Today in Hip-Hop: R.I.P. Big Glo (February 13, 1984 – April 9, 2014)

On this day, April 9, in hip-hop history...

2014: Chicago rapper Big Glo, cousin of Chief Keef, loses his life soon after getting his first real taste of success.

Chicago's drill scene was taking off, with Chief Keef at the center of the story, fueled by his extremely blunt lyrics and unforgiving perspectives on his life, which centered around survival and brotherhood. In an era where Keef, Lil Durk, Lil Reese, Young Chop and more were becoming high profile names out of Chicago, the magnifying glass was also on the city's history of gun and gang violence. Unfortunately, the rougher aspects of the city hit close to home for Keef, as his cousin, budding rapper Big Glo, was shot on April 9, 2014.

Big Glo's real name was Mario Hess, and was born in Illinois. At 9:45 pm on April 9, he was shot in Englewood, Chicago, the same neighborhood he grew up in. There were two shooters, and Glo was with his other cousin. Glo's attackers left over 24 shell casings, and Glo was struck at least 10 times. He was then rushed to the hospital, and died later in the night. Glo's cousin was also shot, but survived. The funeral service was held later in the month.

What makes Big Glo's demise even sadder is that his life was beginning to take a positive turn. As someone who spent a lot of time in the streets, Glo's music was leading him away from his past. Just weeks before his death, his collab with Chief Keef "Fuck Rehab" amongst his other music, caught the attention of Interscope Records, who then signed him.

Rest in peace, Big Glo.

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