Artist: RWD

While details are sketchy, shocking news this evening that UGK's Pimp C has been found dead in his Los Angeles hotel room. He was 33.

No cause of death has yet been given, although Pimp's passing is being treated as homicide. This does not necessarily mean anything sinister, as LAPD must always rule out foul play if a death occurs outside of a hospital. Pimp, born Chad Butler, was found dead in his bed at the Mondrain hotel after fireman responded to a 999 call.

A representative of Pimp C confirmed his death and asked: "Everyone please respect his family and those close to him at this time and refrain from rumors and innuendo."

The Texan rapper, alongside his friend Bun B were widely considered among the mainstays of the Southern rap scene. After Scarface's The Geto Boys, they helped put Houston on the map long before Paul Wall, Mike Jone, Chamillionaire and Slim Thug.

We mourn the unexpected loss of Chad," said Jive Records' President and CEO Barry Weiss. "He was truly a thoughtful and kind-hearted person. He will be remembered for his talent and profound influence as a pioneer in bringing southern rap to the forefront. He will be missed and our prayers remain with his family and Bun B. I've known Chad since he was 18, and we loved him dearly and he was a cherished member of the Jive family."

Pimp C worked not only with Jay-Z on the infamous Big Pimpin', but even appears on Dizzee's latest album, Maths + English. UGK are undoubtedly one of the most widely acclaimed rap duo's in hip hop history.

The pair scored success this year with their latest, self-titled album, propelled by the fantastic International Players Anthem, co-starring Andre 3000.

RWD would like to send a most sincere Rest In Peace to Pimp C...

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