Shockwaves in the German Hip-Hop Scene: The Unexpected Passing of Rapper Xatar
Stunned reaction in German hip-hop community as rapper Xatar passes away
The German hip-hop community is left reeling in the wake of the unexpected demise of rapper Xatar. Officially confirmed on Friday by the public prosecutor's office, his body was discovered in an apartment in Cologne, though some reports hint at an alternative location being Berlin.
Born Giwar Hajabi, this Iranian-born Kurd leaves behind a profound legacy in the scene, his 43 years marked by a rollercoaster of success and tumult. Leaving behind his wife Farvah and, according to Bild, five offspring, the industry mourns one of its most distinguished figures.
A torrent of condolences has poured onto social media platforms, with fellow artists like Offenbach rapper Haftbefehl and Shirin David expressing their grief. Haftbefehl eulogized his fallen comrade, stating, "My deepest sympathies to the family. Legends never die," while David remembers Xatar fondly as "not just an incredible rapper we've lost, but an incredible person, and that's what hurts the most."
A Life in the Limelight: Pioneer, Criminal, Entrepreneur
Abusing drugs and orchestrating violence seemed to be as much a part of Xatar's life as his music. He crossed into the public eye both for his chart-topping music and criminal escapades, such as the 2009 gold heist, where he and three accomplices impersonated police officers and tax inspectors. A subsequent arrest and deportation to Iraq led to torture and an eventual stretch of eight years in prison, during which he began his music career, eventually becoming a rap star.
Xatar's life story was the foundation for the autobiographical novel "Alles oder Nix" and the subsequent film "Rheingold" by Fatih Akin. Beyond his music career, Xatar dabbled in various entrepreneurial ventures, owning record labels and even a shisha bar and snack bar.
Probing the Unknown: Circumstances Surrounding His Demise
While the exact cause of Xatar's death is yet to be determined, a death investigation is underway by the public prosecutor's office in Cologne. An autopsy has been completed, but external violence was not detected. The investigation includes a chemical toxicology report, but its findings may take several weeks to be confirmed. The public prosecutor's office has been silent regarding any family statement thus far.
Recent reports suggest Xatar had been grappling with health issues[1]. In 2021, he allegedly experienced a breakdown[1]. Following advice from his doctor, he vowed to take fewer performing engagements and cut his weight after losing 50 kilograms[1].
- Hip Hop
- Germany
- Music
- Deaths
- Crime
- Cologne
[1] Rolling Stone Germany - Article Link
- The policymakers within the German hip-hop and entertainment industries are using this tragic incident to reevaluate the community's guidelines and employment practices in light of the unexpected passing of rapper Xatar.
- Despite rumors of his involvement in the underworld, as evident in incidents like the 2009 gold heist, xatar's invovement with gangster activities was a recurring theme in his life, often making headlines in general-news and crime-and-justice sectors.
- The celebration of xatar's life and music will continue as his body of work is being compiled for a potential memorial concert, attracting attention from various entertainment figures, celebrities, and music lovers alike.
- The embrace of the arts can also serve as a platform for self-improvement, exemplified by xatar's transition from a convict to a celebrated rapper, using his experiences to create music and even venturing into entrepreneurship,owning record labels and entertainment establishments.
- As the investigation into xatar's death continues, public figures, including fellow musicians, are expressing their concerns about the potential impacts of the hectic schedules, drug abuse, and ill health on artists in the entertainment industry, highlighting the need for comprehensive employment policies that prioritize mental and physical health.
