The hip-hop community—and beyond—continue to remember Chris Lighty. Yesterday (August 30), the Violator Management founder was found dead of an apparent suicide in his Riverdale, Bronx apartment at 11:33 a.m. with "self-inflicted gunshot wounds" to the head, according to the New York Police Department. He was 44. Having played a key role in molding the careers of superstars such as 50 Cent, LL Cool J, Mariah Carey, Diddy, Busta Rhymes, Missy Elliott and more, artists and execs continue to remember the Bronx native and music industry legend. Here, the likes of 50, Diddy, Mariah Carey and more remember Chris Lighty.

50 Cent

“Chris has been an important part of my business and personal growth for a decade. He was a good friend and advisor who helped me develop as an artist and businessman. My prayers are with his family. He will be greatly missed.”

"Damn my man is gone, I can't believe it. I woke up on the plane and speed dialed him. This is nuts Chris was good guy.SMS"—via Twitter

Mariah Carey

“Love & heartfelt prayers go out to Chris Lighty’s family & all of us whose lives he touched. Words cannot express the sadness we share today.”

Diddy

“In shock. R.I.P. Chris Lighty. He Was A Dear Friend Of Mine And I Still Can’t Believe It. Everyone please send your prayers and condolences out to the Lighty family. We Miss You Chris. R.I.P. Chris Lighty…Miss You Bro.”

Russell Simmons

“I am deeply saddened by the loss of a hip-hop hero. Chris Lighty has been a dear friend of mine since he was a kid. Was a brilliant partner in business and I was so proud of all that he had accomplished. He is an amazing example of how a passionate kid from the street can go to the most even-keeled, smart, thoughtful manager in the business and a generous philanthropist. He was loved by everyone who knew him, including me. He will be missed greatly by all of us.”

James Cruz, former VP of Violator

"Still in shock. Some things just don't add up but I have some great memories of the records we broke & the history we made. No team better...RIP Darrell "Baby Chris" Lighty."

Mary J. Blige

"R.I.P. Chris Lighty. Gone way to soon. This is unbelievable. My prayers go out to the Lighty Family. U never know what can send a person over the edge or make them want 2 keep living. take it easy on people."

Missy Elliott

"Chris Lighty U taught me 2 B Fearless! U help build So many Artist Careers. This is such a sad time 4 all the lives u touched."

Larry Mestel, CEO of Primary Wave Music

"We are extremely shocked and sadden by this tragic news. Chris was a friend, business partner and most of all, an icon, role model and true legend of the music and entertainment industry. He will be missed by many and we send love and support to his family."

Quotes compiled from Associated Press, Billboard, GlobalGrind and Twitter.

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