The rapper Gangsta Boo is dead. Lola Chantrelle Mitchell, her real name, was 43 years old. She was born in Memphis on August 7, 1979 and passed away on January 1, 2023. This news was confirmed on Instagram and caused widespread expressions of sadness on social media.
A (Memphis) rap pioneer
Gangsta Boo’s career began when she became a member of the group Three 6 Mafia. At that time she was 15 years old. She was involved in the group’s first five albums between 1995 and 2001. During this time she also released the solo albums ENQUIRING MINDS and BOTH WORLDS, *69. After leaving Three 6 Mafia in 2002, she released INQUIRING MINDS II – THE SOAP OPERA. Her discography also includes a number of mixtapes and collaboration albums, including 2014’s WITCH with rapper La Chat. Both worked together on Three 6 Mafia.
Her career was marked by features
In addition to her influence on one of the most formative bands in Memphis rap, Gangsta Boo made a name for herself primarily as a feature artist. Guest appearances are a defining feature of her entire career. They also show the enduring and far-reaching respect the scene had for them. Among others, Gangsta Boo has worked with Lil Wayne, OutKast, Eminem, Run The Jewels and Gucci Mane. Most recently she was responsible for the Adlibs on Lattos and GloRilla’s “FTCU”. You can also see her in the video.
Despite the musical diversity of their many partners, Gangsta Boo has always retained its style and southern sound. This is how she has managed to stay relevant without succumbing to trends. In August 2022 she gave Billboard an interview. In it, she also spoke about her influence on the rap scene, specifically female rap in the US. She expresses respect and admiration for newcomers and established greats. But she also makes it clear that she considers her role instrumental. “I am the blueprint.” Appropriately, she had announced a new album entitled THE BOOPRINT.
The cause of her death is still unclear but is believed to be related to an overdose.