TAMPA, Fla. — Rapper Shock G, a producer and the frontman for the 1990s group Digital Underground, was found dead in a Florida hotel, his father said Thursday. He was 57.
The rapper, born Gregory Jacobs, was known for his alter-ego, “Humpty Hump” and his work with Tupac Shakur, who appeared in a music video with Digital Underground in the group’s 1990 song, “Humpty Dance,” People reported.
Shock G’s death was confirmed by Digital Underground co-founder Chopmaster G in an Instagram post. TMZ also reported on the rapper’s death. Jacobs’ father, Edward Racker, told the website that his son was found dead in a Tampa hotel.
“Our son, brother and friend, Gregory Jacobs, also known as Shock G, suddenly passed away today,” the rapper’s family said in a statement. “The cause of death is currently unknown. We truly, truly appreciate all the outpouring of love and concern. Please keep us in your prayers at this very difficult time.”
RIP Shock G. Can’t believe we lost another hip-hop icon. pic.twitter.com/Zg0DwLHqE7
— Patricio Chile (@patjchile) April 23, 2021
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Jacobs bounced between New York and Tampa as a child, Variety reported. After studying music at a Florida community college, Jacobs moved west to Oakland, California, according to Variety.
Oh No, Not Shock G (and his alter ego Humpty Hump). He helped keep P Funk Alive! He is responsible for Digital Underground's "The Humpty Dance", 2Pac's breakthrough single "I Get Around", and co-producer of 2Pac's debut album 2Pacalypse Now. Prayers to family & friends.🙏Dang. pic.twitter.com/51aEAw6nKn
— Bootsy Collins (@Bootsy_Collins) April 23, 2021
Shock G and Chopmaster J formed Digital Underground with Kenny K in the late 1980s, Variety reported. The group broke through in 1989 with singles “Doowhutchyalike” and “The Humpty Dance,” the video that featured Shock G in a blubbery, cartoonish voice performing with a fake nose and glasses.
Tupac was briefly a member of the group before the release of his 1991 solo debut. He is featured on “Same Song” from the “This Is an EP Release” EP, Variety reported.
👑 FACTS from #ShockG Genius 👑 https://t.co/BvxYK5UIz0
— MC HAMMER (@MCHammer) April 23, 2021
Digital Underground’s second full-length album, “Sons of the P,” was not as successful a the group’s debut, but they continued recording. Their last release was a live album in 2008, Variety reported.
Jacobs remained active as a producer, working with Dr. Dre, Bobby Brown, Luniz and Murs, the website reported. He also toured with his hero, George Clinton.
Gregory Edward Jacobs, who is most famously known as "Shock G", the lead vocalist for Digital Underground, has passed...
Posted by Louis A Medford on Thursday, April 22, 2021
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