Brother Marquis, 2 Live Crew Member Dies at 58
Rapper Brother Marquis, a member of 2 Live Crew, died at 58, announced on the group’s Instagram. Formed in 1984 in Riverside, CA, 2 Live Crew rose to fame in Miami. Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images

Brother Marquis, a prominent figure in the hip-hop scene and a member of the iconic group 2 Live Crew, has passed away at the age of 58.

His death was confirmed by 2 Live Crew's Instagram account on Monday evening, although no details regarding the cause or location of his passing were provided, Deadline reports.

Rapper Brother Marquis, born Mark Ross, played a significant role in shaping the group's identity and musical legacy.

Brother Marquis, also known as Mark Ross, was a key member of the influential Miami hip-hop group 2 Live Crew.

Alongside Luther Campbell (Uncle Luke), Christopher Wong Won (Fresh Kid Ice), and David Hobbs (Mr. Mixx), Ross contributed to the group's rise to prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

With their explicit lyrics and provocative style, 2 Live Crew garnered both acclaim and controversy, challenging societal norms and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

Legacy of Controversy and Influence

Mark Ross, widely recognized by his stage name, Brother Marquis, was a pivotal figure in 2 Live Crew's success and notoriety.

The group's explicit lyrics and provocative themes, notably showcased in songs like "Me So Horny" and "We Want Some Pussy," propelled them to national attention while also sparking controversy and legal battles.

Despite facing criticism and censorship, 2 Live Crew's impact on hip-hop culture remains undeniable, according to The Hollwood Reporter.

Born in Rochester, New York, in 1966, Mark Ross relocated to Los Angeles during his teenage years, where he immersed himself in the local rap scene.

It was during this time that he honed his skills as a rapper and established connections within the music industry.

In 1986, Ross joined 2 Live Crew, solidifying the group's lineup and contributing to their groundbreaking sound.

Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, 2 Live Crew enjoyed commercial success with several gold and platinum-selling albums.

Their debut album, "The 2 Live Crew Is What We Are," laid the foundation for their controversial yet influential style.

Subsequent releases, including "As Nasty as They Wanna Be" and "Banned in the USA," further solidified their status as trailblazers in hip-hop.

Tributes and Reflections

Mark Ross' passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow artists alike.

Luther Campbell, also known as Uncle Luke, expressed condolences and fond memories of their time together in 2 Live Crew, BBC noted.

Rapper Brother Marquis' contributions to the group's legacy and his unwavering commitment to artistic freedom have left an indelible mark on the hip-hop community.

Beyond their musical achievements, 2 Live Crew's legal battles and cultural impact have left a legacy.

The group's landmark court cases, including the ruling on the album "As Nasty as They Wanna Be" and the Supreme Court decision in Campbell v. Acuff-Rose Music, Inc., have shaped the landscape of free speech and copyright law in the United States.

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Written by: Ross Key

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