The Hip-Hop world is reeling from the devastating loss of Young Noble, a member of Tupac Shakur’s legendary group Outlawz, who has died by suicide at the age of 47.
Sources close to the situation tell TMZ Hip Hop that Young Noble, born Rufus Lee Cooper III, passed away Friday morning in Atlanta from a gunshot wound believed to be self-inflicted. Local authorities have yet to release an official report, but tributes from the Hip-Hop community have already begun pouring in.
“Today I got some of the worst and unexpected news imaginable,” wrote Outlawz co-founder E.D.I. Mean in a heartbreaking Instagram post. “My brother and partner for over 30 years took his life this morning. Rest in Power Rufus ‘Young Noble’ Cooper. Mental illness is a real battle being fought by so many. CHECK ON UR FOLKS!”
Fans and fellow artists are expressing shock and grief as news of his death spreads across social media.
A Legacy Tied to Tupac Shakur
Young Noble cemented his place in Hip-Hop history as the last member personally recruited by Tupac Shakur to join Outlawz in early 1996. The group, whose name stands for Operating Under Thug Laws As Warriors, became a vital part of Tupac’s later career and legacy.
Noble featured on four tracks on Tupac’s iconic posthumous album The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory, including the timeless classic “Hail Mary.” The album dropped in November 1996—just two months after Tupac’s tragic murder in Las Vegas.
Heartbreak After Heartbreak
In a December 2024 interview—his first in seven years—Young Noble became emotional recalling the back-to-back losses of both Tupac and fellow Outlawz member Yaki Kadafi.
“Biggie dying affected us too… I was almost questioning like, ‘Damn man, maybe I should have stayed in school and figured something else out,’” he said, reflecting on the violent era that claimed so many lives. “Two of my friends just died back to back. It was horrible. Horrible for Hip-Hop.”
Surviving a Heart Attack, Advocating for Health
This tragedy comes just three years after Young Noble survived a severe heart attack in 2021. At the time, he expressed gratitude for a second chance at life, sharing with fans on Instagram:
“God is too good & the amazing doctors brought me back… This will only make me stronger. I’m grateful for a second chance and I beg y’all please take your health serious—all the unhealthy living and stress catches up sooner than later!”
Despite his health scare, Noble had been active in the studio and recently spotted playing basketball with friends. Sources say he didn’t show any signs of illness prior to his death.
Hip-Hop Icons React: “This One Hurts”
The news of Noble’s passing has rocked the Hip-Hop community.
- Xzibit commented: “Just heard the news brother. I’m processing this as well. I wish him peace and comfort. Condolences to you and all of the families involved. Tragedy.”
- Snoop Dogg, Krayzie Bone, E-40, Suge Knight Jr., and KXNG Crooked also shared their condolences online.
Fans have flooded social media with memories of Noble’s music, particularly his work on Outlawz’s platinum-certified album Still I Rise, a collaboration with Tupac.
Remembering Young Noble
Young Noble’s contribution to Hip-Hop went far beyond music. As part of a group forged in tragedy, he carried on Tupac’s mission of authenticity and resistance in an industry often plagued by superficiality.
He is survived by his family and a legacy that continues to inspire generations of artists and fans.
Young Noble was 47.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
💬 What’s Your Favorite Young Noble Verse?
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