On Wednesday (Jan. 1), rising Minnesota rapper Lexii Alijai passed away. She was 21.
Alijai’s publicity team, 1AM Media, confirmed the news through a statement sent to Billboard.
“Lexii was an extraordinary talent who left an indelible mark on the music industry in just a short period of time,” it reads. “She was a true lyricist and an exceptional storyteller with an authentic sound full of energy and curiosity. She had a deep love and devotion to music but more than anything, was a generous and kind soul with an infectious spirit.”
Alijai was also set to release her debut album later this year. “Lexii was inspired by J. Cole and the time she spent with the many Dreamville artists and was enthusiastic about the future and eager to see the world. Her debut album Come Back Soon was set to release this year.”
“The entire 1AM family is heartbroken and deeply saddened by her passing. Our deepest condolences to her friends, fans and everyone who was touched by her. Her family appreciates privacy during this difficult time.”
Alijai — who was also the granddaughter of renowned singer/songwriter Roger Troutman — began buzzing after creating a strong following through YouTube and SoundCloud. In 2015, she released her project Joseph’s Coat and in 2017, returned with Growing Pains. The promising star also collaborated with Kehlani on the singer’s 2015 record “Jealous.”
“I’m so sick,” expressed Kehlani on Instagram shortly after hearing of Alijai’s passing. “i’m so angry. i’m confused and my heart is broken. i don’t know why this happened. i don’t know what you’ve ever done but be brilliant, kind, strong, gentle, compassionate… my lil fuckin baby dawg. you got my heart on the floor right now lex. you were such a star to me because every word you spoke was true. every word you wrote was honest.”
Currently, Alijai’s cause of death remains unknown.
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