Chicago R&B Singer Johnny P Dies at 44

Johnny P, the veteran Chicago singer who was most widely known for his notable appearances on Do or Die's hit single, "Po Pimp" and Scarface's "Smile" also featuring Tupac, has passed away. He was 44.

While additional details about Johnny's death were not immediately available, the singer's  family had called for prayers a few weeks ago, saying that he was on life support. Johnny P was widely considered a legend in Chicago, known for his ability to uniquely bring tracks to life as much as his vocal chops.

"For me, he was the only artist in the past two generations who could capture the true soul of Chicago in his voice," Newsense of legendary Chicago group, Psychodrama, told Rolling Out. "It was like music rose up through his feet from the Chicago pavements, up through his belly, and out from his mouth in a way we’ll never ever be able to experience again. I’m really, really going to miss my dear friend."

According to Wicked Entertainment, Johnny P was born and raised in Chicago began singing at the age of four, drawing inspiration from Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, and Sam Cooke. In 1989, Johnny P signed with Colombia Records and released his debut album, Connect the Dots. His sophomore album, The Next, was distributed 11 years later under Rap-A-Lot Records/Virgin Records. Johnny P went on to tour with Whitney Houston, The Jacksons, Michael Bolton, Regina Bell, MC Hammer and Jeffery Osborn. However, his biggest hits came when he sang on the hook for Do Or Die's "Po Pimp" in 1996, also appearing on Scarface's hit song, "Smile" featuring Tupac from his classic 1996 album, Untouchable. 

Do or Die and Lupe Fiasco are among the Chicago-based celebrities who have publicly expressed their grief about the singer's passing. Listen to some of Johnny P's music below. Our condolences to Johnny P's family.

Check out some of Johnny P's most memorable appearances below.

Do Or Doe "Po Pimp" featuring Johnny P

Twista "Yo Body" featuring Johnny P and Do or Die