Rufus “Young Noble” Cooper, a longtime member of Tupac Shakur’s legendary group the Outlawz, has died by suicide, according to a heartfelt statement shared Friday (July 4) by a fellow group member.
The news was announced on Instagram, where the veteran rapper expressed his grief: “Today I got some of the worst and unexpected news imaginable,” he wrote. “My brother and partner for over 30 years took his life this morning. Rest in Power Rufus Young Noble Cooper. I obviously am in no shape to talk about this right now so PLEASE give his family and I some time to process this.”
He also emphasized the importance of mental health, adding: “Mental illness is a real battle being fought by so many. CHECK ON UR FOLKS!”
Young Noble was widely respected in the hip-hop community, rising to prominence in the 1990s as a key member of the Outlawz, the group formed by Tupac Shakur during his Death Row Records era. Known for his raw lyrical style and loyalty to Shakur’s vision, Young Noble remained active in music over the decades, releasing solo work and collaborative projects with fellow Outlawz members.
Fans and fellow artists have taken to social media to pay tribute, many echoing the call for greater awareness and support around mental health issues.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or struggling with mental health, help is available. Contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free, confidential support 24/7.
