Hip-Hop Pioneer Afrika Bambaataa Reportedly Dead at 67

Afrika Bambaataa, one of the foundational figures in Hip-Hop culture, has reportedly passed away at the age of 67, according to TMZ.

The news was also shared by Hassan Campbell, who previously made allegations against Bambaataa, accusing him of child sexual abuse. Those accusations had cast a long shadow over Bambaataa’s legacy in recent years, sparking widespread debate within the Hip-Hop community.

Afrika Bambaataa was widely recognized as a pioneer of the culture, playing a major role in shaping early Hip-Hop through music, DJing, and the founding of the Universal Zulu Nation.

As news of his reported passing circulates, reactions are expected to be mixed — with many acknowledging his influence on Hip-Hop while others continue to grapple with the serious allegations tied to his name.

Afrika Bambaataa, a hip-hop pioneer who was accused of sexual abuse, has died, TMZ reports. He was 67 https://t.co/DRaegu5HVw

— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) April 9, 2026

Hassan Campbell Claims Afrika Bambaataa has passed away.

Campbell previously accused Bambaataa of child sexual abuse. pic.twitter.com/tjVEeYhxkP

— HotNewHipHop (@HotNewHipHop) April 9, 2026