Shockwaves in the German Hip-Hop Scene: The Tragic Death of Rapper Xatar
Rapper Xatar's demise leaves German hip-hop community in mourning
Get ready to ride the turbulent waves of emotions as we dive into the unexpected demise of one of the most significant figures in the German hip-hop scene – the infamous gangsta rapper, Xatar. The news of his passing sent shockwaves throughout the industry and beyond, leaving many grappling for words.
Xatar, whose real name was Giwar Hajabi, was found deceased in an apartment in Cologne on Thursday night, as confirmed by the public prosecutor's office on Friday. Originally hailing from Iran, the Kurdish artist turned 43 and left behind his wife Farvah and, according to Bild newspaper, five children.
The past few days have seen an outpouring of emotions on social media from fellow German hip-hop artists, such as Haftbefehl and Shirin David. "Words fail me, my brother. I hope you're in a better place now. My deepest condolences to the family. Legends never die," Haftbefehl shared on Instagram. Shirin David added, "We love you Giwar forever," and even posted an emotional Instagram story about the countless hours spent in the car listening to his music.
The life of Xatar was riddled with controversy and drama, mirrored in his music and criminal activities. In 2009, Xatar and three accomplices robbed a gold transporter while disguising themselves as police officers and tax inspectors, eventually escaping to Iraq. There, he was arrested, allegedly tortured, and subsequently deported back to Germany, where he was sentenced to eight years in prison, serving approximately five.
Leveraging his hard-earned street cred, Xatar launched his music career while incarcerated, rising to stardom in the rap scene. His albums reached the top of the charts, and his larger-than-life persona embodied the image of the ruthless gangster. His tumultuous life was immortalized in the autobiographical novel "Alles oder Nix" and later adapted into the film "Rheingold" by Fatih Akin. Besides his successful music career, Xatar also managed several record labels, enjoyed entrepreneurial ventures in running a shisha bar and a snack bar, and even made an appearance in the 2007 film "Kebab Connection."
The circumstances leading up to Xatar's death remain unclear. No external signs of violence were found, and investigations, including an autopsy, are ongoing. Rumors have circulated claiming that he may have passed away in Berlin instead of Cologne[1][2][4], but these have yet to be confirmed. An official statement regarding the cause of death is still being withheld due to ongoing toxicology reports, which may take several weeks to return reliable results[5].
In recent years, there were rumors and reports suggesting that Xatar struggled with health issues, including a 2021 health breakdown, followed by a promise to take a weekly day off and shed weight due to health concerns[3]. However, the public has not been privy to any conclusive details regarding any long-term health struggles that may have contributed to his untimely demise.
As the hip-hop community grapples with this loss, one thing is certain: Xatar's legend lives on. Till we meet again.
Sources:1. ntv.de2. gut/spot3. Rolling Stone4. Berliner Morgenpost5. HipHop.de
- The German hip-hop community, including artists like Haftbefehl and Shirin David, have expressed their grief and shock over the passing of Xatar.
- Xatar, a renowned figure in the German hip-hop scene, was known for his criminal activities and larger-than-life persona as a gangster rapper.
- Despite health issues and a 2021 health breakdown, the cause of Xatar's death remains unclear, with investigations ongoing.
- Xatar's life and career were marked by controversy, entrepreneurial ventures, and success in the music industry, with several record labels, businesses, and even a film adaptation of his autobiographical novel.
