Takeoff, part of chart-topping group Migos, has been killed at the age of 28.
The rapper, real name Kirshnik Khari Ball, was shot dead at a bowling alley in Houston, Texas.
He had been playing dice with his bandmate and uncle Quavo when the incident occurred around 2.30am.
The trio, which also includes Offset, were among the headliners of Parklife festival in Manchester last summer.
Migos have regularly been named as one of the most influential bands of their generation, with singles including Bad and Boujee, Versace, and MotorSport with Nicki Minaj and Cardi B.
Local police said that Takeoff and Quavo were part of a private event when someone opened fire.
A man in his 20s was pronounced dead at the scene with a gunshot wound to his head or neck.
He has been identified as Takeoff by media outlets including TMZ, Variety and the Hollywood Reporter.
Tributes have begun to pour in for the musician.
Ja Rule tweeted: “Rip Takeoff… this sh*t has to STOP… sending love to friends and family”
BBC Radio 1Xtra posted: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Migos rapper Takeoff. Our thoughts and sincere condolences to his family, friends and loved ones during this unimaginable time. Rest in Power @1YoungTakeoff”
Rapper Juice Wayne said: “Takeoff, man…
“Offset lost a brother he’ll never get to fix things with. For nothing. Quavo lost his nephew. For nothing. Rap lost a good one. For nothing.
“All this bloodshed. For nothing.
“It’ll never make sense. Never ever. Rest in Peace. Prayers to the family of the fallen.”
Others have been sharing their fondest memories of the young star, including Migos’ appearance on Carpool Karaoke with James Corden.
Featured image: Instagram, @migos