Update 05/24/2021 11:11pm:
According to TMZ, iconic hip-hop photographer Chi Modu reportedly passed away from cancer. The outlet says Chi's family confirmed the news and noted that he'd been recently diagnosed. However, TMZ did not confirm what type of cancer Chi was diagnosed with, specifically. The family also confirmed that a memorial service for the legendary photog is already scheduled and details will be released soon.
Original 05/23/2021 11:49am:
Legendary photographer and documentarian of hip hop culture—Chi Modu passed away at the age of 54, according to reports. The photographer’s journey found him capturing many iconic images in the hip hop world that are used as inspiration internationally and even showcased in museums.
Chi Modu’s lens focused on artists like 2 Pac, Mobb Deep, Wu-Tang Clan, Nas, The Notorious BIG, Q-Tip, Eazy-E, Mary J. Blige, and more. The photographer’s beginnings found him starting at The Source magazine, where he was able to snap many of the heralded hip hop legends in their early stages.
One of the photographer’s most iconic images was the cover of Mobb Deep’s 1995 album ‘The Infamous.’ The cover is widely praised just as much as the music, with many fans and critics noting the cover’s unique-yet-accurate reflection of the duo’s dark and bouncy Queensbridge tales.
Via an Instagram post, the family of Chi Modu addressed the photographer’s passing, saying, “Our hearts are broken... We continue the fight ©💪🏾 The family request privacy at this time 📷." Condolences to the family of Chi Modu.
