DJ Timbuck2 Dies at Age 34, Hip-Hop Community Reacts
The Chicago music community is mourning the loss of their beloved local hero DJ Timbuck2. The WGCI radio personality passed away today (Dec. 19) after a long bout with cancer. He was 34 years old.
DJ Timbuck2, whose real name is Timothy Jones, was a fixture in the Chicago music scene and a member of the Treated Crew. According to Fake Shore Drive, he came up under the tutelage of The Twilite Tone (interning for Tone and No I.D. at WHPK) and in 2004, DJ Timbuck2 was given his own mix show at WGCI at the age of 21.
With his program, Go iLL Radio, DJ Timbuck2 championed local artists and gave them a platform to showcase their music. The DJ worked with budding Chi-City rappers like Vic Mensa, Lil Reese, Rockie Fresh and others. He also toured with fellow rhymers Kanye West, Lupe Fiasco and Common.
In 2009, DJ Timbuck2 teamed up Fake Shore Drive and the Cool Kids to release a mixtape that exclusively feature Chicago rappers. The collection boasted tracks from Bump J, Mikkey Halsted, GLC, West, Fiasco and more.
"If I was never on radio, I would still be happy because I'm doing what I love to do," he told Ruby Hornet in 2010. "When I get behind those [turntables] I feel the same way I did the first time I did it. I get that burning feeling inside; that excitement. That's all I really need."
Several prominent hip-hoppers went on Twitter to express their condolences to the beloved Chicago DJ. Veteran rap producer No I.D. tweeted, "Damn. That really hurts. Gonna miss my brother @DJTIMBUCK2. Damn. #Speechless." Rapper Rockie Fresh wrote on his timeline, "RIP @DJTIMBUCK2. Gave me my first radio play and believed when no one else did. True Chicago Legend. We will miss You."
We want to send our heartfelt condolences to the family of DJ Timbuck2. May he rest in peace.