Rapper Capital STEEZ, a rising hip-hop artist comprising the Pro Era rap crew helmed by Joey Bada$$, passed away today.

STEEZ, born Jamal Dewar, died early this morning, on Christmas Eve, at the age of 19. His death comes just days after the release of Pro Era's 'PEEP: The Aprocalypse' mixtape. The rapper appeared on six tracks off the tape: 'Like Water,' ''Run or Fly,' 'Interlude 47,' 'Bun N Cheese,' 'Last Cypher' and 'K.I.N.G.S.'

Next year, Bada$$ is set to take the stage at the 2013 Paid Dues Festival and it's likely STEEZ, as part of the Pro Era crew, would've been spitting bars right by his side.

He sent a cryptic message via Twitter last night (Dec. 23) reading "The End." Joey Bada$$ also took to Twitter today to share the tragic news of his rhyming cohort and friend:

Listen to Capital STEEZ in 'Like Water' Feat. Joey Bada$$ & CJ Fly

More From TheDrop.fm