Chief Keef, the Chicago rapper renowned for his drill music and who gained fame in the early 2010s, has faced persistent death rumors. It is essential to clarify that, contrary to various reports, Chief Keef is alive and in good health as of April 28, 2023.
The Shooting Incident in 2018
In the significant incident that fueled Chief Keef’s death rumors, a shooting took place outside the W Hotel in New York’s Times Square on June 2, 2018. As reported by Rolling Stone, Chief Keef was targeted by an unidentified assailant, resulting in gunshots that narrowly missed him but struck the hotel signage.
This shooting was believed to be linked to Chief Keef’s ongoing feud with Brooklyn rapper 6ix9ine, who had been provoking him both online and in person. The tension escalated further as 6ix9ine was associated with Cuban Doll, a former girlfriend of Chief Keef’s cousin and fellow rapper Tadoe.
Chief Keef refrained from commenting on the incident, but his representative assured that he and his team were unharmed. 6ix9ine, denying any involvement in the shooting, asserted that he was a fan of Chief Keef.
The Death Hoax in 2019
The rumors surrounding Chief Keef’s death were further fueled by a hoax that gained traction on social media in 2019. A fabricated news article, originating from a prank website called Channel 45 News, falsely reported that Chief Keef had succumbed to a drug overdose. The misinformation spread rapidly, as many users unknowingly shared the content without realizing its fraudulent nature.
Swiftly, Chief Keef’s fans and associates debunked the hoax by sharing visual evidence of the rapper alive and in good health. While Chief Keef didn’t directly address the false report, he maintained his regular activities, continuing to release new music and perform at live shows.
The Legacy of Chief Keef
Contrary to persistent death rumors, Chief Keef remains an active force in the music industry, consistently releasing projects since his debut album “Finally Rich” in 2012. His significant influence extends beyond his own discography, particularly within the drill subgenre, originating from Chicago’s South Side.
Widely recognized as a drill music pioneer, Chief Keef is known for his contributions to the genre’s distinctive elements, marked by dark, violent, and nihilistic lyrics accompanied by unique beats. Notable hits like “I Don’t Like,” “Love Sosa,” “Faneto,” and “Earned It” showcase his enduring impact. Collaborations with artists such as Kanye West, Gucci Mane, Lil Uzi Vert, and Young Thug further underscore his influence.
Chief Keef’s journey has been marked by legal challenges, including weapons charges, house arrest sentences, and a performance ban imposed by Chicago authorities. Engaging in feuds with other notable rappers, such as 6ix9ine, Lil Durk, and Soulja Boy, has also contributed to his controversial image. However, he has displayed signs of personal growth and maturity, evident in his role as a father to nine children and the establishment of his record label, Glo Gang.
Chief Keef’s continued presence and contributions reaffirm that he is alive and remains a central figure in contemporary hip hop, solidifying his status as one of the genre’s most influential and controversial personalities.
