John "Ecstasy" Fletcher from the pioneering rap group Whodini has reportedly passed away at the age of 56.
Ecstasy formed Whodini with Jalil Hutchins in 1982, before DJ Grandmaster Dee joined the group in 1986. The group recorded classic hits, such as "Friends," "Freaks Come Out at Night," and "The Haunted House of Rock." The group was most recently honored, in 2018, at the third annual Black Music Honors where they received the Hip Hop Icon Award.
Jermaine Dupri, who started his career as a dancer for the group, offered his condolences after the news broke.
"My God, this one hurts me so bad, I can't even believe I'm posting this," he wrote. "Ex, you know I love you. Thank you for every word, every conversation, every good time. May your soul rest in power."
While the cause of death has not been confirmed, dozens of Ecstasy's Hip Hop peers have penned their reactions to the loss and highlighted Whodini's legacy.
"#RIPecstasy My full heart goes out to the family and friends of the legendary Ecstasy from the landmark hip hop group #Whodini," wrote Speech from Arrested Development. "They were the first to make adult hop hop, with melodic music, huge soundscapes and sex appeal for the ladies. This man will be SORELY MISSED!"
Look above to view more reactions to John "Ecstasy" Fletcher's passing.
