Chris Kelly, Kris Kross rapper, dies at 34 in Atlanta hospital

Back in the 90s if you didn’t know the monster hit, “Jump” by Kris Kross you weren’t a true fan of music. Now one half of the amazing group, Chris Kelly, is gone forever! How tragic!

Chris Kelly Dies In Atlanta

Chris, who was made famous for wearing his clothing backwards and having one of the greatest pop hits of all time was found unconscious in his home on May 1 and pronounced dead around 5:30 p.m. ET at the south campus of the Atlanta Medical Center, according to FOX 5 in Atlanta.

Chris’ family released a statement that referenced his unique trendsetting fashion sense and more importantly, his kind nature:

It is with deep sadness that we announce that our beloved Chris Kelly has passed away on May 1. To millions of fans worldwide, he was the trendsetting, backwards pants-wearing one-half of Kris Kross who loved making music. But to us, he was just Chris — the kind, generous and fun-loving life of the party. Though he was only with us a short time, we feel blessed to have been able to share some incredible moments with him. His legacy will live on through his music, and we will forever love him.

There are currently no answers on the cause of his death. Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office said an autopsy is planned for Thursday, May 2.

Chris Kelly’s Legacy

Chris, whose stage name was Mac Daddy, formed Kris Kross with his rap partner Chris Smith, and both became instant stars in 1992 with the epic jam “Jump.” The song was a Billboard Top 100 smash charting at #1 for eight consecutive weeks!

The multiplatinum selling group was discovered when they were both 13 years old by hip hop legend Jermaine Dupri.

UPDATE: Drugs May Have Caused Chris Kelly’s Death

“It appears it may have been a possible drug overdose,” Cpl. Kay Lester, a spokeswoman for the Fulton County police has told the AP.

According to Lester, the police were called to Kelly’s house around 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday.

So, HollywoodLifers, join us as we share our thoughts and prayers with Chris’s family.

Listen To Their Biggest Hit – “Jump”

One of the best rap songs of all time, “Jump” will be remembered forever. May Chris rest in peace!

Follow live reaction and updates here.

May 02, 2013