New Orleans bounce rapper, Nicky Da B, recognized for his contribution to Diplo’s “Express Yourself” has passed away. According to The Times-Picayune, the artist’s manager, Rusty Lazer, said that Nicky, real name Nickesse Toney, died “after a brief illness.” The confirmation comes after Big Freedia announced the news on Twitter Thursday:
I’m truly at a loss for words at the news that my friend + fellow Bounce artist @NickyDaB has passed away. #toomanyfunerals R.I.P NickyDaB
— Big Freedia (@bigfreedia) September 2, 2014
Diplo also took to his timeline to honor Nicky, revealing that they had been working on his next album.
He was not only an important figure for New Orleans.. Bounce music.. He was a good friend and gave me one of my defining songs .
— CATEGORY 6 PLURICANE (@diplo) September 2, 2014
He was an amazing writer and had one of a kind voice .. We working on an album for mad decent ….
— CATEGORY 6 PLURICANE (@diplo) September 2, 2014
Rest in peace @NickyDaB
— CATEGORY 6 PLURICANE (@diplo) September 2, 2014
Nicky’s management released this official statement on his death:
Remember Nicky through his sounds of bounce below. //www.youtube.com/embed/BKaL7WL-onI