2014 has been a great year complete with good music, innovative artists and wild surprises. However, it's also the same year in which we lost a number of lauded musical creators and respected public figures. These stars not only made a name for themselves in their respective careers but also impacted the worlds of hip-hop and R&B in many ways.

From an award-winning poet who always reminded us to rise up against adversity to a drummer who created iconic beats sampled by more than a few MCs, these creatives helped shape how we view (and listen to) what's happening in society.

As we inch closer to the end of the year and embark on 2015, The Boombox takes a look back at a few special people who made an impression on the lives of your favorite rappers and singers. Check out Stars We Lost in 2014.

More From TheBoombox