Young Noble, Outlawz Rapper & Tupac Collaborator, Passes Away At 47

Young Noble, Outlawz rapper and close Tupac collaborator, has passed away at 47. Hip-hop mourns a powerful voice gone too soon.
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🕊️ Remembering Young Noble

Young Noble, a respected member of the legendary hip-hop group Outlawz and longtime collaborator of Tupac Shakur, has passed away at the age of 47.

According to reports, Noble, born Rufus Lee Cooper III, died by suicide on Friday, July 4, in Atlanta.

His death was confirmed by a representative to PEOPLE, while TMZ was the first to report the heartbreaking details.

As of now, the Atlanta Police Department has not released a public statement.

🙏 Tributes Pour In From The Hip-Hop Community

Damien “Big Percy” Roderick was one of the first to share the news online, writing:

“Damn @outlawznation @theoutlawzofficial REST EASY HOMIE @young_noble wish I could change our last call we had DAMN PRAYERS UP.”

Snoop Dogg, who shared the Death Row Records legacy with both Tupac and Noble, also spoke out:

“DAMN Mental health is real,” he wrote, adding Shakur’s track “The Good Die Young,” which featured Outlawz.

E.D.I. Mean, Noble’s longtime friend and fellow Outlawz member, posted a raw and emotional tribute:

“Today I got some of the worst and unexpected news imaginable. My brother and partner for over 30 years took his life this morning. Rest in Power Rufus Young Noble Cooper.”

He asked for privacy during this devastating time and reminded fans, “Mental illness is a real battle being fought by so many. CHECK ON UR FOLKS!”

🎤 Young Noble’s Legacy in Hip-Hop

Young Noble officially joined Outlawz in early 1996—he was the last member personally selected by Tupac before the rap icon’s untimely death.

Noble appeared on multiple tracks on The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory, including the iconic “Hail Mary.”

Beyond his work with the group, Noble released several solo projects that resonated deeply with fans, including Noble Justice and Son of God.

His lyrics often spoke to faith, struggle, and perseverance—reflecting the duality of pain and hope that defined his journey.

🕯️ Final Words of Faith

Just days before his passing, Noble’s final Instagram post on June 22 felt like a message for everyone who may be struggling in silence:

You’re not reading this by accident. This is your confirmation. You’re going to make it. No matter what it looks like right now.

God is going to send blessings, solutions, healing, love, and positive change your way. So hold on, be strong and don’t give up. You are next in line for your miracle.

See the original post below.

Those words now feel even more poignant and powerful—a reminder that even those who inspire others may be carrying heavy burdens behind the scenes.

💔 Mental Health Is Real

Noble’s death is another heartbreaking reminder of the silent battles many people face.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, emotional distress, or substance use, help is available.

📱 Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org, anytime—24/7.

Rest in power, Young Noble. Your words, your truth, and your impact will never be forgotten.

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