Dutch-Turkish rapper Yukkie B, born Yuksel Ozince, died Sunday at the age of 56 from kidney cancer, his former partner announced through a crowdfunding page set up for his funeral, Nu.nl reports.
“He passed away peacefully,” his ex-partner wrote. On Monday morning, his ex-partner reported that they had raised more than 16,000 euros for his farewell, which was sufficient to arrange the funeral Yukkie B had wished for. “I want to thank everyone for all the support and will also share the funeral’s date,” she continued. In the meantime, we ask for time and peace so that we can mourn this loss.”
Yukkie B rose to prominence in 1997 with the song Wat Nou!. He also appeared on the single Zoete Inval by fellow Dutch rapper Extince, which reached number 30 in the Dutch Top 40. In 1998, he won a TMF Award in the rap category.
The Dutch hip-hop community reacted with shock to his death. Rapper Extince wrote on Instagram that when he moved to Amsterdam 40 years ago, Yukkie B was one of the first people he met. “We keep your name alive, brother,” he said.
Rapper Brainpower, who worked with Yukkie B on the song Zoete Inval, referred to him as “a true pioneer” and a ” brother in rhyme.” Rapper Skate the Great, also featured on the track, said Yukkie B had “gone too soon.” Rapper Cliften Nille from the group Spookrijders paid tribute by quoting his own song, writing, “You are the man.”