Malik B of The Roots died today at age 47, according to his cousin Don Champion.

Mourning my beloved cousin today. He was so talented and had a huge heart. I still remember when he and The Roots were starting out. He'd give me and my dad their cassette tapes to listen to. I miss you already, Mailk. #RIP ❤️ https://t.co/UMQeXJsWmf

— Don Champion (@DonChampionTV) July 29, 2020

The cause of death is unknown.  Malik Abdul Basit was 47.

The Philly rapper was a member of The Roots for the group's first four albums.  He would return to The Roots on later albums as a featured artist.   He was more recently in Beard Gang with fellow Philly rapper Freeway.

RIP.

Heartbroken to hear of the passing of Malik B, one of the greatest MC's to ever come from this city. He had his troubles for sure, but dude inspired a whole generation of us to touch the mic. Myself included. May he rest peacefully.

— Reef The Lost Cauze (@LostCauze) July 29, 2020