Rest In Peace Eyedea

Pause on hoops. We interrupt your regularly scheduled "Dream Week" posting to bring some unfortunate news.

Many of you know that Free Darko has some of its roots in our common music interests. Shoals and I met through exchanging rap tapes back in the day, and one of the artists we particularly liked was a friend of mine named Eyedea from St. Paul, Minnesota. Sadly, I received news today that Eyedea passed away. Shoals and I agreed we should pay tribute.

His family has created a Paypal account and is accepting donations towards the cost of his services. If you would like to make a donation, you can do so by accessing this link.

Those of you familiar with Eyedea know he was one of the most creative people alive. Below are some clips showcasing his talent:



First Minneapolis rappers on Stretch & Bobbito. I remember how proud I was when I heard this. Also, I remember how proud Eyedea was that he rhymed "Bobbito" with "cock diesel"



My favorite Eyedea & Abilities song of all time. From the Industrial Warfare Headshots tape.



This is when Eyedea reached national prominence, winning the Blaze Battle amongst of performances by Bad Boy (Shyne and Black Rob), Slick Rick and Doug E. Fresh, and host KRS ONE. Again, Eyedea made all of us in Minnesota extremely proud for his performance here.



Eyedea doing what he does best, talking shit. Off the first Eyedea & Abilities album, First Born.



Eyedea's first "released" song off of Anomaly's album. Perfect juxtaposition with the Miles sample.



The infamous Scribble Jam battle, in which Eyedea took on his idol, P.E.A.C.E., from Freestyle Fellowship, and won.



One of the times I was blessed to share the stage with Eyedea--almost 10 years ago to the day.



Raw talent. Another classic from my and Shoals' golden years.


Rest In Peace to Eyedea...You will be missed.