LOS ANGELES, USA — Rapper OG Maco, known for his viral hit “U Guessed It”, has died at the age of 32 after complications from a self-inflicted gunshot wound earlier this month.
His family confirmed his passing on Friday, December 27, 2024 in a heartfelt statement shared on social media.
“With heavy hearts, we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of our beloved Ben, known to the world as OG Maco,” the statement read.
“His life was a testament to resilience, creativity and boundless love. Through his music, passion and unwavering spirit, he touched so many lives and left a lasting impact.”
OG Maco, born Benedict Chiajulam Ihesiba Jr., was hospitalised on December 12 after a neighbour in Los Angeles called 911 upon hearing gunfire inside a home.
Responders found the Atlanta-born artist with a gunshot wound to the head and a firearm nearby.
He was rushed into emergency surgery and initially stabilised, but his condition deteriorated while he was in a coma.
TMZ reported that doctors faced challenges obtaining reliable brain scans and eliminating toxins from his system.
His condition eventually worsened, and he passed away late Thursday night.
OG Maco’s life was marked by immense physical and emotional challenges.
In July 2016, he suffered severe injuries in a traffic collision, including multiple skull fractures, cracked vertebrae, a broken orbital, and heart palpitations, narrowly avoiding the loss of his right eye.
Three years later, in 2019, he was diagnosed with necrotizing fasciitis, a flesh-eating disease that left much of his facial skin disfigured after a minor rash went improperly treated.
The condition profoundly affected his mental health, leading to a prolonged battle with depression.
Musical Legacy
OG Maco rose to prominence in 2014 with his breakout single “U Guessed It”, which became a viral sensation and cemented his place in the new wave of hip-hop.
In 2015, he was featured in XXL’s prestigious “Freshman Class,” a recognition of his influence and potential as an emerging artist.
Known for his raw energy and unfiltered lyrics, Maco was celebrated for pushing boundaries in his music and speaking candidly about his struggles.
Reflections on His Life
Beyond his music, OG Maco’s life was marked by resilience and creativity.
Friends, fans, and fellow artists have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of his talent and impact.
His death serves as a somber reminder of the challenges faced by artists navigating fame, personal struggles, and mental health battles.
OG Maco’s legacy lives on through his music, leaving an indelible mark on the hip-hop community and fans worldwide.
Services in his honour are expected to be announced in the coming days.
