Who is Young Greatness? Things to know about the slain rapper

NEW ORLEANS — Hip-hop fans were reeling Monday morning after news broke that New Orleans rapper Young Greatness was killed near a Waffle House in his hometown.

The 34-year-old rapper, whose real name is Theodore Jones, was gunned down Monday morning around 1:35 a.m., according to WWL. He was pronounced dead on the scene. The New Orleans Police Department is investigating evidence in effort to identify a suspect and motive.

>> Read more trending news

Fans and celebrities have taken to social media to share their condolences for the rapper.

Young Greatness gained the attention of hip-hop fans with his catchy single "Moolah" in 2015. The song, considered a street classic, spent seven weeks on the Billboard 100, according to music website Hot New Hip Hop. The song was produced by Atlanta-based producer Jazze Pha.

In the latest trend of artists remixing the tracks of fellow musicians, Young Greatness’ hot track was redone by rap heavyweights Lil Wayne and Yo Gotti.

Born and raised in New Orleans, Jones moved to Houston after Hurricane Katrina hit his hometown in 2005. As a teenager, he was influenced by Jay-Z and fellow New Orleans rapper Juvenile.

Jones collaborated with Meek Mill on the single “Rollie on My Wrist” and his idol Juvenile on “Buku.” His last studio album was 2017’s “Bloody Summer.”

According to his website, the rapper intended to release a new album on his own label, Mile High Music Group, this year.

Those with any information about the shooting are asked to contact NOPD Homicide Detective Brett Mathes at 504-658-5300 or Crime Stoppers at 504-822-1111.

Cox Media Group