Derek Emmanuel Barbosa Obituary, Death – East Coast rapper Chino XL, whose real name was Derek Emmanuel Barbosa, has reportedly passed away. The news was confirmed by an inside source to AllHipHop in a text on Monday, July 29. Fellow rapper A-F-R-O quickly took to Twitter to express his condolences, posting, “RIP to CHINO XL .. I’m gonna miss you, big bro.” This tribute reflects the deep impact Chino XL had on those around him and the hip-hop community at large.
Born on April 8, 1974, in the Bronx, Chino XL later moved to New Jersey, where he began to cultivate his unique style and voice in hip-hop. He first gained widespread recognition in the 1990s with his debut album, Here to Save You All, released in 1996. This album showcased his incredible lyrical prowess and storytelling ability, setting him apart as a powerful voice in the genre. Known for his intricate wordplay and complex rhymes, Chino XL quickly became a respected figure in hip-hop.
Throughout his career, Chino XL released several albums, including I Told You So (2001) and Poison Pen (2006), each further establishing his reputation as a skilled lyricist and storyteller. His talents extended beyond music, as he appeared in various films and television shows, adding another dimension to his artistic profile.
Chino XL was also known for his collaborations with numerous artists across different genres, earning him a respected place in the broader music community. His versatility and influence were evident in his recent collaboration with Rakim on the track “Pendulum Swing” from Rakim’s album G.O.D.’s Network: REB7RTH. Chino XL’s contributions to hip-hop are celebrated and his legacy will be remembered by fans and fellow artists alike. His passing marks a significant loss to the music world, where his unique voice and talent will be dearly missed.