OG Maco dies at 32 after ‘self-inflicted gunshot wound’
Atlanta rapper OG Maco, known for his 2014 viral hit ‘U Guessed It,’ has died at the age of 32.
Born Benedict Chiajulam Ihesiba Jr. on April 23, 1992, in College Park, Georgia, Maco passed away on December 26, 2024, in Los Angeles, California.
Maco’s rise to fame was propelled by his energetic track ‘U Guessed It,’ which gained significant attention on social media platforms and peaked at No. 90 on the Billboard Hot 100.
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The song’s success led to a remix featuring 2 Chainz and earned Maco a spot on XXL magazine’s 2015 Freshman Class, highlighting him as one of the industry’s promising new artists.
Throughout his career, Maco collaborated with notable artists, including Migos, Gucci Mane, and Diplo. He was also the founder of the hip-hop collective OGG, through which he discovered then-unknown producer OG Parker.
In 2021, he released his studio album The God of Rage, further showcasing his versatility and commitment to his craft.
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Maco faced significant health challenges in recent years. In 2016, he was involved in a serious car accident that resulted in multiple skull fractures, cracked vertebrae, a broken orbital, and the loss of his right eye.
Despite these injuries, he continued to produce music and perform. In 2019, he was diagnosed with necrotizing fasciitis, a rare flesh-eating disease, which led to further health complications.
On December 12, 2024, Maco was hospitalized after sustaining a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, The New York Post reports. He spent two weeks in a coma before succumbing to his injuries on December 26.
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His family confirmed his passing, expressing their grief and highlighting his resilience and creativity.
His family said (via Deadline): “With heavy hearts, we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of our beloved Ben, known to the world as OG Maco.
“He passed away on Thursday after his condition took a turn for the worse. His life was a testament to resilience, creativity, and boundless love.
“Through his music, passion, and unwavering spirit, he touched so many lives and left a lasting impact.”
Maco’s impact on the music industry is remembered through his innovative contributions and the artists he mentored.
His family has requested privacy during this difficult time and has invited fans to share their condolences and memories of the late rapper.
