Carr, a Brooklyn-born rapper and producer who was also a 9/11 first responder, passed away suddenly over the weekend. He was 52 years old.
Kaseem Ryan, known by his fans as “Kar”, died Saturday in his hometown of New York City. His grieving family made the announcement on social media..
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Kaseem Ryan (1972-2024), rapper and producer known as Kaa.” The post says:.
“Born and raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn, Carr lived a life of service to his city, his community, and his music.”
The rapper's cause of death has not been made public.
The Big Apple native has self-released 11 independent albums throughout his career, including August's The Thief Next To Jesus.
He was also a 20-year veteran of the New York City Fire Department and “risked his life to protect his fellow citizens,” according to the post.
He rose through the ranks in the FDNY, eventually becoming a captain and serving as a first responder during the September 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center, his family said.
“He left an extraordinary legacy as a recording artist,” said a tribute on social media, referring to the anthology of albums he insisted on producing and releasing independently.
Ka started out in the early '90s as a member of the Natural Elements group and released his first solo album, Iron Works, in 2008. The album caught the attention of Wu-Tang Clan member GZA, who invited Ka to appear on his album. 2008 album “Pro Tools”.
The rapper was loved for his lyricism, According to music outlet Pitchforkeven hosted a DIY event to celebrate the album's release and talk to fans. The outlet said Kerr was so proud of being an independent artist that he even shipped orders himself.
Kerr's family wrote in a post asking for privacy while they “grieve this immeasurable loss.”
Heartbroken fans flooded the comments section of the memorial, which had amassed nearly 30,000 likes as of Tuesday morning, offering condolences to Kerr's family and expressing their love for him. did.
“Kerr is one of the greatest lyricists of all time…and, without any fancy words, being a firefighter is one of the greatest jobs we as human beings respect. My heart is broken. My condolences to the family. ” one fan wrote.
Another fan commented: “Rest in peace in a legendary paradise.”
Ka is survived by his wife, mother and sister.
