Prodigy, one-half of one of hip-hop's most acclaimed groups, Mobb Deep (alongside Havoc), has passed away, his reps confirmed June 20.

According to XXL, the 42-year-old was hospitalized in Las Vegas several days ago due to "complications caused by a sickle cell anemia crisis." Prodigy, whose real name is Albert Johnson, has battled the disease since birth.

“It is with extreme sadness and disbelief that we confirm the death of our dear friend Albert Johnson, better known to millions of fans as Prodigy of legendary NY rap duo Mobb Deep. Prodigy was hospitalized a few days ago in Vegas after a Mobb Deep performance for complications caused by a sickle cell anemia crisis," a rep said in a statement. "As most of his fans know, Prodigy battled the disease since birth. The exact causes of death have yet to be determined. We would like to thank everyone for respecting the family’s privacy at this time."

Mobb Deep shot to hip-hop superstardom with the release of their classic 1995 album, The Infamous. With rap staples like "Shook Ones" and "Quiet Storm" they paved a distinctive path in hip-hop, known for their raw, gritty rhymes.

In 2000, Prodigy forged a successful solo career with his H.N.I.C. installments and his collaborative projects with the Alchemist. He was also a successful author, having penned his 2011 autobiography, My Infamous Life: The Autobiography of Mobb Deep’s Prodigy. In 2016, Prodigy released his first cookbook of prison recipes called Commissary Kitchen: My Infamous Prison Cookbook.

Nas announced the news of Prodigy's passing on Instagram earlier this afternoon. Since the news broke, fans have expressed their sadness and grief over the loss. Take a look at the reactions below to the loss of a hip-hop legend.

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