It saddens me to say but Chicago and the music industry have lost a very important and influential member of the culture, DJ Timbuck2. He was 34. DJ Timbuck2 passed away unexpectedly after battling cancer.

Timbuck2 carried the flag for Chicago hip-hop. He was the first, and for so long one of the only, Chicago DJ that spotlighted Chicago artists. DJ Timbuck2 broke so much local talent that have gone on to have great careers. And always kept Chicago’s party scene rocking! He worked with the greatest and DJ’d for everybody, including Common, Lupe Fiasco and Kanye. DJ Timbuck2 had a long-running presence on Chicago radio, specifically 107.5 WGCI, and was a member of the Heavy Hitters and protege of the legendary DJ Clark Kent and Chicago’s very own superproducers Twilight Tone and No I.D.

Personally, I was always motivated as a DJ and music lover by Timbuck2 and had the opportunity to once tell him that he’s the reason why I dig so hard for new music and new artists. And definitely one of the reasons why I rep the Chicago music scene so hard. I can’t lie, this is a hard pill to swallow and it’s really hard to write this. Trying to hold back the tears. Salute and RIP to one of the greatest, DJ Timbuck2. #GoILL #ChicagoLove