P.E.A.C.E. of Freestyle Fellowship Remembered After His Passing

The hip-hop community is mourning the loss of P.E.A.C.E., a founding member of the influential group Freestyle Fellowship, who has passed away. His real name was Mtulazaji Davis, and news of his death was confirmed through a statement on the group’s official Instagram page. As of now, the cause of death has not been disclosed.

The heartfelt tribute on social media expressed the group’s profound loss, stating, “Rest well brother P.E.A.C.E. You had a great heart and you were authentic. One of West Coast hip-hop royal treasures.” This sentiment resonates deeply with fans and fellow artists alike, as Davis’s impact on the music scene has been significant.

P.E.A.C.E. was a prominent figure in the Los Angeles hip-hop scene, developing his skills at The Good Life Cafe during the late 1980s. It was there that he met fellow artists Myka 9, Aceyalone, and Self Jupiter, leading to the formation of Freestyle Fellowship. The group became known for their tender, lyrically dense, and innovative sound, which helped shape the alternative hip-hop genre. Their influence can be traced in the works of numerous artists, including The Pharcyde.

Throughout his career, Davis contributed to several notable albums, including To Whom It May Concern… in 1991 and Innercity Griots in 1993. His solo work included Southern Fry’d Chicken, released in 2000, and Megabite in 2004. Beyond his recordings, he was a vital part of the Project Blowed collective, one of hip-hop’s longest-running open mic workshops.

Tributes Pour In from the Hip-Hop Community

The news of P.E.A.C.E.’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the hip-hop community. Blu, a frequent collaborator of Myka 9, shared his admiration on Instagram, stating, “P.E.A.C.E. is the illest emcee from the most infamous Freestyle Fellowship.” He emphasized P.E.A.C.E.’s unique style and the lasting influence he had on the genre, noting, “P.E.A.C.E. was uncanny, P.E.A.C.E. is the God. Wish I got a chance to tell him.”

Other artists, including Exile, Open Mike Eagle, Kenny Segal, Saul Williams, and Aesop Rock, also expressed their condolences and shared their memories of Davis. His legacy as a pioneering artist will undoubtedly endure, as he is remembered for his authentic contributions to the hip-hop landscape.

As tributes continue to pour in, the impact of P.E.A.C.E. and Freestyle Fellowship on generations of artists remains undeniable. The music world has lost a true visionary, and his influence will continue to inspire future generations.