As the news of OG Maco’s untimely demise ripples through the hip-hop community, one can’t help but ask: how do we say goodbye to the voices that resonate so deeply within us? The reality is, it’s never easy to accept that an artist who shaped our playlist—often with their unique blend of passion, pain, and downright catchy beats—has left us far too soon. Last night, as the sun dipped below the horizon on December 26, Maco succumbed to a tragic gunshot wound, leaving his family, friends, and a legion of fans grappling with the weight of this loss. His family shared a statement filled with heartfelt tributes, highlighting a life defined by resilience and creativity. While we navigate through this sorrow, we also remember the vibrant spirit of OG Maco—the artist whose legacy will linger like his unforgettable tracks. So, let’s take a moment to honor his life, his music, and the indelible mark he’s carved in our hearts… because in times like these, music isn’t just a form of escape; it’s a celebration of a life fully lived.
The hip-hop world is in mourning, as OG Maco tragically passed away last night (Thursday, December 26) at a Los Angeles hospital while surrounded by his family. He had been hospitalized for a gunshot wound to the head, and his family has now released a statement on this saddening loss. “With heavy hearts, we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of our beloved Ben, known to the world as OG Maco,” the statement reads. “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.
“While we grieve this immense loss, we also celebrate the extraordinary life he lived – one that will continue to inspire and uplift others,” the statement continued. “Maco’s influence, both as an artist and as a person, will remain forever etched in our hearts. For those who wish to offer condolences, share memories, or connect with the family, please reach out through this account. Your support means more than words can express. To all of Maco’s fans, friends, and supporters: thank you for standing by him throughout his journey. Today, we celebrate a life that was extraordinary in every way. With love and gratitude, the family of OG Maco.”
Previously, OG Maco’s manager and longtime friend Poppa Perc gave fans an update on his condition. “We all wanna thank you for praying for @ogxmaco,” he shared on Instagram. “He’s still fighting and he’s in a more stable condition and it’s better than what he was 2 nights ago. We won’t know [too] much untill Monday for now please keep praying.”
Meanwhile, fans and community members everywhere are currently remembering OG Maco’s art, his craft, his connection with fans, and the great memories that he left behind. While this situation became very confusing for a second due to some misleading reports, fans remained steadfast in their support and sympathies. Although Maco is no longer with us, he will always live on in the hearts and minds of listeners around the world, and it’s time to celebrate this life, honor this legacy, and make sure that it endures.
About The Author
Gabriel Bras Nevares is a staff writer for HotNewHipHop. He joined HNHH while completing his B.A. in Journalism & Mass Communication at The George Washington University in the summer of 2022.
Born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Gabriel treasures the crossover between his native reggaetón and hip-hop news coverage, such as his review for Bad Bunny’s hometown concert in 2024. But more specifically, he digs for the deeper side of hip-hop conversations, whether that’s the “death” of the genre in 2023, the lyrical and parasocial intricacies of the Kendrick Lamar and Drake battle, or the many moving parts of the Young Thug and YSL RICO case.
Beyond engaging and breaking news coverage, Gabriel makes the most out of his concert obsessions, reviewing and recapping festivals like Rolling Loud Miami and Camp Flog Gnaw. He’s also developed a strong editorial voice through album reviews, think-pieces, and interviews with some of the genre’s brightest upstarts and most enduring obscured gems like Homeboy Sandman, Bktherula, Bas, and Devin Malik.
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