Kendrick Lamar, Lupe Fiasco, Tech N9ne, and more lead tributes to battle rapper Tech 9

Akeem Mickens, better known as Tech 9, was confirmed to have passed away via a Facebook post from fellow battle rapper and friend Buttah From Da Block.

Speaking to XXL, Buttah From Da Block said, "Sadly it's true. We lost a Philadelphia and battle rap legend and pioneer. Unfortunately we haven't fully figured the cause of death. We are praying that it was natural causes. He had no signs of harm done to his body."

Strange Music's Tech N9ne, who has worked with the likes of Logic, Eminem, Joyner Lucas, 2 Chainz, and many others, posted a video confirming he was still alive, and offered condolences to Tech 9's friends and family.

Condolences to the great Tech 9. #Philly pic.twitter.com/RGj3NNJEvZ

— Tech N9ne (@TechN9ne) March 25, 2019

Kendrick Lamar also posted a tribute to the Philadelphia rapper on Twitter, "Condolences to the family of the late great Tech9 of philly. Rest well."

Lupe Fiasco also reacted to the news via Twitter, calling the rapper "one of the most entertaining battle rappers", while Denzel Curry called Tech 9 one of the "funniest and illest battle rappers I’ve seen."

The battle rapper had also gone on to be a presenter for Champion alongside Jay Blac.