DJ Polo – best known as one half of the Kool G Rap & DJ Polo duo – has died.
Polo – real name Thomas Pough – was part of one of the more famous duos in early hip-hop history, and also a member of the iconic Juice Crew collective. News of his death was shared by his children online.
Taking to his official Instagram account on Monday (July 29), they shared news of his passing.
“It is with a heavy heart we mourn the loss of my father, the incredible DJ Polo. He was not only a legend to the hip hop community but also to his family and we celebrate his life and legacy now and forever,” the statement read.
“We would like to thank you all for your beautiful words and tributes – seeing the impact he made has been overwhelming and we are so grateful… Thank you all again for your condolences and for respecting the family’s privacy at this time. We miss you Cuzmo.”
Teaming up with Kool G Rap, the two first made a name for themselves on the hip-hop scene with their breakthrough debut album ‘Road To The Riches’ in 1989, which was then followed up by sophomore LP ‘Wanted: Dead Or Alive’ in 1990, and ‘Live And Let Die’ in 1992.
While they split in 1993 to focus on solo careers, the group did share a compilation album in 1996 which was titled ‘Rated XXX’. Polo went on to drop his debut solo album, ‘Polo’s Playhouse’ in 1998.
Following news of Pough’s death, Kool G Rap paid tribute online by sharing a heartfelt sentiment. “R.I.P. to a dear friend and a Brother from another Household He is a Legend to Hip Hop and Juice Crew history. DJ Polo! May Light from the Highest be upon him,” he wrote.
I lost another friend yesterday.. DJ Polo… DJ for legendary @TheRealKoolGRap 🙏 Life is precious. pic.twitter.com/oK6m5x2P8G
— ICE T (@FINALLEVEL) July 28, 2024
This ones a tough one. I admired Dj Polo as a @hiphopgods PEer. @CHINOXL was my brother in rhyme & Art. He encouraged my graphics forward. We exchanged art books. He looked out to protect my lyric books better. He supported my events. We supported his music & 🙏🏿rt pic.twitter.com/UlCaIx70ke
— Chuck D (@MrChuckD) July 30, 2024
Rest In Power, DJ Polo. pic.twitter.com/S0MA8W4jh4
— The G-Listed (@theglisted) July 31, 2024
Ice-T also took to social media to pay respects, writing: I lost another friend yesterday. DJ Polo… DJ for legendary @TheRealKoolGRap…Life is precious”, while Eric B added: “My brother DJ POLO we had some great times you will never be forgotten GODS speed”. Find more tributes above.
