Sam Amico
Most music fans know rapper Coolio for Gangsta’s Paradise. The 1995 hit that highlighted the soundtrack for Dangerous Minds, starring Michelle Pfeiffer.
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Coolio died Wednesday, his manager confirmed to multiple outlets, but his work will live on. That includes in the mind and heart of Pfeiffer. She reflected on his life and the song her brought to her movie.
“Heartbroken to hear of the passing of the gifted artist @coolio,” Pfeiffer wrote on Instagram. “A life cut entirely too short.”
She added, “As some of you may know, I was lucky enough to work with him on Dangerous Minds in 1995. He won a Grammy for his brilliant song on the soundtrack — which I think was the reason our film saw so much success. I remember him being nothing but gracious.”
Gangsta’s Paradise spent three weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard charts. It also ended up winning the Grammy for Best Rap Solo Performance in 1996. It continues to be one of the most-respected rap tracks in history.
Coolio was born Artis Leon Ivey Jr. on August 1, 1963 in Los Angeles. He actually served as a volunteer firefighter and worked security at the Los Angeles International Airport before becoming a professional rapper.
No cause of death has been given. Coolio was 59.
“He touched the world with the gift of his talent and will be missed profoundly,” his manager Sheila Finegan said in a statement, via Entertainment Weekly. “Thank you to everyone worldwide who has listened to his music and to everyone who has been reaching out regarding his passing. Please have Coolio’s loved ones in your thoughts and prayers.”
