Rico Wade, a key producer for Outkast and member of Organized Noize, has passed away at the age of 52. Wade, along with Ray Murray and Sleepy Brown, founded the Dungeon Family collective in the early 1990s, which included artists like Big Boi, André 3000, and CeeLo Green.
Through their company Organized Noize, Wade and his partners produced some of Outkast’s most iconic albums, including “Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik” and “ATLiens.” They also worked on hits like TLC’s “Waterfalls” and Ludacris’ “Saturday (Oooh! Ooooh!).”
Born in East Point, Georgia, Wade played a significant role in launching the careers of artists like Janelle Monáe, Killer Mike, and Future. Killer Mike, in particular, expressed his deep sense of loss on social media, thanking Wade for his mentorship and friendship.
Wade’s family released a statement expressing their sadness over his sudden passing and asking for privacy during this difficult time. He is survived by his mother, two sons, wife, and siblings.
The music industry has lost a true talent in Rico Wade, whose contributions to hip-hop and R&B will be remembered for years to come. Fans and fellow artists alike are mourning the loss of a legend in the music world.