Minnesota rapper Micheal Larsen–known as Eyedea–died unexpectedly at his home last weekend, according to his mother Kathy Averill. He was 28 years old.
The MC first gained attention at battle events as a teenager, defeating the competition at Ohio’s Scribble Jam, where he was crowned king in 1999. Larsen stepped into the national spotlight the following year as the winner of HBO’s “Blaze Battle.”
Larsen formed Eyedea & Abilities with friend and DJ Max Keltgen in 1998, and the duo would go on to release three full-length albums via indie label Rhymesayers. He also worked on several side projects, including Face Candy, Carbon Carousel and a series of poetry books co-written with family members.
The cause of death is unknown at this time. Averill has set up a fundraiser to cover the cost of memorial services. Fans can donate here.
Check out the video for E&A’s “Smile” after the jump.
TOPICS: News