by Atlanta, GA — Young Noble, rapper and longtime member of the iconic hip-hop group Outlawz, has died at the age of 47. Noble, born Rufus Lee Cooper III, was known for his work alongside Tupac Shakur and his contributions to the West Coast hip-hop scene.
A representative for the rapper confirmed his death to PEOPLE, while TMZ reported that Noble died by suicide in Atlanta on Friday, July 4. The Atlanta Police Department (APD) has not publicly commented on the incident.
Tributes from the Hip-Hop Community
News of Noble’s passing has sent shockwaves through the music industry, with many artists expressing grief and emphasizing the importance of mental health.
Snoop Dogg, who was a labelmate of both Tupac and Noble on Death Row Records, also paid tribute:
“DAMN. Mental health is real,” Snoop wrote, adding Tupac and Outlawz’ song “The Good Die Young” to his post.
Fellow Outlawz member E.D.I. Mean, devastated by the news, shared an emotional message online:
“Today I got some of the worst and unexpected news imaginable. My brother and partner for over 30 years took his life this morning. Rest in Power Rufus Young Noble Cooper,” Mean wrote, asking for privacy for Noble’s family.
“Mental illness is a real battle being fought by so many. CHECK ON UR FOLKS!” he added.
Noble’s Legacy
Noble joined the Outlawz in early 1996, handpicked by Tupac Shakur just months before Shakur’s tragic death in Las Vegas. He was the final member added to the group, which became known for their hard-hitting lyrics and unwavering loyalty to Tupac’s vision.
Noble’s contributions include four tracks on Shakur’s posthumous album “The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory,” including the iconic song “Hail Mary.”
Beyond his work with Outlawz, Noble pursued a solo career, releasing albums such as “Noble Justice” and “Son of God.”
A Final Message
Noble’s final social media post, shared on June 22, now carries a haunting weight. The uplifting message read:
“You’re not reading this by accident. This is your confirmation. You’re going to make it. No matter what it looks like right now. God is going to send blessings, solutions, healing, love, and positive change your way. So hold on, be strong and don’t give up. You are next in line for your miracle.”
A Reminder About Mental Health
Noble’s death is the latest reminder of the silent struggles many face, even amid fame and success. The hip-hop community and Noble’s fans continue to mourn his loss, while voices across the industry call for greater mental health awareness and support.
