According to Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn “Rich Slave,” Davis, Young Dolph, the rapper behind albums like “CJ” died in a tragic shooting in Memphis, Tennessee, on Wednesday (Nov. 17th) at the age of 36.
Adolph Robert Thornton, Jr., the rapper’s true name, was apparently buying cookies at Makeda’s Homemade Butter Cookies in Memphis when he was shot.
“This shooting is another example of the senseless gun violence we are experiencing locally and nationwide. Our hearts go out to the Thornton family and all who are affected by this horrific act of violence,” Davis said.
According to Davis, no suspect information is available at this time.
“All of us at APA are shocked and deeply saddened by the sudden and tragic loss of our dear friend and client, Young Dolph,” a representative of the management company said in a statement to Variety. “The world has lost an icon, a great man and beloved artist who has been taken too soon. His dedication, drive, hard work and loyalty to all those around him always came first and he will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this most difficult time. “
Young Dolph, a Chicago native who grew up in Memphis, released his debut album, “King of Memphis” in 2016. He had a string of successes, including “Blue Diamonds,” and “RNB” which featured Megan Thee Stallion. “Rich Slave,” his fifth studio album, debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 list in 2020.
He was almost killed in a gun incident in Hollywood in 2017. After suffering three gunshot wounds, he spent weeks in the hospital.
“I’ve been targeted since I was 17, 18, 19,” Young Dolph told The Guardian about the incident in a 2018 interview. “I just knew that I was good.”
He added that he wasn’t “a person that lives in fear.”
Young Dolph received tributes from fellow musicians and fans after his death was announced.
“God bless Dolph ? independent Memphis rapper born in chicago. loved by millions of ppl,” Chance the Rapper tweeted. “Always showed love everytime I seen him this is tragic God bless his family man.”
“R.I.P. to my friend Dolph. this broke my heart,” wrote Gucci Mane.
