Instagram/Afrika Bambaataa Music Hip-hop pioneer Afrika Bambaataa dies at 68. Remembering the legendary DJ's foundational role in shaping the genre's sound and culture. April 11, 2026 AceShowbiz - The hip-hop community mourns the loss of Afrika Bambaataa, the legendary rapper and DJ who passed away at 68 due to complications from prostate cancer. His death was confirmed on Thursday in Pennsylvania, according to TMZ. Afrika Bambaataa, born Lance Taylor, was a foundational figure in hip-hop culture, credited with shaping the genre's early sound and social impact.