The Chicago music scene is mourning the sudden death of DJ Rashad after his body was found in his West Side apartment on Saturday, Apr. 26. According to reports, a friend discovered the DJ inside his apartment around 1:30 p.m. and police pronounced him dead at the scene a short time later.
DJ Godfather was the first to announce the tragic news on Twitter.
"I'm hearing some very disturbing news I need a confirmation about...," he tweeted.
A few minutes later he posted, "R.I.P. to my long time friend DJ Rashad. Great friend & producer. I loved all the music we released over the years. U will be missed!"
According to the Chicago Tribune, Godfather was supposed to perform in Detroit Saturday evening with Rashad and DJ Spinn.
"I can't even play tonight the more I think about Rashad... f**k today," Godfather posted.
"Detroit I need y'all to come out tonight!! @djtayeteklife we cant do nothing but go hard tonight for our brother @DJRASHAD #teklifeforever," Spinn tweeted.
Police have not yet made an official announcement about the cause of death but there are reports that the DJ, whose real name was Rashad Harden, died from a drug overdose. Police said that drug paraphernalia and narcotics were discovered near the body, the Chicago Tribune reports. DJ Rashad was in his mid-30s at the time of his death.
The popular DJ was known for the creation of Footwork, a variation of house music that uses sped-up tempos and complicated rhythms. He also performed at several clubs in the Chicago area and played at the Pitchfork Music Festival last year. DJ Rashad was expected to play at the festival again this year.
At the end of 2013, DJ Rashad opened for Chicago native Chance the Rapper.
"Music lost a legend today. And he was my friend. Love you DJ Rashad. RIP," Chance tweeted.
