Rapper Ecstasy, co-founder the rap group Whodini, has passed away at age 56, according to multiple reports.
Rapper Questlove of The Roots broke the news on social media on Wednesday. “One love to Ecstasy of the legendary Whodini,” Questlove wrote on Instagram. “This man was legendary and a pivotal member of one of the most legendary groups in hip-hop. This is sad man.”
No cause of death was disclosed.
Ecstasy, real name John Fletcher (right), formed the group Whodini with Jalil Hutchins (left) in 1982. Four years later, DJ Grandmaster Dee (center) joined the group.
Whodini released 6 studio albums, four were certified platinum. The group was best known for their hit singles “Friends”, “One Love” and “Freaks Come Out at Night.” Their single “Magic’s Wand,” was the first rap song accompanied by a music video.
Fans and friends flooded social media with tributes.
“My God, this one hurts me so bad,” tweeted Jermaine Dupri, who toured with the group as a teenage backup dancer. He captioned a throwback video of himself with the group: “I can’t even believe I’m typing this. Ex, you know I love you. Thank you for every word, every conversation, every good time. May your soul rest in power.”
