A second member of the controversial Memphis-based group Three 6 Mafia has met a tragically premature end.
Koopsta Knicca, who was born Robert Cooper Phillips, suffered a major stroke and had been on life support since the weekend of Oct. 3. Knicca was only 40 years old.
The group probably is best known in the mainstream and by many urbanites for their Oscar-winning song, “It’s Hard out Here for Pimp,” which became a surprise smash when it was used on the critically-acclaimed movie, Hustle & Flow, starring Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson.
DJ Paul issued the following statement on social media on the passing of his fellow group member:
“My group member and brother for over 20 years, Robert “Koopsta Knicca” Phillips passed away today at 12:55 am CST from a major stroke he had Sunday after showering. He went in peace. Me and Koop had just started writing his new album Devil’s Playground 2, the second part to his famous solo album that I produced, but we didn’t get a chance to record yet. We had concerts coming up starting next month too. He also just got a home in Vegas that he was moving to on Tuesday, but never got to even see it in person. Everyone who knew Koop knew he was very funny and the coolest guy ever! He will be missed!!! We made classics together that’ll live on!!! Mafia 4 Life!!!! “
Koopsta Knicca and DJ Paul were about to start a new recording project titled, “Devil’s Playground 2,” when he suffered that medical malady earlier this month and never recovered.
Koopsta Knicca is the second member of the group to die prematurely. In December 2013, group member Ricky Dunigan, aka Lord Infamous, suffered a fatal heart attack at his mother’s home.
Photo: Instagram
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