Atlanta Rapper Grip Plyaz Dies From Cancer, Killer Mike, Phonte and More React [PHOTO]

The Atlanta hip-hop community has lost an indie pioneer. Rapper Grip Plyaz has died after a years-long battle with a rare form of cancer.

Grip was a fixture in Atlanta's underground hip-hop and arts scenes, inspiring many of the newer acts that have risen in recent years. He also worked with Trinidad James, Killer Mike, Yelawolf and Backbone, and rocked popular festivals including AC3 and SXSW.

He released several projects, including 2005’s CUMGITSLUM, 2008’s GRIP HOP, 2012’s Purp, Wind, And Fire, and 2014's ReTurnt to Sender EP.  His career was stamped by his most popular singles, "Die in Yo P---" and "F--- That Hipster S---" which was featured on Killer Mike's 2009 compilation, Underground Atlanta.

Grip was diagnosed with stage three pleomorphic sarcoma in June 2015, and friends set up a GoFundMe page for the rapper. The initial goal was $2,500 but it exceeded $17,000 with the support of the local hip-hop community. After a nearly two-year fight against the rare form of cancer, it spread to other parts of his body. Earlier this week, he suffered from cardiac arrest, which left him in a coma. He passed away today (June 8).

With news of his passing, the hip-hop community has expressed their sadness, touching on Grip's impact.

Killer Mike went on his Instagram paid tribute to the late rapper.

"Atl Rap underground legend and one of the many backbones the Current Atl art & Music scene has transitioned to be with the ancestors," he wrote in part. "His name #GripPlyaz his claim to fame #F---ThatHipsterS--- and a treasure trove of underground classics! He was a drunken unicorn staple and lived in the music, art & street wear world daily. We loved him and he knows."

He concluded, "Grip I'm glad u knew we love u while u were here and since energy does not die we know u are with the ancestors watching out for us still."

Check out more reactions below. We want to send our heartfelt condolences to Grip Plyaz's family and friends. May he rest in peace.