The Detroit hip hop scene lost a legend this week with the passing of Lichelle Marie Laws, known professionally as BO$$.

Laws, who rose to prominence in the early 1990s, died at the age of 54. The cause of death has not been officially released, but Laws had been battling kidney disease for several years.

Born and raised in Detroit, Laws emerged as a powerful voice in the city’s vibrant rap scene. Signed by Def Jam Recordings in 1993, she became one of the first female rappers on the label. Her debut album, “Born Gangstaz”, was a critical and commercial success, with two tracks reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Rap Tracks chart.

Boss’s music was known for its raw honesty, social commentary, and fierce lyricism. She paved the way for a generation of female rappers, and countless artists who followed felt her influence. Outside of music, Laws was a passionate advocate for Detroit’s youth, mentoring aspiring musicians and encouraging them to pursue their dreams.

Tributes have poured in from across the music industry. Rapper Bun B wrote on Instagram, “Lichelle Marie Laws, AKA Boss. One of the best female MCs and a dear friend. Rest in peace to my big sis”.

Eminem joined the ranks, paying BO$$ his respect:

Bo$$ rep’d the D so well as a pioneer. Such a talented MC. RIP!!!

Lichelle BO$$ Laws will be remembered as a pioneering force in hip-hop, a fierce voice for her community, and an inspiration to countless artists.