Respected indie rapper Eyedea died this weekend at the age of 28. The Minneapolis MC, born Michael Larsen, was discovered by his mother early Sunday morning, and news of his death hit the internet in a matter of hours.

"It is with great pain and sadness that I tell you my son Mikey [Eyedea] has passed away," his mother wrote on Facebook. "At this time we kindly request your respect and our privacy as we process this devastating loss. On behalf of Mikey's family, close friends and fans, thank you."

Eyedea began his career as a battle rapper, quickly establishing himself as one of the best. He won the Scribble Jam MC battle two years after Eminem competed, in 1999, and took home the Blaze battle for a rumored deal with Bad Boy in 2000.

He went on to tour with popular Minneapolis rap group Atmosphere, backing up Slug and introducing his impressive freestyle abilities to the better part of the country, before launching a solo career with former Atmosphere DJ, DJ Abilities.

While the cause of his death has yet to be revealed, a Facebook page has been made to help Eyedea's mother raise funds towards his funeral expenses. Contributions can be made here.

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