Malik B, an American rapper and founding member of The Roots, has died at the age of 47. 

The hip-pop group announced the death of the Philadelphia-born MC in a social media post last night.

‘It is with heavy hearts and tearful eyes that we regretfully inform you of the passing of our beloved brother and long time Roots member Malik Abdul Basit. May he be remembered for his devotion to Islam, His loving brotherhood and his innovation as one of the most gifted MCs of all time. We ask that you please respect his family and extended family in our time of mourning such a great loss.’

His cause of death wasn’t revealed.

Malik B, whose real name is Malik Abdul Basit was a major contributor to his group, which includes Ahmir ‘Questlove’ Thompson and Tariq ‘Black Thought’ Trotter. He appeared on four albums before departing the group in 1999 to start a solo career.

The group won its first Grammy the following year.