Pioneering US hip-hop artist Afrika Bambaataa dies at 68

The National Times - Pioneering US hip-hop artist Afrika Bambaataa dies at 68

CULTURE 09.04.2026

Pioneering US hip-hop artist Afrika Bambaataa dies at 68 / Photo: © Getty Images North America/Getty Images/AFP/File

Groundbreaking US hip-hop artist and DJ Afrika Bambaataa, known for his 1982 hit "Planet Rock," has died at age 68, his former record label said Thursday.

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"With his passing, we reflect on his contributions to the genre and broader culture, which continue to this day," Tommy Boy Records said in an Instagram post alongside a picture of Bambaataa.

Celebrity news site TMZ, citing unnamed sources, reported that Bambaataa died from complications of cancer at about 3:00 am (0700 GMT) Thursday in Pennsylvania.

R.Hawkins--TNT

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The National Times - Pioneering US hip-hop artist Afrika Bambaataa dies at 68