Wu-Tang Clan and Oliver 'Power' Grant's family have revealed that he died of pancreatic cancer.
In a joint statement published on Instagram on Sunday, Grant's family and the hip-hop group revealed that the businessman and producer died on Tuesday 24 February, following "a courageous and hard-fought battle with pancreatic cancer". He was 55.
"A true fighter until the end, he was surrounded by his mother, his children, his family and his closest friends," they stated, before going on to describe Grant as "a visionary force, a pillar of the Wu-Tang family, and a global architect of culture".
They continued, "It was the honor of his life to pour his love, wisdom and brilliance into his family and his community. His impact was singular; there will never be another to take his place."
Grant was an early financial backer and a close associate of the iconic hip-hop collective. He executive produced all of the Gravel Pit hitmakers' albums and founded and served as CEO of their Wu Wear clothing line.
The Grant and Wu-Tang families went on to thank their fans for the "overwhelming outpouring of love and support from around the world" and added, "We send peace and blessings upon his soul. Power will always be loved, and his legacy will forever remain."
They shared that the wake will take place on 13 March and the funeral will be held on 14 March in the New York City area. The exact locations will be announced in due course.
Several Wu-Tang members paid tribute to Grant on social media following his death, with Method Man writing, "Paradise my Brother safe Travels!! #pookie #power Bruh I am not ok," and GZA commenting, "We couldn't have done it without him. Wu wouldn't have come to fruition without Power. His passing is a profound loss to us all. My deepest condolences to the fam."
Wu-Tang Clan, also featuring RZA, Ghostface Killah, Raekwon, Inspectah Deck, U-God and Masta Killa, are among the nominees for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this year. The inductees will be announced in April.
