaataa also lost in a separate civil case in 2025, in which he was sued for alleged sexual abuse and child trafficking, according to The guardian.
