Phife Dawg, a core member of the legendary hip hop group A Tribe Called Quest, has passed away today. He was 45 years old. 

According to reports in Rolling Stone, Phife Dawg had suffered from Type 1 Diabetes for years, and underwent a kidney transplant back in 2008 for the condition. Still, that doesn’t make his loss any less heartbreaking.

Phife was a founding member of A Tribe Called Quest with childhood friend Q-Tip, alongside members Jarobi and Ali Shaheed Muhammad. The group started in 1985, but it was their 1991 album, The Low End Theory, that set them apart from their contemporaries. Low End, along with Midnight Marauders in 1993, are ranked among the top albums of all time.

The group’s ability to blend socially conscious lyrics with hip hop rhythms and jazz accompaniment set them in a league of their own. ATCQ broke up in 1998, but reunited a handful of times in the years following. RIP Phife Dawg, you will be missed.

Update 12:45 PM. 3/23:

Phife Dawg’s family has shared the following statement:

“We regret to share the news that on Tuesday March 22nd, 2016, Malik has passed away due to complications resulting from diabetes.

Malik was our loving husband, father, brother and friend. We love him dearly. How he impacted all our lives will never be forgotten. His love for music and sports was only surpassed by his love of God and family.”

Dion Liverpool, his manager adds, “While I mourn the loss of my best friend and brother, I also will celebrate his incredible life and contribution to many people’s ears across the world. Even with all his success, I have never met a person as humble as he.  He taught me that maintaining a positive attitude and outlook can conquer anything. Now my brother is resting in greatness. I’m honored to have crossed paths with him. Riddim Kidz 4eva.”

The family asks that their privacy be respected at this difficult time.