DJ Khaled co-writer August 08 dies aged 31
Anish Vij
Featured Image Credit: Scott Dudelson/Getty Images
DJ Khaled's co-writer August 08 has died at the age of 31.
The singer, songwriter, and producer has credits on DJ Khaled’s 'I’m the One' featuring Justin Bieber, Quavo, Chance the Rapper, and Lil Wayne, along with Bieber's iconic hit 'Sorry'.
It was announced on Tuesday (29 August) that the recording artist - whose birth name is Ray Jacobs - passed away.
Def Jam disclosed the news to Variety with a statement that read: “The entire Def Jam family mourns the tragic loss of Ray ‘August 08’ Jacobs.
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"A brilliant songwriter, an accomplished musician and a singular artist, August will remain in our memory as a beloved colleague and friend. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones.”
88rising, the music label who represents Jacobs, wrote on Instagram: "It is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of Ray Jacobs, also known as AUGUST 08.
"RIP August the kindest and most talented genius you will be missed beyond words.
"Thank you for being an amazing mentor and a steadfast friend through all these years.
"We are forever grateful to you and the joy you brought in every room, through every song.
"Your energy, guidance and care gave so much inspiration and strength that will be carried on always.
"Thank you for helping us be brave. We will miss you so much, love you August."
Jacobs' mother also commented on the post: "This is August mom thank you all so much. We will be doing something great for his Fans Love Mama."
Someone, who claimed they worked with the singer, also wrote: "August, from the moment you walked in my classroom I was in so much shock.
"Getting to know and talk with you has inspired me so much, and you were one of the main voices i listened to, to keep me going in my creative endeavors.
"Thank you for everything you've done for 88rising and sticking true to the message as to why 88rising was created in the first place.
"You have done so much for the culture and we seriously can't thank you enough. You are one of the MAIN reasons why 88rising is where they are today. your voice has inspired so many people. REST IN POWER RAY JACOBS."
Another person shared a heartwarming story, adding: "During peak Covid lockdowns August gave me, a business student who had just finished his freshman year, a short opportunity to watch him work and help him with some projects.
"I got to see him work on a song for the Shang-Chi soundtrack that never made it in, and work with other artists.
"All I did was reply to an instagram story he posted and he gave me the opportunity.
"Even this month alone i put him in touch with a friend of mine who’s a student studying linguistics and he let her do a VO for a song for a popular artist, and he was going to call another friend of mine two days ago, a recent music industry studies graduate, to ask him about being a studio assistant.
"I never knew him super well, but his willingness to always give opportunities like these to students and people with eagerness but no experience speaks volumes to his generosity. Him and his music will greatly be missed."
No cause of death has been given.