The Atlanta rap scene lost a bright light when Rich Homie Quan died on Thursday. The artist's father confirmed the news to NPR and the local medical examiner told the Associated Press of his passing. He was 34.
Rich Homie Quan rose to prominence in the early 2010s with songs like solo tracks "Type of Way" and "Flex (Ooh, Ooh, Ooh)" and "Lifestyle," which he performed as one half of the duo Rich Gang with Young Thug.
The MC, born Dequantes Devontay Lamar, helped shape the current sound of rap music which weaves in braggadocious bars with infectious melodies. Upon hearing the news of his death, journalist Anthony Valadez reflected on Rich Homie Quan's legacy, how gospel music influenced his art and how he played baseball growing up.
Even though his dream of becoming a professional baseball player never materialized, Rich Homie Quan remained involved in the sports world as he journeyed through his music career. He was a fan of local Atlanta teams, participated in events with Ole Miss football and was along for the ride as Michigan State won the 2014 Rose Bowl.
Here's how the sports world paid tribute to Rich Homie Quan:
Atlanta Teams remember Rich Homie Quan
The Atlanta Hawks honored Rich Homie Quan with a post on social media featuring an image of him in the team's jersey.
"Rest in power, Rich Homie Quan," the team said. "A beloved member of our community and a powerful presence in Atlanta’s music world."
The Atlanta United also shared their memories with Rich Homie Quan, saying he was one of the first people to participate in one of the team's pregame rituals, hitting the Golden Spike.
Other Sports Figures and Teams pay tribute to Rich Homie Quan
NFL Hall of Famer and current Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders paid his respects to Rich Homie Quan, saying he just spoke with the rapper recently and that he would be praying for his family.
"Lord that news regarding @RichHomieQuan Hurt," Coach Prime said. "I just spoke to my brother a couple of weeks ago. He introduced me to his son that was playing youth football. They were gonna come to a game. Will someone from the family please reach my son @DeionSandersJr. We’re praying for y’all."
The Detroit Lions had one of the most clever tributes to Rich Homie Quan. The NFL team posted their photo gallery of the day's practice with the caption, "Did a lot of s— just to live this here lifestyle," referencing Rich Gang's platinum hit "Lifestyle."
Michigan State Football recalls 2014 Rose Bowl with Rich Homie Quan
The Michigan State football team used Rich Homie Quan's solo hit "Type of Way" during their 2013 campaign where they capped off a 13-1 season by winning the 2014 Rose Bowl. The Atlanta star attended the bowl game and celebrated with the team afterward.
Head coach Mark Dantonio posted a picture of himself and Rich Homie Quan with the caption, "RIP @RichHomieQuan Special Time, Special Place with Special People."
Wide receiver Tony Lippett, who had a touchdown in the game, made multiple posts expressing his sadness on hearing of Rich Homie Quan's death.
"RIP Potna," he said in one of the posts with a praying hands emojis and an interview from reporter Al Martin with the MC in the locker room after the big game. "You will be Remembered 4Eva."
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