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Ka, whoThe New Yorkeronce called the last underground rapper, has died.
Born Kaseem Ryan, news broke of the artists death on his official Instagram page.
Ka came up as a rapper in New York in the early 90s.
He was part of the group Natural Elements, leaving right before they got signed, and duo Nightbreed.
In 1999, Ryan became a firefighter.
He quit rapping altogether in 2003.
Ka remained a firefighter during this time, even making captain.
I have a full time job and I work all the time.
I venture to keep that kinda low, he toldComplexin 2013.
I just have a job.
It aint my calling or nothing.
Its just my job.
But I love my job because it gives me the freedom to do the art.
The New YorkPosttried to sensationalize Kas so-called double life in 2016, but it didnt slow his production.
Vulture ratedThe Nights GambitandThe Thief Next to Jesusas among the best albums in 2013 and 2024, respectively.
He is survived by his wife, mother, and sister.
A post shared by Ka (@brownsvilleka)
