Tag: freestyle fellowship

The hip-hop community is in mourning following the devastating news of the passing of P.E.A.C.E., a truly iconic and legendary member of the influential group Freestyle Fellowship. His contributions were instrumental in shaping the landscape of West Coast hip-hop, and his absence will be deeply felt.

A West Coast Royal

P.E.A.C.E., whose real name was Mtulazaji Davis, passed away recently, as confirmed by a heartfelt statement on the group’s official Instagram page. While the cause of death has not yet been revealed, the group expressed their profound grief, calling him “one of West coast Hiphop royal treasures” with a “great heart” and an “authentic” spirit.

Our deepest condolences go out to Mtulazaji Davis’ loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. His legacy is cemented in the annals of hip-hop history.

From The Good Life Cafe to Global Influence

Like many talented young artists in late 1980s South Central L.A., P.E.A.C.E. honed his incredible lyrical skills at the legendary open mic venue, The Good Life Cafe. It was there that he connected with Myka 9 and Aceyalone, eventually forming Freestyle Fellowship with Self Jupiter. Their unique sound—tender, lyrically dense, creative, and deeply grounded—was a cornerstone of alternative hip-hop, influencing countless artists, including groups like The Pharcyde.

Many fans and peers consider Davis to have been the most gifted lyricist within the quartet. Beyond their seminal albums like “To Whom It May Concern…” (1991) and “Innercity Griots” (1993), P.E.A.C.E. also released solo projects, “Southern Fry’d Chicken” (2000) and “Megabite” (2004). His influence also lives on through the Project Blowed collective, one of hip-hop’s most enduring open mic workshops.

Tributes Pour In From Hip-Hop’s Elite

The impact of P.E.A.C.E. was immediately recognized by fellow artists. Blu, a frequent collaborator of Myka 9 and a respected L.A. artist himself, shared a touching tribute on Instagram. He hailed P.E.A.C.E. as “the illest emcee from the most infamous Freestyle Fellowship,” noting his unique style that predated even ODB’s iconic delivery.

P.E.A.C.E. was uncanny, P.E.A.C.E. is the God. Wish I got a chance to tell him. There will never be another. Peace P.E.A.C.E., rest in power & paradise. — Blu

Tributes continued to flood in from a wide array of respected figures in the hip-hop world, including Exile, Open Mike Eagle, Kenny Segal, Saul Williams, and Aesop Rock, all honoring the legacy of the late artist.

A Legacy That Will Endure

P.E.A.C.E.’s passing is a profound loss for hip-hop. His lyrical prowess, innovative spirit, and dedication to the craft left an indelible mark on the genre. He will be remembered not just for his incredible talent, but for his authenticity and his significant contributions to the culture.