Fans and celebrities reflect on legacy of Combat Jack after news of his death
Hip-hop fans and celebrities are mourning the loss of hop-hop trailblazer Combat Jack after news of his death broke early Wednesday.
»RELATED: Hip-hop attorney, podcaster Combat Jack dies at 48, reports say
Born Reggie Osse, the influencer was a well-known hip-hop attorney, historian, editor and podcast host. He gained recognition for his extensive knowledge on the culture and connection to famed artists, including Jay Z and Capone-N-Noreaga.
He died just two months after announcing he’d been diagnosed with colon cancer.
As details regarding his death hit the internet, many flocked to social media to express their condolences and share their favorite memories of the famed trailblazer.
Several said they were shocked to hear about his passing. Not everyone knew he had been battling the illness.
Combat Jack's death was so unexpected for me. Especially at 48 yo. I had no idea he was battling cancer. I'm in shock right now.
— ArlingtonDiva (@ArlingtonDiva) December 20, 2017
I am completely in Shock
— Askem (@A5KEM) December 20, 2017
Rest In Peace Combat Jack pic.twitter.com/IhoPWPBf4w
Actual Hip Hop OG's are dropping like flies, Combat Jack is another surprise death just like Prodigy.
— Makaveli (@JustMakaveli) December 20, 2017
R.I.P.
Others complimented his work ethic, sharing how much they were able to learn from him. They heralded him as a pioneer and legend in the industry.
I am so, so sad to hear of the death of Combat Jack. He taught us so much. He told all the stories. He educated us on Hip Hop and life and brought context to everything. He also let us into his family. I didn’t know him personally but his work affected me. RIP
— Darian Symoné Harvin 🔴 (@dariansymone) December 20, 2017
Sending love to our extended podcast family today as we mourn the loss of The Godfather of podcasting Combat Jack. We don’t really have the words to say how much he meant to the work we do, what he created & contributed to the podcasting industry and the greater cultures of … pic.twitter.com/awuE6258EY
— Tea with Queen & J. (@TeawithQJ) December 20, 2017
Though I'm extremely sadden, it's amazing to see how many people's lives that Combat Jack impacted, he created something that will allow his voice to live forever & he did everything in his power to allow others to have the same.
— Holden Caulfield (@thisisrory) December 20, 2017
»RELATED: Rapper Prodigy of Mobb Deep dies at 42
A few praised him for his dedication to his craft, while also reflecting on his gentle spirit. Many called him “kind” and said he had “a heart of gold.”
Combat Jack was one of the kindest and most honest people I’ve ever met. He had a heart of gold.
— deray (@deray) December 20, 2017
RIP, @Combat_Jack. You are missed.
RIP Combat Jack. No words suffice to capture the multitudes he possessed. A rap encyclopedia who could spin stories about both Bronx block parties & the Paradise Garage. A brilliant interviewer & attorney. A kind gentle soul who understood & cared about the culture like no other.
— Otto Von Biz Markie (@Passionweiss) December 20, 2017
Reggie Ossé aka Combat Jack was extraordinarily kind and supportive to everyone who sought his counsel and everyone he worked with. He was wickedly smart, knowledgeable, and so, so funny. He will be missed. RIP.
— Damien Scott (@thisisdscott) December 20, 2017
A slew of celebrities chimed in, too. From radio personalities to rappers, supporters wrote how much they would miss him.
I respected him and his work. Good Spirit. RIP Combat Jack
— MC HAMMER (@MCHammer) December 20, 2017
R.i.p Combat jack !!! We gonna miss u king!! pic.twitter.com/aYBfv1JjvY
— Raekwon Da Chef (@Raekwon) December 20, 2017
Rest In Peace to the Legendary Combat Jack. And thank you for everything.
— Joe Budden (@JoeBudden) December 20, 2017
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Click here to sign the guest book for Combat Jack.
About the Author
Najja Parker is a multimedia journalist covering Black culture for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. She is an engaging on-air talent, who has served as a host for the newsroom’s special projects and events, such as the movie premiere of “The South Got Something To Say,” a documentary chronicling the rise of Atlanta hip-hop.
