Hostyle, a founding member of Queens, New York Hip-Hop group Screwball, has died. R.A. The Rugged Man, Cormega, and other collaborators of the man born Frederick Ivey have acknowledged his passing. He was reportedly 47 years old. His cause of death has not been made public at this time.
With roots dating back to the 1980s, Screwball gained its greatest recognition with 2000’s Y2K: The Album. Released through Tommy Boy Records/Hydra Entertainment, the album by Hostyle, Blaq Poet, and KL boasted production by DJ Premier, Marley Marl, Godfather Don, and Pete Rock. Singles included the controversial “Who Shot Rudy?” and the celebratory “H-O-S-T-Y-L-E,” which was released as a video. Two additional group albums followed.
Hostyle also released a solo LP in 2004, One Eyed Maniac. In addition to Screwball, the LP featured R.A. The Rugged Man and Big Noyd. Hostyle also appeared on albums by Mobb Deep, Beatnuts, DJ Muggs, Molemen, and ‘Mega.
In 2008, KL passed away from an asthma attack. Blaq Poet would become one of the early artists on DJ Premier’s Year Round Records label.
Ambrosia For Heads extends condolences to Blaq Poet, Solo, and the family, friends, and fans of Hostyle.
